Two common things can cause air to enter (infiltrate) a home through the windows:
- "Window convection" is caused when air rapidly cools around a window, creating a draft as heated air circulates past the window, cools, and then sinks. This occurs naturally and is not a product defect.
- "Air leakage" appears similarly, but is a draft caused by air entering from outside, either through a poorly insulated window or through gaps between the walls of the home and the window frame.
Resolve Air Coming Through an Andersen® Gliding Window
This article will walk you through a series of solutions to help resolve air infiltration concerns.
White 200 Series Gliding Window
Let's Get Started
1. Start By Optimizing the Gliding Window's Performance
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance, which is key to helping prevent air infiltration. For step-by-step instructions, see Clean and Care for Andersen® Casement and Awning Windows.
- Make sure you keep the window sash closed and locked when not in use for optimal performance.
Resolution
If the steps above resolved the concern, you're all set! Your gliding window should seal air out properly.
2. Still Having Trouble? Inspect the Weatherstrip
Check the weatherstrip on your gliding window for gaps, damage, or permanent compression (AKA a flattened weatherstrip). We recommend replacing any weatherstrip with gaps or signs of damage or typical wear and tear.
For instructions on replacing a weatherstrip, find the applicable article for your window's Series and weatherstrip location below.
|
400 Series
|
Perma-Shield (1971-1992)
|
200 Series
|
Resolution
If this resolved the concern, you're all set! your gliding window should seal air out properly.
If you tried both steps above and they did not resolve the concern, the window sash or other components may need to be adjusted. See Step 3 below.
3. Check For Possible Adjustments
Check your gliding window unit to verify if any adjustments need to be made to the sash or other components.
For instructions on adjusting the sash or other components, find the applicable article for your window's Series below.
Resolution
If the steps above resolved the concern, you're all set! Your gliding window should seal air out properly.
If the steps above did not resolve the concern, Contact Andersen® Windows and Doors for assistance.
Similar Symptoms
Weather Damage
Air infiltration can occur if your gliding window has been damaged by severe weather. For more information, see Severe Weather and Andersen® Window or Patio Door Limited Warranty.
Unit Installation
For your window to gliding operate smoothly, it must be plumb, level, and square. To check your gliding window's installation, see Checking Window or Patio Door Unit Installation or Locating Andersen® Window and Patio Door Service Providers if you would like a service provider to check the installation for you.
©2026 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.
