New Windows not Airtight

BalboBiggins

I renovated my home recently and can feel drafts when I put my hands up to closed windows. The window company have come back and investigated but said that the windows are airtight. Is there any company that will test or fix this issue?

Lumen

Blower door/smoke testing.

There are companies that specialise in this.

893bet

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058291762/new-windows-not-airtight

Was an Airtightness membrane and tape used when installing the windows?

sydthebeat

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120460725#Comment_120460725

The OP is saying the windows themselves don't feel airtight, nothing about the opening being airtight.

What style of window? Ie sash, casement, tilt and turn etc?

Did you get test certificates for the window product?

Where were they made?

What material are they made from?

BalboBiggins

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120460725#Comment_120460725

It was meant to be but the builders were a disaster so I don't know.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120460752#Comment_120460752

Yes we got a detailed cert from the window company. They are casement windows. I'm not sure if it's the window seal or around the windows as there are small cracks where the windows meet the windowboard.

MicktheMan

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120462505#Comment_120462505

when it's windy out, say wind from the west, go to the west elevation windows and apply duct tape to the window board / window frame gap and see if the draught magically disappears. If it does then there is airleakage between the board and frame. Keep checking until you know what's going on (and only do this test on the pressure side of the house). You can also use an incense stick to find air leakage.

BalboBiggins

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120462725#Comment_120462725

Thanks for this. If this is the cause, is there a way to seal it without ripping the window out?

sydthebeat

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120464260#Comment_120464260

caulk is your best friend.....