How To Add Soundproofing And Weather Resistance To Basement Windows
Posted on: 15 June 2017
Are your basement windows becoming less soundproof and weather resistant overtime? Does it sound like they are open when you walk by? There are a lot of things that can happen over the years to reduce the soundproofing of your windows. Luckily, you can usually do a few simple jobs that will increase the soundproofing and weather resistance of your basement windows. Since the basement is usually the loudest and coldest part of a home, this is a very useful upgrade.
Check Where the Glass Meets the Sash
There are two main components on a normal window that could be the cause of your sound problems. First, inspect within the actual window sash, where the glass pane is attached to the frame. The style of the connection between the glass and the sash depends on the sash material. For instance, glass in wooden windows is attached with glue and caulk. However, glass is attached to vinyl windows through a technique that basically melts them together. When it comes to loose glass panes, the problem is most prevalent on wooden windows. The wood can expand and contract over time, causing the glass to shift and become loose.
The easiest way to fix this problem is to reinforce the seam between your glass and wood using a waterproof adhesive caulk. For the best results, scrape away the existing called with a putty knife. This way you have a clean surface so you can apply a strong new caulk line.
Check the Frames and Tracks
Next, you want to check the tracks and frames of your movable windows. First, make sure that they close all the way. However, even if your windows close all the way, they could still have insulation issues. The best solution is to add some felt weatherstripping wherever you can. This is a simple way to close any gaps where air is escaping and letting cold air and sound into your home.
Adding weatherstripping to your windows is a simple project that will probably cost less than a couple of dollars per window. The weatherstripping can be applied just like a sticker. Make sure the surface is clean before you apply the felt.
These are simple things that you can do to the inside of your basement windows. If you have more severe issues on the outside of your windows, you should check them out too. Once both sides of your windows are repaired, you can enjoy better weather resistance and soundproofing. For more information, talk to a professional like JF Improvements.
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