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Air Leakage 101: Essential Facts That You Need to Know

When looking at your choices of replacement windows, it’s important to consider things such as solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and U-factor. These ratings can tell you enough about a window’s energy efficiency. But apart from these two major considerations, you should also look into a window’s air leakage rating.

Air Leakage

Why Is Air Infiltration Important

It’s a common misconception that new windows shouldn’t be letting any air inside your home. After all, aren’t replacement windows supposed to get rid of draft problems? While it’s a fact that new windows can help solve draft issues in your home, this does not mean that air won’t be able to pass through the windows. It does not mean that your new windows would actually be letting huge amounts of air into your home either.

Air leakage, or air infiltration, is simply the measurement of air that passes through the window itself. This is usually determined prior to installation, and it must be maintained once the window has been installed in order to prevent drafts. 

How to Fix Air Leaks

If you suspect there are drafts or air infiltration issues in your home, it’s best to have a professional carry out a thorough inspection. Typically, such problems in windows or sliding patio doors can be fixed by sealing the leaks.

For windows, caulking and new weatherstripping can make a big difference and really tighten up your old windows. Meanwhile, for doors, it’s best to update the old weatherstripping.

In severe cases where sealing might no longer work, replacing your windows or doors would likely be necessary. Consult experts so that you can get a comprehensive view of your options.

Renewal by Andersen® of St. Louis is a local company that offers a range of replacement windows as well as sliding patio doors and French doors. With our knowledge and expertise, we can guarantee materials with excellent quality and top-notch craftsmanship. 

Call us at (314) 332-2364, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We serve homeowners in St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding communities.

Reviews

"The installation crew was very professional and answered what questions I had. And they cleaned up when they were finished. We're very pleased with our windows & patio doors. Highly recommend Renewl by Anderson."

Pamela D
Feb 13, 2023

"Very pleased with installation of six windows and a ProVia entry door. I love the look of the windows and door. I am pleased that my wife is thrilled with the look of the door. She is very pleased that the bronze color fits in well with the color of the brick."

Terry S
Feb 8, 2023

"I just had my Renewal by Andersen windows installed and couldn’t be happier, the entire process went very smoothly. The windows are high quality and look great. But the installers Roy, Zack and Jordan were the stars, they introduced themselves upon arrival walked me thru everything they were going to do and when they finished took me to each window to make sure I was completely satisfied. They were clean and courteous and I would definitely recommend and have them work in my home again."

BOB B
Feb 6, 2023

"Wonderful experience with knowledgeable, competent employees. We had Andersen windows in a previous house & didn’t even consider anything else this time. After replacing our patio door almost two years ago, we replaced all our windows this year. What a difference over builder-grade windows, especially in the really cold temperatures we’ve had this year. Andersen windows may be a little more expensive than other brands, but they are top quality."

Susan S
Jan 31, 2023

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