Newly constructed (2 year old) house has a window blind that keeps banging whenever there is wind outside (window closed); most likely due to air leakage. When mentioned to the builder, they have come back saying Doors and windows are not air tight products. Is this true? If it is, wouldnt we all end up spending a lot to keep the house warmer during winter? If not, whats the best way to counter what builder is saying ?
Tia
New House - Are Windows Air Tight Products?
Newbie aussie on 13/12/2021 - 16:28
Comments
With windows, there is normally a slot on the bottom to allow water from the window out the bottom. You can see this from the outside normally. This could be the reason.
Otherwise, just the edges, just add some silicon or a weather seal.
I'd expect to notice only strong gust inside.
Probably easiest to get weather seal tape, and stick it in problem areas.
Sounds like the builder hasn't done a great job at the window sealing/installation.
Maybe look at where the gaps are and see if you could DIY the sealing.If the window is warped or installed incorrectly then you have a warranty complaint.
question
- are there other blinds in the house that also bang at the same time or just the one ?
- are there any other windows or doors open at the same time when the banging happens on a windy day?
i ask because, my curtains in the back room move when the front door is open, cross ventilation and air pressure.
Your builder is correct.
Window frames come with an 'air infiltration rating'.
Where i currently rent, one of the windows has the drain holes completely uncovered, rather with a thin strip of rubber that the other ones have. This means that room's window's blinds flap around a lot more than others.Aside from the missing rubber in mine, and maybe in yours too, different styles and materials have different air-leakage. Also installation may be a matter.
OZ windows and doors are normally not air tight, but overseas in some areas/countries they are. So when watching TV reno shows overseas be careful.
Check this thread out for info that is relevant and hopefully helpful:
https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1929382Yeah you need to be careful. I moved into a brand new apartment in London with double glazing. All the vents were closed and I thought nothing of it. 2 months later and the whole wall was mouldy because moisture was trapped; from that point on the vents remained open.
Are Windows Air Tight Products?
Passive house windows are…. But the cheap crap we install in Australia is leaky as can be….. As you have found out!
My house uses iOS
It’s only a problem if it’s leaking around the frame, not the window itself.
Probably be in a bit of trouble if they were air tight, you’d eventually run out of oxygen if you stayed inside too long.
There are small gaps/holes usually, but thats still odd to get enough wind to actually move things inside though.
Your builder is correct but a carefully constructed and finished house will be mostly draught proof.
If not. This is your friend