Many if us that own older homes struggle with trying to keep them warm in colder weather. Drafts let cold air in and warm air out. We do what we can to fix this and are always looking for new ways to conserve energy. Everyone can save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation. If your windows are not as efficient as they used to be, read on. The following is a list of repairs that can be done to help those older sash windows do their job.
Your windows are made up of many different parts. The panes, framing, and trim all work together to insulate your home while still offering you a view of the outside. If one or more of the components has deteriorated or is not working properly, your window will not seal against the elements, causing leakage and ultimately costing you money.
Window caulking gets old and hard over time. When it is applied new, it is soft and rubbery, somewhat like bubble gum. If your caulking has dried up and is cracked, it may be time to replace it. Carefully pry the old caulking out of the window. In some instances heat may be used but be sure to not break the glass with the heat. New caulking can be bought in a can. Simply scoop out a portion of it and roll it in your hands to warm it. It will become pliable like clay. Form it into a rope and press it into where you have removed the old. Or, go the easy route and buy it is already pre-formed ropes.
The wooden framing on your windows can also become split or warped over time. This can be removed and repaired or replaced with new. Put caulk on the back of the framing before applying it back to your window. This will create a nice seal when you press it in place. Just another way of sealing up your window as you go.
Brush insulation is what is used inside sash windows, where the window slides up and down. These brushes become worn and loose their bristles. But they can also be replaces, although it is a more time consuming job. They can be found in hardware stores or places that sell building supplies. Buy them in lengths that will reach all the way from you window sill to the top of the window for optimum performance.
Your window trim is more than just a cosmetic, it actually helps to seal and insulate as well. If it is warped or split, replacement may be necessary. Use a bead of caulk on this also just as you did on the framing. And a rope of window caulk around the outside edges creates a double seal. Finally, repaint if needed.
For those who rent and don't want to invest a lot of cash in a house they do not own, window insulation film is a great idea. These film kits are available in many sizes and can be cut down to fit any window. They are almost invisible when applied. Simply tack them up around the edge of your window and then use a common blow dryer to heat up the film. The film will shrink with the heat, causing a nice, tight seal that also adds another layer of window pane.
Whether you want to go all the way with your repair or do a quick fix, any little bit will help. When you see that you save money on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation, you will be glad you did.
Get inside info on how to save big bucks on heating bills with DIY sash window insulation now in our sash window draught proofing and sash window refurbishment guide.