Drafty windows can make your house feel uncomfortable and spike your energy bill. Fortunately, a drafty window typically doesn’t require full window replacement, said Constantine Anest, owner of Ethos Roofing & Restoration in Denver.
Anest explained that drafty windows are often caused by gaps or cracks in the window frame, worn-out weather stripping, or damaged seals. Fluctuating temperatures, poor installation, or settling of the home often lead to shifting of the window frames, which is the cause of drafts entering.
Common causes of drafty windows include worn seals or gaps around the window frame. If professional repair is needed, expect to pay $100–$300 per window.
Most drafts come from small gaps around the window frame. However, drafts can also result from seal failure, which is the breakdown of the airtight seal that holds insulating gas between double- or triple-pane windows.
Related: Understanding the R-410A Refrigerant Shift
Applying caulk and new weather stripping can often stop drafts. Depending on the cause of the air leak, you may only need a few supplies and less than an hour to remedy the problem.
Common supplies for fixing a drafty window include window insulation film, gap filler, caulk, and weather stripping. Caulking seals your window’s perimeter, blocking pesky drafts from sneaking in around the trim.
Weather stripping helps block drafts where the window opens and closes — and it helps provide a tight seal when the window is shut. Two of the most common types of weather stripping for windows are V-strip and adhesive-backed foam.
To install weather stripping on a double-hung window, thoroughly clean the window sash and frame, apply V-stripping along the sides of the window, and apply adhesive foam tape to the bottom edge of the sash.
Related: Giant Challenges in New 2026 Book
But if the glass is cracked or the frame is warped, you may need professional repairs, or even a full replacement, to fix the root of the problem.
Routine maintenance is the best way to keep windows efficient and prevent future drafts. Keep up with these few simple tasks: regularly wash the interior and exterior of your windows, inspect the windows once or twice a year, and make small repairs as soon as you see them.
If you’ve sealed gaps and replaced weather stripping but still feel a draft, it’s time to call a pro. While minor fixes are DIY-friendly, persistent drafts may indicate frame issues or that it’s time for a full window replacement.
They will assess the situation and provide a solution.
