Drafts, foggy glass, or rising energy bills? These are clear signs your windows aren’t sealed properly—learn how to spot and solve the problem.
Are you noticing drafts or foggy glass in your home? These are common signs your windows aren’t sealed properly. Here’s how to identify the issue and protect your home
If you are concerned that your windows are failing, then there are a few things you can do to try and help yourself here. Take a look below to find out more.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows aren’t to be confused with the normal condensation you’d expect from a window. Every living space fluctuates in humidity over time. Even newer homes, which may have special HVAC measures in place, will experience regular moisture changes.
A lot of this comes down to the differences in temperature, from indoors to outdoors. When you shower, workout or even cook in your home, you may notice that there is even more condensation. It’s also normal for pets and plants to contribute to moist air.
Window condensation isn’t necessarily a sign that your window seal is failing, but if you have a lot of foggy moisture build-up between your panes of glass, then this can be a big sign.
The inert glass will act as an insulator most of the time, but if you have a broken seal, then moisture can get wrapped inside the panes. This can lead to your windows appearing foggy, and sometimes they may be impossible to clean.
Drafts Around the Window
The best way for you to locate a failed seal would be for you to carry out the wet hand test. You need to do this around the whole window so you can see if there is an issue. To do this, simply wet your hand and then hold it over the windowpane.
You should not feel any outside air drafting in. Even when the weather outside is very bad, you shouldn’t feel anything. You should also not see any frost on the inside of your windows either.
It’s normal for hardware to be cold as if it is made out of metal then it will conduct heat, but outside of this, you shouldn’t be seeing things like this. If you do notice things like frost or extreme temperatures then this is a clear indicator that you may need to book in for a window replacement.
Irregular temperatures
Another big sign that you might want to consider getting a window replacement is the overall temperature of your home. If you feel so cold that you need to put on an extra pair of socks or if you feel uncomfortable, then your home’s energy efficiency may be to blame.
You may also be witnessing your home’s energy bills going up every month, which is again the last thing you need. One thing you should check here is your home’s energy rating. If you have very old windows then this is probably the first thing that has to go as there is a very good chance that the seal has blown.
If you don’t do anything about this now, then you may find that the issue only gets worse and that your bills go up as a result. Try and keep this in mind if you want to start seeing a difference around the home.
Signs of Failed Window Seals: What to Look For
Identifying signs your windows aren’t sealed properly, like drafts or foggy glass, can help you maintain energy efficiency and comfort in your home.
Addressing these issues promptly—whether through seal repairs or window replacements—ensures better insulation, lower energy bills, and a cozier living space. Take action today to protect your home and wallet.
Jessi is the creative mind behind The Coffee Mom, a popular blog that combines parenting advice, travel tips, and a love for all things Disney. As a trusted Disney influencer and passionate storyteller, Jessi’s authentic insights and relatable content resonate with readers worldwide.