Why do windows in the new Lithuanian project sometimes let in drafts

Why windows in a new Lithuanian project sometimes feel drafty

Residents of new apartment buildings often notice drafts near closed windows. This can result from several factors: installation issues, compression seals, building movements, or pressure differences in the building. Understanding the likely causes helps to choose the right fix — from simple adjustments to professional resealing.

Common causes of drafts

Incorrect installation and an uneven mounting joint. Poorly filled or damaged mounting foam leaves small channels for air.
Worn or improperly seated seals. EPDM or rubber gaskets can lose elasticity or be installed with insufficient compression.
Sash adjustment problems. Multi-point hardware requires correct alignment and pressure; if misadjusted, the sash may not press evenly to the frame.
Gaps around sills and reveals. Surface-level finishing can hide gaps inside the installation seam.
Building settlement or construction movement. New buildings sometimes shift slightly during the first months, loosening joints.
Air pressure differentials in the building. Ventilation shafts, stairwells, and exhaust systems create flows that highlight even tiny leaks.
Faulty drainage or sill slope. Poorly executed water runoff details can lead to need for later interventions that open pathways for air.

How to locate the leak

Visual inspection: check seal condition, look for cracks in plastering or exposed foam.
Candle or lighter test: move a flame along seams — disturbances show airflow (take safety precautions).
Paper test: slide a strip of paper between sash and frame; if it slips freely, the pressure/fit is inadequate.
Thermal camera: identifies cold spots and leakage paths quickly.
Professional blower-door test: measures whole-building airtightness and pinpoints problem zones.

DIY fixes

Adjust hardware: most PVC windows allow tightening or shifting hinges and striker plates.
Replace seals: buy matching EPDM or foam gasket profiles and install them in place of degraded seals.
Reseal visible joints with silicone or polyurethane sealant; clean and dry surfaces first.
Clean drainage slots and ensure the sill slope is not obstructed.

When to call professionals

If the mounting seam needs replacement or anchors are loose — professional reinstallation is recommended.
For geometric frame distortions or persistent drafts after DIY fixes — replacement parts or re-mounting may be necessary.
For precise diagnostics and measurement of air leakage — use certified testing services (blower door, thermal imaging).

Prevention and recommendations

Order windows and installation from reputable suppliers with written acceptance procedures.
At handover, check sash compression, seal condition, and mounting seam quality; get it in an acceptance act.
Allow adhesives and foams to fully cure before final finishing to avoid hidden shrinkage.
Annual checks and seasonal hardware adjustments help prevent future drafts.

FAQ — Short answers

1. Can I stop a draft myself? Often yes — for seal replacement or hardware adjustment. If the problem is the mounting seam, call a pro.

2. How much does it cost to fix? Small fixes (seal replacement, adjustment) are inexpensive. Re-mounting or part replacement costs more; a site estimate is needed.

3. How quickly will I feel the improvement? Replacing seals and tightening hardware gives instant results; resealing seams needs curing time.

4. Can drafts be fully eliminated? With proper design, installation and maintenance, air leakage can be reduced to minimal levels.

5. What about ventilation? Perfect airtightness without controlled ventilation can cause humidity issues. Consider mechanical ventilation with heat recovery for energy-efficient buildings.

6. The window is new and under warranty — what to do? File a warranty claim with the installer and request repair under the contract.

If you want, I can prepare a step-by-step inspection checklist for DIY testing and a list of questions to ask installers at handover.