To stop drafts, you’ll need to find leak sources and address them with weatherstripping, sealing, or window replacement. Attleboro homeowners can reduce drafts significantly with proper diagnosis. The right solution depends on where air enters.
To stop drafts, you’ll need to find leak sources and address them with weatherstripping, sealing, or window replacement. Attleboro homeowners can reduce drafts significantly with proper diagnosis. The right solution depends on where air enters.
Here’s how to stop cold air from entering through windows:
- Weatherstripping Replacement — Worn weatherstripping around sashes allows air infiltration. Professional replacement uses correct profiles for your window type. New weatherstripping restores tight seals immediately.
- Caulking Gaps — Gaps between window frames and walls let cold air bypass the window entirely. Exterior caulking seals these joints effectively. Interior caulking helps but exterior sealing matters more.
- Lock Engagement — Window locks pull sashes tight against weatherstripping. Unlocked windows don’t seal properly even when closed. Always engage locks during heating season.
- Storm Window Addition — Storm windows create an insulating air pocket over existing windows. This approach works well for historic homes with original windows. Storms add another barrier against infiltration.
- Window Film Application — Temporary plastic film reduces drafts on problem windows. This is a band-aid solution rather than permanent fix. Window replacement addresses root causes better.
- Full Replacement — Windows with failed seals, warped frames, or damaged components need replacement. How to seal windows from rain and cold becomes simple with new windows. Upgrading to an energy efficient window eliminates draft problems permanently.
| Solution | Effectiveness | Cost | Longevity |
| Weatherstripping | Good | Low | 1-3 years |
| Caulking | Good | Low | 1-3 years |
| Storm Windows | Very Good | Medium | 3-5 years |
| Window Film | Fair | Very Low | Seasonal |
| Window Replacement | Excellent | Higher | 25-30 years |
Window Draft Solutions Compared
Best Overall: Window replacement eliminates draft problems permanently while improving efficiency.
Best Temporary Fix: Quality weatherstripping replacement provides immediate relief at low cost.
Worst Approach: Ignoring drafts. Energy waste compounds daily throughout heating season.
Ready to eliminate cold drafts for good? Contact Coastal Windows & Exteriors for a free in-home assessment. Coastal Windows & Exteriors delivers expert window solutions with 7,000+ installations across MA, NH, ME.
Request a free windows estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
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Last Updated: May 2026
Sources:
- Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can save homeowners over $500 per year on energy bills. Energy Star Residential Windows, Doors & Skylights, Energy Star’s product guidance on certified windows, doors, and skylights and their associated energy savings. (Accessed May 2026)
