Trick I learned for checking window seals during showings

I used to just open and close windows to see if they felt sticky, but last month a contractor buddy told me to hold a lighter near the seal and watch if the flame flickers. Found out 3 out of 4 windows in this 1990s house had draft issues I would have missed. Has anyone else tried this or got another quick inspection hack?

2 comments

2 Comments

uma_reed2613d ago

A lighter near the seal? That sounds terrifying honestly.

james67212d ago

Lighter trick works fine if you're careful... just hold it steady and don't leave it there more than a second or two. I've done it on a bunch of older houses and it catches drafts you'd never feel with your hand. Another quick one is running your finger along the seal on a cold day - you'll feel the cold air before you see it. For those 1990s windows especially, check the bottom corners where the sealant always goes first.