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As the chill of winter approaches, it’s easy to overlook a crucial part of winter readiness: preparing your windows to protect your home’s warmth and efficiency. From minor drafts to moisture buildup, windows can shield your home from harsh winter elements or be a gateway for heat loss if not properly maintained.
Whether you’ve recently installed new windows or are holding out hope for your current ones, preparing your windows for winter is essential. These maintenance tips help keep your home comfortable while also reducing energy bills, making it an essential pre-winter task.
Begin with a Thorough Inspection
Start by walking through your home and examining each window from both the inside and outside. Look carefully at the frames and sills for any signs of wear or damage. Small cracks, gaps, or compromised wood can allow cold air to infiltrate your home, leading to uncomfortable drafts and energy inefficiencies.
When inspecting, check the window glass for chips or damage and note any screens that need repair. Addressing these issues early on can prevent further problems when winter weather hits.
Consider Storm Window Replacements or Insulation Kits
For those who live in areas with especially cold winters, storm windows can offer an added layer of insulation, helping to keep the cold at bay. Storm windows help reduce heat loss, which can make a noticeable difference in your heating bill. If storm windows aren’t an option for your home, window insulation kits are another effective choice. These kits, available at most hardware stores, involve applying a transparent film over your window to add a layer of insulation. Both options enhance the window’s efficiency and stabilize indoor temperatures.
Seal Drafts with Caulk and Weatherstripping
Drafty windows can be one of the biggest contributors to heat loss, so it’s important to address any gaps that may be allowing cold air inside. Caulk is ideal for sealing stationary cracks along the edges, while weatherstripping works well for any movable parts like window sashes. Make sure to carefully apply these materials around each window frame to create an airtight seal. Not only does sealing drafts keep your home warmer, but it also lowers your heating costs by reducing the energy needed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Clean Windows to Maximize Light
Winter days are shorter, and maximizing natural light can brighten your home and even help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. Before the cold settles in, clean your windows well. Dirt and grime can dull the appearance of your windows and diminish the amount of light coming through. Clean glass also allows the sun’s rays to penetrate more effectively, providing a small yet noticeable increase in warmth on sunny days.
Manage Indoor Humidity Levels
Winter brings challenges when it comes to balancing indoor humidity, especially as heated air can be very dry. However, if humidity levels become too high, windows can develop condensation, leading to water buildup around the frame. Over time, this moisture can cause issues like mold and wood rot. The recommended indoor humidity level during winter is around 30-40%, depending on outdoor temperatures. Dehumidifiers or ceiling fans can help keep these levels in check, reducing the chance of condensation on windows.
Verify Window Locks and Security
With windows closed more frequently in winter, now is a good time to check that each window is properly locked. Over the warmer months, opening windows and possibly leaving some unlocked is common. Securing each window before winter provides an added layer of insulation and helps maintain the overall security of your home. This step is especially important for windows that are easily accessible from the ground level or those near high-traffic areas of your home.
Embrace Winter with Supreme Windows
With expert knowledge and quality solutions, Supreme Windows is here to make your home more comfortable and efficient this winter. When you’re ready for a window replacement, we’re ready to help you get your home winter-ready with top-of-the-line window selections. Send us some photos of your current windows to get a quote today! We bypass the lengthy schpiels and can help you keep your home warm, energy-efficient, and winter-ready without the fuss.
