Winter should be comfy and cozy. From hot cocoa to snug blankets, the winter season is much warmer than you may think. However, huge heating bills can make winter miserable. Fortunately, there are ways to save money during the winter, and one of the biggest ways is winterizing your windows. Not only does it keep warm air in, winterizing ensures the integrity of your windows and keeps them in tip-top shape through the cold snowy months.
‘Tis the season to winterize your windows, and we have some great tips to help you do it.
Tip #1: Caulking and Sealing Windows
Cold air will find its way into your home through any means possible, but especially through the windows. If you feel a draft when you walk by a window in your home, you most likely have an air leak that’s costing you money each month. However, sealing cracks and air leaks around windows is simple when you use caulk. Caulk is inexpensive, and–with the right technique–can be applied to the stationary components of a window in a matter of minutes. Make sure to remove any existing caulk and practice a few times before caulking your windows.
Tip #2: Weather Stripping
Unlike caulk, weather stripping can be applied to the mobile parts of a window. Weather stripping comes in many different materials and sizes, including a tension seal, reinforced foam, felt, and vinyl. There are pros and cons to each type of weather stripping, so it’s best to do your research to find which will fit your needs before you make a purchase. Weather stripping must be applied to a clean, dry surface in temperatures around or above 30°F for ideal results.
Tip #3: Storm Windows
Storm windows are a great way to transition your home from summer to winter. They aren’t just for insulation; storm windows preserve your old windows so they can be effective for years to come. Storm windows are a smart choice for homeowners who have older windows or live in a climate with harsh winters. While they may require additional costs to install, the savings in the long run are much more valuable.
Tip #4: Basement Window Well Covers
If you have a basement with window wells, this tip is for you. Window well covers help insulate and trap heat that would otherwise escape. Made with clear polycarbonate or acrylic plastic, window well covers allow what little of the sun is available into the basement through the frigid winter. They can also be custom-made to fit your window well for optimal heat and energy efficiency.
Tip #5: Replace Your Old Windows
Cracked or old windows present a host of problems. Not only do they stick out like a sore thumb, they can break easily, endangering you and your loved ones. Luckily, Sawyer Glass handles everything from window repair to window replacement and can get your windows as energy efficient as ever.
While some aspects of winterizing can be done from home, there are many issues that should be tackled by a professional instead. The best way to make sure your windows are ready for winter is by reaching out to the experts at Sawyer Glass. We can repair or replace your old windows, or design and install new custom windows for your home. Whatever you’re looking for, Sawyer Glass is here to help. Contact us today to get started!