How to Prepare Your Windows For Winter
When the temperature drops, it’s time to prepare for winter. Windows are one of the most important things to prep when temperatures get colder. You don’t want drafts coming through the windows, so make sure you take care of them before cold weather sets in. Even if you have high quality windows like Windsor Windows, it’s important to prepare them from the harsh winds.
Here are some tips on how to prepare your home’s windows:
Caulk Your Windows
Caulking is probably the most popular and cost-effective way to stop winter drafts from entering your home. First, you’ll want to clean the area around your window. Make sure to use a damp cloth to wipe away dust and grime so that the caulk doesn’t get all over everything as you apply it. Once everything is cleaned, it’s time to start applying the caulk. You’ll want to apply it between the window frame and siding, then let it dry and cure overnight.
Replace Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is a rubber or plastic strip that fits between the window or the door frame. It can be removed and replaced, so if you find it’s worn out, you can get a new piece of weather stripping to replace it. Weather stripping helps keep heat inside the house during cold months as well as keep cool air from exiting during warmer months. You may be able to find replacement weather stripping at your local home improvement or hardware store.
Weather Proof Your Windows
Weather proofing your windows is an effective way to save energy and prevent drafty areas. In the winter months, it’s particularly important to keep your home warm and dry. Water vapor may condense on cold surfaces, especially if you live in a climate where the temperature fluctuates significantly throughout the year, like New York City.
One way to weatherproof your windows is by adding a layer of storm window film that blocks out UV rays and heat transfer through double-paned windows. This will help prevent drafts as well as condensation from forming inside of them during colder months when heaters are running full blast—especially if you situate yourself near one! Another option is installing storm windows on all exterior doors and windows; although this can be more costly than buying special film for just two panes, it will almost certainly provide better results over time because these models can withstand much higher temperatures without cracking or falling apart like traditional glass materials would when exposed directly against extreme conditions.
Apply Window Film
Window film is a thin sheet of plastic, typically applied to the inside of a window to help keep cold air out and heat in. It works by reflecting light and can be applied to single or double-paned windows.
You’ll want to make sure that your window film is UV-resistant, as this will prevent it from becoming damaged in direct sunlight. If you have tinted windows already installed on your home or business, you may use these as an indicator for whether the material used for your window film will stand up against exposure from UV rays. If they are still intact after several years outside, chances are good that your new window films will also hold up well over time!
Draft Stoppers
Draft stoppers, also known as draft snakes, are one of the more simple ways to stop cold air from making its way into your home. They’re used to quickly cover small gaps on windowsills and frames. Just align the tube on the windowsill in front of or along the frame opening.
We know that winter is no joke, and we hope these tips can help you prepare your windows for the worst. Even if you can’t fully replace your window or are simply looking for budget-friendly options to keep warm, remember that there are plenty of options like caulking and using draft stoppers. If you live in areas that are typically colder year-round or receive harsh winds, we suggest weather proofing your windows to make them last for years.
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