Weatherproofing Your Single Pane Windows

Weatherproofing Single Pane Windows

If you live in a warmer climate, or you have an older home, you may have single pane windows. This may not be a big problem, but it might be a good idea to weatherproof them. Doing so can make your home less drafty, keep you warmer in winter, and make your home more energy efficient. Some people choose to keep single pane windows for historical accuracy, or because they love their simplicity, and others are concerned that weatherproofing the windows won’t be worth the expense. Let’s take a look at some inexpensive ways to weatherproof your windows in the short term, and longer-term methods if you decide that it’s time to update your single pane windows permanently.

Why Weatherproofing Matters

Single pane windows are no longer very common, because they are not very energy efficient. They tend to let in drafts, which cause heat gain and loss, and adds up to about 25 to 30 percent of your energy costs, according to data from the U.S. Department of Energy. Even new windows can leak, but older, single pane windows tend to be especially drafty. With only one layer of glass, they do a poor job of keeping the interior temperature comfortable, and they cause your heating and cooling system to work harder than it should, wasting energy. They are also easier to break than windows with more layers of glass, and they do a poor job of keeping out noise, which can be a problem if you live in a noisy area. Additionally, condensation tends to develop on single pane windows, leading to mold growth, water damage, and poor air quality in your home. For all these reasons, it is a good idea to consider replacing or at least weatherproofing your single pane windows.

Inspect Before Insulating Single Pane Windows

What if you don’t think your windows are causing any issues? There are some easy ways to see if they need to be insulated or weatherproofed.

• Look and feel. Look around the window frame, glass, and seals, looking for any damage, gaps, or cracks. Run your hand around the frame, to see if you can feel air coming inside through the window. Do this on a cold or windy day, or dampen your hand first, to make it more sensitive to the air. If you can feel air coming through the frame, it’s time to insulate.
• Follow the light. You can also look at the window on a sunny day, noticing if light is shining through the window frame. You can do this with a flashlight, if you forget to do it during daylight hours.
• Watch the smoke. This method is somewhat fun and dramatic. Light a candle, and move it around the window frame. If the smoke from the flame is sucked towards the frame or changes direction, you have a gap that needs to be repaired. Want to do this with more smoke? You can do the same test using incense.

Short-Term Weatherproofing Solutions and Single Pane Storm Windows

Once you know which of your windows are not functioning properly, it’s easy to take some precautions to insulate them. One option that people with single pane windows sometimes choose is adding storm windows. These are essentially an additional window that goes over the original window, either on the inside or outside. This may be a good solution in the winter, but there are other, simpler weatherproofing solutions you can manage as a DIY project.

• Start by addressing any gaps or cracks. Obviously, a window with a crack should be repaired or replaced. However, to keep the crack from spreading until you can call in a professional, you can use weather sealing tape to seal them temporarily. A coat of clear nail polish over the crack can accomplish the same thing, and should hold for a few months. For gaps around the window, you can use caulk or foam rubber weather sealing tape, to help protect against drafts. Make sure your window is very clean before you use either of these.
• Apply an insulating film. Window film is inexpensive, and it can help keep the outside air out of your interiors. You just cut it to fit your window and then apply it, making sure to smooth it out and get rid of any air bubbles. You can use a hairdryer to give it a tighter seal to the window. If you can’t find window film in the store, which can happen during the winter months, bubble wrap makes a good alternative. The bubble wrap with the bigger bubbles works surprisingly well for insulating your windows.
• Use window treatments to insulate your windows. Heavy, insulating curtains can do a good job of providing insulation, or you can double up, using both curtains and blinds. This is good for keeping you comfortable, but remember, it doesn’t keep the air from entering the house, so it’s only a temporary solution.

How to Insulate Single Pane Windows for the Long-Term

Secondary glazing is one way to insulate single pane windows. This involves installing a second pane of glass into the window, and this will keep drafts to a minimum. However, it doesn’t completely rectify the problem, and can actually cause problems with mold and damp. The best way to make your windows more energy efficient in the long term is to replace your old, single pane windows with double glazed windows, which will improve your energy efficiency, insulate against outside noise, and keep your home more comfortable all year long.

Maintenance Tips for Lasting Efficiency

If you are not ready to replace your windows yet, keep them in good shape by regularly checking window seals, weatherstripping, and caulking. Check the frame for damage, especially if you have wooden windows. Keep your windows wind and watertight by replacing worn or damaged parts as quickly as possible.

When to Consider Upgrading from Single Pane Wood Windows

Household windows should last for about 20 years, on average. If yours are nearing the end of their natural lifespan, it may be time to think about replacing them. If you have single pane wood windows, you can upgrade them to a more durable material, like aluminum, fiberglass, or vinyl. Even if you are not sure of the age of your windows, there are some signs that they need to be replaced. If the frames are deteriorating, the windows are damaged, you’ve recently had security issues, or your windows are drafty, call for an estimate for new windows.

For Energy Efficient Single Pane Windows, Contact J&M Windows & Glass

For over 40 years, J&M Windows & Glass has been providing quality, reliable services, at reasonable prices, to our customers in San Jose, California. We offer a wide range of glass and mirror services, including new and replacement windows and installation, shower doors and shower door installation, mirrors, skylights, and patio doors. When you work with J&M Windows and Glass, you can expect to work with a friendly, knowledgeable team, providing the highest level of customer service as well as the top products from leading brands. Contact us through our website for more information or to set up a consultation, or visit our showroom to learn more about our products and services.