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However, closing windows may provide a deceptive sense of security for some allergy sufferers. Many windows and doors do not provide a tight barrier, allowing microscopic airborne pollens to flow freely indoors. Older homes are especially susceptible to structural air leaks around windows and doors, not only due to normal aging, but because the windows and doors were produced using outdated design and construction techniques when industry standards were less stringent.
There are three window features that make the biggest contributions to an airtight seal: design and construction, weather-stripping, and the locking mechanism. When buying an existing home, considering window replacement in an older home or building a new home, check the following elements:
2. Is the weather-stripping worn, dislodged, missing or somehow compromised? In a casement window, is the weather-stripping mitered and securely joined together in the corners of the window?
The criteria used to judge the airtight seal of windows also can be applied to doors, although the industry standards are different. For sliding doors, design can make a big difference. If the sliding or "vent" panel is on the exterior and the fixed panel is on the interior, wind or air pressure actually creates a tighter seal. Similarly, a two-point locking mechanism (with locks positioned at the top and bottom of the door) closes more tightly and allows less air to penetrate. (Based on Net resources) Published on 26th June 2002
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Another allergy season and an estimated 50 million to 60 million people will be suffering from upper respiratory symptoms - itchy eyes, runny noses and sneezing - caused by allergic reactions to airborne pollens. With airborne pollens, avoiding "offending allergens" sometimes is easier said than done. After all, it's not practical during peak allergy seasons to live sealed indoors. Yet physicians commonly advise patients not to invite outside airborne pollens into their living environment by closing windows and doors and spending as much time as possible within a well air-conditioned home or building.
Experts agree that living environments can be improved to help alleviate allergies at a fraction of the cost spent annually on medical care to treat asthma and allergies. And, the improvements are long-lasting. Replacing windows and doors with a proven airtight seal can actually reduce airflow and inhibit the invasion of offending allergens.
1. What is the air filtration standard for the window? The standards measure how many cubic feet of air per minute penetrate from the exterior to the interior. Do your windows meet or exceed these standards? Some manufacturers adhere to more rigorous standards than required by the industry. Also, ask the manufacturers how often they test their windows to meet the industry standards. Some test every window, some don't.
3. Does the locking mechanism contribute to an airtight seal by pulling the sash tighter against the frame (for casement windows) or compressing the window frame against the weather-stripping for a tighter seal (double-hung windows)?
