How to Make Windows Airtight for Allergies

Keep your window airtight to reduce the ability for allergens to enter your home.

According to the Allergy Foundation of America, between 50 and 60 million people suffer from such allergy symptoms as sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. The source of these symptoms is pollen, which can enter your home in a number of ways. For example, windows that are not airtight will allow pollen to breeze right into your living quarters. Homeowners must seal the windows to prevent allergy symptoms from developing.

Things You'll Need

• Putty knife
• HEPA filter vacuum
• Caulk gun
• Window insulator kit

Instructions

1. Pull the window down and lock it. Simply locking the window will draw the sash closer to the window frame, creating a better seal.

2. Remove any old caulk or paint residue around the frame of the window with a putty knife. Old caulk loses its seal and may be the reason the pollen is able to enter your home.

3. Vacuum around the windows with a HEPA filter equipped vacuum once the old caulk or paint residue has been removed. This will not only clean up the area, but get rid of any pollen that may currently be residing near the window.

4. Replace the old caulk with new silicone caulk. Caulk guns make this home project doable, even for beginners in home maintenance. The website Arizona Builders' Zone recommends caulking on a dry day that is at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Cover your window with plastic from a window insulator kit. Double-sided sticky strips are placed around the outside of the window. The plastic sticks to the tape and then is tightened with a hair dryer. This creates an additional seal to stop pollen-filled air from entering your home during allergy season.

Tips & Warnings

• Check to ensure that your current windows meet energy efficient standards. Windows are sold with two values. Your R-value should fall between 0.9 and 3, while your U-value should fall between 1.1 and 0.3. Consider replacing your windows if they do not meet these energy efficient standards.

• Vacuum frequently with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter during allergy season. This will help get rid of any pollen that was tracked in through the front door.

References

• Arizona Builders' Zone: How to Make Your Windows More Energy Efficient
• Pioneer Thinking: Are Pollens Invading Your Home
• Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation: Fighting Asthma in Your House