How to Improve Window Insulation
- 1). Lift your window either up or slide it to the side (depending on type). The sash--the moving window that is pushed/lowered into the window frame--is where most of the heat will escape. Clean the side frame of the sash (the part that is pushed into the window frame) of all dirt and dust and remove any old compressible foam that has lost its flexibility. To test it, simply push the foam in with a finger, and if it doesn't spring back to its original position in a matter of seconds, you need to replace it. Wait for the area to dry completely.
- 2). Roll out the correct length of self-adhesive compressible foam (which usually comes in a roll and can be cut with scissors) and attach it along the entire length of the outside edge of the sash. Push it firmly in place with your hands, making sure that it is stuck in place.
- 3). Remove any old caulk from the outside of the window frame by applying caulk remover with a brush--the instructions on the packaging will tell you how long to leave it on. Then, use a work knife scrape away all existing caulk. Cut the caulk stem at 45 degrees with a work knife. Place the tip of the caulk stem in the window seam--where the window frame meets the house frame--and squeeze the caulk gun trigger. Move the tip of the stem along the seam while squeezing the trigger, until you have caulked the entire seam.
- 4). Wet a finger and smooth the caulk into the seam. Wait 12 hours for the caulk to cure before painting the area. Check the caulk manufacturer guidelines in case you need to wait more than 12 hours.
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