How do I find and fix a drafty window?
To find a drafty window, hold a lit candle or incense stick near the window edges, corners, and around the frame on a windy day. If the flame flickers or smoke wavers, you've found the leak. You can also feel with your hand or use a flashlight at night to spot gaps.
To fix it, start by applying weatherstripping foam tape around the sash where it meets the frame. For gaps between the frame and wall, use caulk to seal them. If the rope caulk is a temporary option, you can press it into gaps and remove it in spring. For older windows with cracked glazing putty around the glass panes, scrape out the old putty and apply fresh glazing compound.