Draftiness with Vinyl Windows

[mrskag]

We had vinyl windows installed a few months ago. They were installed over the existing aluminum frames. This winter has been unseasonably cooler (for southern California), and we have noticed a draft in our home ever since.

Anyone else experience this? The company that installed the windows doesn't seem to have a clue as to what to do.

[HomeSealed]

The draft has precisely zero to do with what material the window is made of, and everything to do with the quality of the product and installation. Could be a poor installation causing the window not to seal well, or could just be a poor window to start with. Windows are actually tested and rated for air infiltration performance.

[Windows on Washington]

+1

Sounds like a "frame jump" type of installation and if they do not get that connection sealed back to the home, they will leak around that location as well if they are not installed properly. If the window is out of level, plumb, or square...the components will neither align, fit, or seal properly.

Have you called the installer to discuss your concerns and can you see any visible drafts (i.e. smoke pencil)?

[collin]

You could try using a draft snake. It is a draft blocker made from cheap filler materials to keep it from rolling around. The snake is placed near the foot of the window to keep the cold air from seeping in.Here is a blog I found online that listed out some other ways in which you can keep the draft out. Though the draft snake is comparatively more effective. You could either buy it from the store or even make it at home.