Good tip with the hairdryer—never thought of that one. A couple other quick things:
- Check the latch mechanism; sometimes windows aren't fully closing even if they look shut.
- Temporary fix: painter's tape around edges works surprisingly well in a pinch (been there, done that...).
Good luck!
Painter's tape is a solid quick fix—used it myself a few winters back. Couple other things you might check:
- Weatherstripping condition: sometimes it's worn or compressed, letting drafts sneak in.
- Window alignment: older windows can shift slightly over time, creating gaps. Adjusting hinges or tracks can help.
Sounds like you're on the right track though... these little fixes can make a surprising difference. Good luck!
Painter's tape did the trick for me too, but yeah, weatherstripping was my real culprit. Replaced mine last year and honestly couldn't believe the difference. Ever tried those insulating window film kits? Curious if they're worth the hassle...
"Ever tried those insulating window film kits? Curious if they're worth the hassle..."
I've experimented with those film kits before, and honestly, I'm not entirely convinced they're worth the effort. Installation can be finicky—getting the film smooth without wrinkles or bubbles takes patience, and even then, the aesthetic isn't great. Personally, I've found thermal curtains to be a simpler and more effective solution. They block drafts surprisingly well and don't require the same meticulous application process. Might be worth considering if you're looking for an alternative...
I've seen mixed results with those film kits myself. They can definitely help if you're patient enough to get them on right, but yeah, the wrinkles and bubbles can be frustrating. Have you checked if the drafts are mostly coming from gaps around the window frame itself? Sometimes a quick run of weatherstripping or even caulking around the edges can make a noticeable difference without messing with films or curtains. Thermal curtains are great too, especially if you're looking for something quick and easy to install. Either way, don't get discouraged—drafty windows are super common, and there's usually a simple fix that works for your situation.
Good points about the caulking and weatherstripping—those have helped me a lot too. One thing I've noticed is that older windows sometimes leak air through the sash itself, not just around the frame. Have you checked if that's happening with yours?
"One thing I've noticed is that older windows sometimes leak air through the sash itself, not just around the frame."
Yeah, good catch on that. I've definitely felt cold air coming straight through the sash on some of my older windows too. I ended up using those clear plastic insulation kits you shrink with a hairdryer—worked surprisingly well, even though it's kind of a pain to put up. Have you tried those yet, or found something better for sealing the sash itself?
Those plastic shrink-wrap kits do help, but yeah, they're a hassle and sometimes don't hold up all winter. If you're looking for something more permanent and less fiddly, you might want to try weatherstripping tape specifically designed for window sashes. It's usually foam or rubber-based and compresses nicely when you close the window, sealing off drafts pretty effectively.
Here's what I'd recommend: first, clean the sash edges thoroughly—dust and grime can stop the adhesive from sticking properly. Next, measure and cut the weatherstripping carefully to fit each side of the sash. Peel off the backing slowly as you press it into place, making sure it's snug against the surface. Close and latch your window firmly afterward to help it set properly.
I've done this on quite a few older windows for clients, and it usually makes a noticeable difference without costing much or taking too long. Plus, unlike plastic film, you can still open your windows easily if there's a warm spell mid-winter...which is always nice.
"Plus, unlike plastic film, you can still open your windows easily if there's a warm spell mid-winter...which is always nice."
Definitely agree with this. Those plastic films drove me nuts last winter—one warm day and I felt trapped in a greenhouse. Another quick tip: check the window locks themselves. If they're loose or worn, tightening or replacing them can pull the sash tighter against the frame, reducing drafts surprisingly well. Worked wonders for me on an older window upstairs...cheap fix too.
Plastic film definitely isn't perfect, but honestly, I've found it pretty manageable if you leave one or two windows uncovered in rooms you use most. That way, if there's a random warm day, you can still crack open a window without feeling trapped. I get the frustration though—been there myself.
About the window locks tip... tightening them can help, but from my experience, it's usually not enough on its own. Older windows often warp slightly over time, and even with tight locks, you might still get drafts around the edges. I've had better luck combining lock adjustments with some weatherstripping tape along the sides and bottom of the sash. It's cheap and easy to apply, and it seals up those tiny gaps nicely without making the window impossible to open later on. Just my two cents from dealing with drafty windows in an old house for years...