With winter coming, keeping your home warm and energy efficient is top of the list. Drafty windows and doors that don’t insulate well can let in cold air and raise your energy bills, as well as make your home less comfortable.
One of the most cost effective ways of protecting your home from the chill, reducing heating costs and keeping your home warm all winter is to winter proof your windows and doors.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through some essential tips on how to winter-proof your windows and doors, as well as some practical solutions to common cold weather problems.
1. Identify Problem Areas
The first step towards winter proofing your home is identifying the drafts and inefficiencies.
- Inspect Your Windows and Doors: Look for visible gaps, cracks or damaged seals around windows or doors.
- Perform a Candle Test: Light a candle or incense stick and slowly move around the edges of your windows and doors with it. A draft means if the flame flickers or if smoke is pulled inwards.
- Assess the Glass: Double or triple pane windows are better insulators than single pane.
It helps you identify the problem areas so you can focus on the most critical fixes for your home.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
A large source of heat loss is through gaps and cracks around windows and doors. One of the easiest and most practical solutions is to seal these areas.
Caulking
- Weatherproof caulk should be used to seal gaps around the frames on your windows and doors.
- For maximum insulation apply caulk to both interior and exterior areas.
- Choose silicone based caulk for flexibility and durability.
Weatherstripping
- Weatherstripping around doors and windows is an easy way to keep drafts out.
- Adhesive backed foam, V-strip, or rubber weatherstripping is what you need.
- Replace old or worn weatherstripping to keep a tight seal.
3. Replace with Energy Efficient Glass
Upgrading to double or triple pane glass on your windows will greatly improve insulation if they have single pane glass.
Benefits of Double-Glazing
- It reduces heat loss by creating an insulating barrier between panes.
- It lowers energy bills and improves indoor comfort.
- Reduces condensation and cold spots by windows.
- If you can’t replace the windows, you can add window film or storm windows (temporarily) to help with insulation.
4. The first step is to install insulated window treatments.
An extra layer of protection against the cold may be added by adding window treatments.
Thermal Curtains
- Trap heat indoors by using heavy, thermal lined curtains.
- Keep curtains drawn at night to minimise heat loss and open at day time to let in natural daylight.
Cellular Shades
- Cellular (or honeycomb) shades have air pockets that serve as insulators.
- They can decrease heat transfer and increase energy efficiency.
Draft Stoppers
- To keep cold air out, put draft stoppers on windowsills and under the base of doors.
5. Add door sweeps and thresholds.
Door sweep is a cost effective way to seal the gap between your door and the floor.
How to Install a Door Sweep
- Cut the sweep to size to measure the width of your door.
- Screw or adhesive the sweep to the bottom edge of the door.
- Add a well fitted threshold and pair door sweeps to make a tight seal against drafts.
6. Window Film Can Be Used for Insulation
Window films are a relatively easy way to improve your windows’ energy efficiency without breaking the bank.
Benefits of Window Film
- It reduces heat loss by up to 30%.
- It prevents cold air to pass through the glass.
- It minimizes glare and UV damage to furniture.
- DIY kits are available at most hardware stores or you can hire a professional to install it, but a more durable installation is always better.
7. Storm doors and windows are worth investment.
Additional barriers against cold weather are storm doors and windows.
Advantages
- Protects your main windows and doors from weather extremes.
- Traps air between the storm layer and your main doors or windows to improve insulation.
- Can be taken out in the warmer months to allow ventilation.
- Storm doors and windows are an upfront investment; however, they can pay for themselves over time with energy savings.
8. Check and replace door and window hardware.
The condition of your window and door hardware is a major factor in how well they insulate your home.
Inspect Hinges and Locks
- Tighten loose hinges so doors close properly.
- Check that locks are in proper alignment and repair if necessary.
Replace Old Hardware
- Upgrade to multipoint locking systems for a tighter seal on doors.
- Look at new hardware that is build for energy efficiency.
9. Around Window and Door Frames Insulate
Often the source of drafts can be the area around your window and door frames.
Use Spray Foam Insulation
- Block air leaks around the edges of frames with expanding foam insulation.
- Cut off any excess foam for a clean finish.
Install Insulated Trim
Further energy efficiency can be gained by replacing existing trim with insulated options.
10. Condensation on Windows
Mold growth and damage can occur during winter when the air is cold enough to cause condensation.
Tips to Minimize Condensation
- Control indoor humidity levels with a dehumidifier.
- Make sure kitchen and bathroom air are properly ventilated.
- Coat your windows with anti condensation coatings.
11. Regular Maintenance
Winter proofing is not a one time job. Keeping up with regular maintenance means your efforts stay effective for the entire season.
Cleaning and Lubrication
- Remove obstructions by cleaning window tracks and door hinges.
- Lubricate moving parts to keep them from binding or sticking.
Inspect Seals and Insulation
- Inspect caulking and weatherstripping for wear and replace if necessary.
- Reapply insulation as needed.
SPF Windows: We are Your Trusted Partner for Winter-Proofing Solutions.
SPF Windows is a high quality window and door company that specializes in high quality windows, doors and accessories which will keep your home warm and energy efficient during the harshest of winters. We use cutting edge technology to build our products to provide superior insulation and durability.
Why Choose SPF Windows?
- Energy Efficiency: Our double and triple pane windows lose a lot less heat.
- Custom Solutions: Our options are tailored to meet your home’s specific needs.
- Expert Installation: Maximum performance and longevity is guaranteed with professional installation.
Let SPF Windows get you ready for winter! To find out more about our products and services, contact us today.
Conclusion
To keep a warm, cozy and energy efficient home all winter long, it’s important to winter proof your windows and doors. Sealing gaps, upgrading to energy efficient glass, adding insulation can save you money on heating bills and give you a warm living space.
Keep in mind, however, that in order for your treatment to be effective in the long run, you need to do proper maintenance and get high quality products. SPF Windows offers the best solutions for your home for reliable and energy efficient windows and doors. SPF Windows will keep you warm this winter!