Your windows are a significant component of your home. They protect the outside world and keep rain, snow, debris, and more from getting inside. They also serve an aesthetic function as you want your windows to match your home and look clean and well-maintained.
With winter nearly here, it’s once again time to winterize your home. Even if you live in a more temperate climate, taking some time to prepare your home, especially your windows, can save you money on energy bills. If you want to keep your windows looking great throughout the year, you’ll want to prep them for the winter season.
With the simple tips in this article, you can prepare your windows for winter, keep them in good shape, and better regulate the temperature inside your home.
Tip 1: Start By Cleaning The Windows
You’ll want to begin by cleaning your windows. You can use a rag and a gentle cleaner to remove dirt and grime from the frames, sills, and tracks.
Then, you can use plain water or vinegar and water mix to wash down the window panes themselves. For the best, non-streaky results, use a squeegee to remove the water.
As Jeff Sterling of All Season Windows notes, “If you leave your windows dirty throughout winter, you may end up with small scrapes or lines from caked-on debris. Plus, hard water build-up is challenging to remove, so regular window cleaning will keep your windows in good shape.”
Tip 2: Inspect And Replace Caulking
After everything is cleaned up, you should look over the window frames and sills to look for issues with the caulking. You should look at both the window interiors and exteriors.
If you see any places where the caulk is peeling, missing, cracking, or curling, you’ll want to replace it. You can do this yourself or you can hire someone to do it for you. Hiring a pro might be your best bet if the caulking is in really bad shape.
Tip 3: Add Weather Stripping
After addressing the caulking, you’ll want to assess the weather stripping. Windows with old or broken weather stripping will let in the cold through drafts, and they could even allow moisture to get inside.
You’ll want to replace places where the weather stripping is gone or cracked. You can find weather stripping at hardware stores if you want to do this process yourself.
Tip 4: Consider Window Upgrades
If you’ve noticed drafts, condensation, or other issues with your windows, an upgrade might be in order. While windows that are relatively new or in good shape only need a few adjustments for winter, you might want to replace your windows if they have significant damage.
While replacing all your windows at once can improve energy efficiency and appearance, you can replace one or two that are in the worst shape if you’re on a tighter budget.
Tip 5: Contact Professionals For Help
While you can do much of the window upkeep and maintenance on your own, it never hurts to get some help from window professionals in your area. These window contractors can inspect your windows, especially if you suspect drafts, cracks, or other problems.
They may be able to suggest some maintenance tips or other fixes. Otherwise, they can assist with window upgrades or replacements.
With these five tips, you’ll be able to keep your windows looking great and protect your home throughout the winter.
Interesting Related Article: “5 Signs You Need New Energy Efficient Windows“