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Three Ways to Fix Drafty Windows

Old houses are well loved, but the windows they were built with aren’t as energy efficient as those in modern homes. In fact, they’re well known for having drafty windows. Fortunately, there are a couple of different options available to fix this problem until you’re ready to replace those old deteriorated windows.

Install a Spring-Balancing System:   When you remove the old weight system and replace it with the modern spring balancing system, your windows will stay more tightly closed. When you do this, don’t forget to insulate the weight bays as well. Many hardware stores carry these types of systems for homeowners to install.

Replacing Ropes and Locks:   A relatively simple solution can be to replace the old ropes with copper chains. In addition to cutting down on drafts, there will be less rattling as well. When you do this, it’s a good idea to replace the lock as well, to ensure a closer fit between upper and lower sashes.

Weatherstripping:   When adding weatherstripping to the window, you can keep the old weight system, but the following steps need to be taken.

  1. Pry the stops which keep the sash in the window off and remove the lower sash
  2. Open weight ports, remove weights and cut the cotton cords. These supports will be replaced with copper chains later.
  3. Carefully remove parting beads and the upper sash.
  4. In the rail of the lower slash, cut a groove in which to put some nylon weatherstripping.
  5. Spring bronze weatherstripping should be used to line the upper half of the bottom sash. Nail this stripping in place and score with putty knife as a seal for the top sash.
  6. Replace upper sash in window and apply bronze weatherstripping for the bottom.

Any of these three options will increase your home’s comfort while lowering energy costs at the same time. They’re simple enough for anyone to do.  Keep in mind that if your home has the original windows (or very old ones), even though you are able to cut down on the drafts by following these tips, they aren’t as energy-efficient as modern high-tech replacement windows.  Many window companies how manufacture good-quality windows which replicate the look of original historic home windows.

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Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.

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