When should I call a tradie instead of DIY?

Call a licensed tradie if the job is outside your skill level, involves regulated work (electrical, gas, plumbing past the tap), or you're unsure about safety.

General Home Maintenance · Safety

Seal Draughty Windows

Q: How much does a tradie charge for seal draughty windows?

Estimated tradie cost: $200–$400.

Run a stick of incense around the closed window on a windy day to find gaps. Apply self-adhesive foam tape to the frame where the sash closes, and gun a thin bead of clear sealant along any cracked exterior glazing.

Likely issue

Perished weather seal or cracked glazing bead

DIY difficulty

1/5

Estimated DIY cost

$20–$30

Estimated tradie cost

$200–$400

Tools required

Caulking gun
Cloth
Scissors

Materials required

Step-by-step instructions

Use a candle or incense to locate the draught precisely before sealing.
Run a stick of incense around the closed window on a windy day to find gaps. Apply self-adhesive foam tape to the frame where the sash closes, and gun a thin bead of clear sealant along any cracked exterior glazing.

Safety warnings

Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses), isolate power or water where relevant, and stop work if anything looks unsafe or unfamiliar.

When to call a tradie

Call a licensed tradie if the work is outside the scope of this guide, involves regulated trades (electrical, gas, structural, waterproofing), or if you discover hidden damage. A professional will typically charge $200–$400.

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