A draughty window can be a nightmare. If the sound of cold air travelling through doesn’t make your head hurt enough, the energy bill at the end of the month certainly will.
Even a tiny draught can cost you serious money to replace the heat, and let’s be honest, the price of energy is high enough.
So, let’s find out about draught proofing so you don’t get left in the cold… literally.
Is Draught Proofing Necessary?
It depends on a few things, Firstly is whether or not you have a draught through your window. If there are obvious signs that your draught-proof windows leak, you’ll need to fix or replace them.
The most important consideration is the age of your windows. If you still have windows from before 2002, it might be time for a replacement.
This is because regulations surrounding draught-proofing windows have changed to improve energy efficiency.
Lastly, if you have older windows that have deteriorated over time, upgrading to a more modern option might help prevent a future issue.
That’s where aluminium windows can save you time and money. Our aluminium windows are draught-proof, weather resistant, and highly durable.
You can say goodbye to draught proofing all together
We have the answer if you’re wondering how aluminium windows are made.
Why You Should Care About Draught-Proofing Windows
A draught from your windows can cause a big problem come wintertime. The UK is notorious for the frosty breeze in winter.
If this comes in through your window, attempting to heat the room from the inside is pointless if the draught brings the temperature down.
The whole point of modern window designs and features is to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible.
This means locking in heat and keeping cold weather out through insulation.
Ensuring this will decrease your load on the planet and save you money on your energy bill.
Locating a Window Draught
Using a candle is the simplest way to detect a draught without buying expensive draught-detecting machines.
You light the candle and hold it while slowly moving around the window edges. The flame will move if a draught indicates incoming cold air.
Which Windows Need Draught-Proofing?
Older windows and those that don’t have special glazing are generally more prone to draughts.
Luckily, triple and double-glazed windows exist. They’ve almost eliminated the need for draught-proofing windows in the UK.
We’ve covered you if you want to move to triple or double glazing. We have an array of aluminium doors and windows that will guarantee you peace of mind.
Our products not only hold your glazed glass in place but seal so tight that draughts will be a thing of the past.
If they aren’t, you may need to change the glass in your aluminium window to achieve higher efficiency.
You can view the full range here. You’ll find draught-proof options, including:
- Aluminium bifold doors.
- Aluminium French doors.
- Aluminium patio doors.
- Aluminium windows.
- Roof lanterns.
Guide to Draught Proofing Aluminium Windows
If you have correctly made aluminium windows with triple or double glazing, then you shouldn’t need to draught-proof windows.
However, life happens, and if you’re in a bind where an aluminium window expert isn’t available to assist, then here’s what you can do.
For non-opening windows:
If the window doesn’t open, then you’ll need to use a silicone-based product like gunned silicone sealant to fill in the seal around the window.
So, here’s what to do:
- Clean around the window.
- Find openings where the draught is coming through.
- Apply a release agent (a silicone-free compound that prevents the silicone from sticking). Spread it to the window and where it attaches to the window frame.
- Apply your silicone.
- Cement can also be applied but can also be excessive, so you will likely need to know how to remove cement from your aluminium window.
For windows that open:
To draught-proof windows that open, you need to fill in the gap between the window and the window frame; this requires a strip to fix.
You get different types of self-adhesive strips, including plastic strips, foam strips, and metal strips. But we’re focusing on aluminium, so metal is your best option here.
It will come with some wipers on the strip to improve your insulation. Before you head out to your local hardware store, you need to measure the window and frame so that the strips fit correctly.
The strips are self-adhesive, meaning no need for tools, silicones, or glues.
Will Draught Proofing Make a Difference?
Draught-proofing your windows will make a massive difference if you have a significant draught. The heat that leaks through can be enormous, often meaning you won’t need to test for a draught.
Why Aluminium Windows Are the Best for Draughts
Aluminium is a solid material that can take on a lot of wear and tear. It is, after all, a metal.
Since it is so robust, there is less chance of small instances affecting your window’s draught-blocking ability.
Additionally, aluminium can hold up hefty glass. Meaning you can select the thickest triple-glazed glass on the market, and aluminium will hold it in place.
Our aluminium windows and doors all come with a weather-resistant seal.
But, if this article hasn’t convinced you why aluminium is the best way to go, then here are reasons why aluminium doors are the best choice.
FAQ
Do aluminium windows need draught-proofing?
Generally, no. Properly installed and well-made aluminium windows don’t require draught proofing because they are made to fit. Aluminium is durable and shouldn’t have a draught as it is weather-resistant and comes with a seal.
What should I do if my aluminium window has a draught?
If you’ve had your aluminium doors installed by a professional, you will need to call the service provider so they can come out and have a look at the problem. It’s not just about fixing the issue but also about maintaining the warranty. We offer a ten-year warranty on all our aluminium products.
Do glazed windows cause a draught?
No, glazing your windows will not cause a draught. These added protective layers should prevent draughts from getting through. But, having these extra protective layers can sometimes lead to a sealant issue if the glazing or laminate hasn’t been appropriately set during manufacturing.
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