When homeowners don’t winterize windows in their houses, they could end up with higher energy bills, cold drafts, and other uncomfortable problems. If you enjoy gazing out of your window on a snowy winter day, read on to discover the best way to winterize windows before the cold weather arrives.
Top FAQs Regarding Window Winterization
What Is the Most Important Method for Winterizing Windows?
The most important method for winterizing windows involves insulating them with clear plastic. Learn more about this tip below.
Is It Possible to Winterize Windows Without Plastic?
While most professionals highly recommend plastic, it is possible to winterize your windows without it. Discover more ways to insulate below.
What Is the Average Cost of Wintering One’s Home?
The average cost for winterizing a home is $200, though the price fluctuates depending on how many windows you have.
Where Do Windows Lose Heat?
Windows lose heat through small cracks and the window pane.
How Much Heat Do Windows Lose on Average?
On average, windows lose about 30% of a home’s heat. Windows are one of the leading causes of a building’s heat loss.
Do You Winterize a Window from the Inside or Outside?
You can winterize a window from both areas with different materials.
Window Winterizing: The Methods & Tips
While window winterizing specifics depend greatly on the types of windows your home has, you can implement a few tried and true methods to start the process. When you winterize windows, bear in mind that each method has its pros and cons and may not fit your needs.
Keep Windows Clean Before the Snow and Ice Season Hits
Before you winterize windows outside or inside, you should ensure that you clean the entire window beforehand. A thorough cleaning requires more than some window cleaner and a squeegee. You need to remove all debris as well.
Use professional window cleaning services for optimal cleanliness. Expert window cleaners have the necessary equipment to properly clean each window regardless of location. They’ll also tidy up each nook and cranny.
Advantages:
- Straight-forward solution
- Cost-effective
- A strong foundation for any comprehensive winterization plan
Disadvantages:
- Some windows are difficult to reach, requiring a professional
- A window may require disassembly to fully clean small spaces
Caulk and Seal the Windows
Sometimes, windows develop small cracks in their frames. Aging components may not fit correctly, leaving small open spaces where air exchanges constantly. You won’t notice this airflow during warm seasons.
But the drafts become obvious during the winter. Use caulk to seal up open spaces around each window.
You can detect drafts by feeling around the window frame. You can also use a thermometer or hygrometer to detect subtle temperature or moisture changes that you might miss.
Here’s how to winterize windows with caulk:
- Use a soft rag and an appropriate cleaning solution to clean the drafty area before applying the caulk.
- After the cleaning solution dries, squirt the caulk around the area.
- Less indoor heat will escape in the winter, which prevents high utility bills.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Easy to apply
- Easily accessible
Disadvantages:
- Needs occasional replacement
- Can look unattractive
The Weather Stripping
If you can open and close your windows, try quality weather stripping. A weather strip goes where the movable part lands or closes. You can purchase weather strips in the following materials:
- Metal
- Vinyl
- Felt
- Magnetic
After installation, your new weather stripping will prevent air from seeping into your windows’ openings for years to come. They may also keep dust or dirt from seeping inside as well.
Advantages:
- Choose from a variety of materials
- Durable products
- Effective solutions
Disadvantages:
- Can be more expensive than other solutions
- May require an intricate installation process
- Some materials can’t handle moisture well
The Storm Windows
The term “storm window” may include anything from a specially cut piece of winterizing window plastic to a window with multiple panes. A storm window prevents indoor air from escaping while keeping outdoor air outside. Choose from exterior or interior fittings, or use both.
Many people struggle to install exterior fittings as they require a completely clean surface. You must also clean them throughout the season. You can install interior storm windows more easily.
If you want to avoid plastic or use something more permanent, consider permanent panes or installing new windows. You can circumvent the seasonal hassle and plastic’s unattractive appearance with permanent fixtures.
Advantages:
- Versatile; can use indoors and outdoors
- Easily accessible
- Easy maintenance and installation
Disadvantages:
- Decreases curb appeal
- Temporary solution
- Permanent solutions can be expensive with an arduous installation process
Thermal Window Treatments
Fashionable window treatments provide a more appealing way to prevent cold air from entering your home. Some curtains and drapes consist of thermal material that keeps warm air inside. You can increase their efficiency with curtain ties, Velcro tape, or pins to ensure each curtain stays together.
If you prefer a pull-down drape, purchase a treatment that fits the window’s measurements perfectly. Small drapes may not fit the window, leaving ample space for air to escape. Large drapes offer plenty of coverage but can sway and allow air transfer.
Advantages:
- Fashionable and attractive
- Efficient insulation
- Can be stored and reused
Disadvantages:
- Can be expensive
- May require precise measurements
- Washing and maintenance
The Door Snakes
Despite the name, door snakes work well for both doors and windows. You can purchase them in multiple materials, and they require minimal installation work or upkeep.
For doors and windows with outdoor access, use materials plastic and durable foam to prevent cold air from seeping inside. Fabric door snakes help keep heat relegated to a single room.
Advantages:
- Excellent DIY solution
- Cost-effective
- Versatile and accessible
Disadvantages:
- Can hinder opening and closing doors
- May not provide optimal insulation
Contact Our Evergreen Window Cleaning Team
Don’t just winterize windows. Get your whole house ready for cold weather with our team at Evergreen Window Cleaning! We can tackle tasks like window cleaning, roof cleaning, and gutter cleaning to ensure your home can handle intense winter weather.
Complete our simple contact form to start the process.
