Winter is right around the corner with its harsh winds, cold temperatures and winter storms. While it’s pretty to look at from a distance, you want to make sure you keep winter outside of your home. To keep the cold out, it is important to make sure you properly prepare the main entry points – your windows and doors for the wrath of winter.
Check for drafts
It is important to check your windows and doors for drafts. If drafts are being let into your home, your energy bill can increase substantially every month, as your furnace will be working twice as hard to warm the cool air from entering your home.
Unsure if your windows and doors are keeping the cold air out? If you have drafts take a candle and place it near any area you are worried about. If you see the flame dancing or flickering, it is likely because there is a draft coming through the window or door. This is a tell-tale sign that you should do some extra work to prepare your windows and doors for winter.
Caulk the windows
Caulking is the main line of protection used against cold air entering your home. The unfortunate reality is that even the best caulking can eventually form cracks or gaps. Having said this, it is an easy procedure to seal up these mishaps. You can either start from scratch and peel back the old caulking and replace it or you can simply patch up any problem areas.
Apply plastic film
Applying a plastic film to your windows can help insulate during cold weather. According to The Daily News Miner, insulating your windows with a plastic film can help retain up to 50% of the heat you generate inside, equivalent to adding an extra window pane! The plastic film is clear, allowing you to maintain a full view of the outdoors and is held in place using double-sided tape.
Use draft blockers
You can purchase effective draft snakes to place at the bottom of your windows and doors to prevent any warm air from escaping or cold air from entering your home. Hoping to save some money? Try a do-it-yourself option and roll up some old towels and tie elastics at each end to keep them in their tube form. This simple and inexpensive way to stop drafts will keep your house warmer and help you save on your energy bill.
Take your screens off
Your screens can get damaged from the snow that collects on them during the winter months. It is best to take your screens off and store them in a warm and dry space until springtime. This will ultimately protect your screens from weather damage and allow them to last longer.
Winter is beautiful and you will want to look at it through your windows or head out your front door to experience it, but make sure you also remember to protect your windows and doors this winter.
