The winter winds can be unrelenting during the coldest months of the year, leading to higher heating bills and serious property damage. Homeowners that are in the process of winterizing their homes must pay extra attention to their windows to make sure they can withstand the worst winter weather. Read on for four tips to weatherproof your windows this winter.
Tips to Weatherproof Your Windows
Treat Window Cracks
Windows with flaws or cracks are more likely to break during the winter. Cracks along the outside of the window frames can cause air to blow in and may even damage the window itself. By sealing these cracks with rope caulking, homeowners will help to reduce the effect of storm-force winds.
Consider Low-E Glass
Homeowners that are gearing up for the inevitable spike in their energy bill during the winter can help offset these costs by hiring a glazier to install low-e glass to maximize solar energy and reduce heat loss in the winter. As windows are typically responsible for an average of 25% of heat loss during this season, Low-e glass makes up for this with a metallic oxide film that allows light to penetrate it and reflect heat into the home during the winter.
Invest in Shutters
While most homeowners fail to consider window treatments like shutters as they winterize their homes, these types of window coverings can promote energy efficiency during the colder months. Exterior shutters provide an extra layer of protection to keep the cold out and protect the glass from the howling winds and rain that come with winter weather. Similarly, interior shutters are another window treatment option that helps homeowners minimize heat gain during the winter.
These window coverings work to insulate the home by minimizing cold drafts during the winter months. Additionally, when summer rolls around, these shutters help to keep the hot air out, maximizing your efforts to keep your home cool.
Weather Stripping
Homeowners that aren’t taking any chances to keep out the cold this winter should consider whether stripping. With weather-stripping, homeowners use strips to seal windows and doors to prevent the cold air from entering. With the option of foam, v-type, and compression strips, homeowners that invest in weather stripping will know that they’ve done their best to keep their homes as warm as possible.
Don’t let winters worst wreak havoc on your windows this year. Keep these four tips in mind as you begin weatherproof your windows this winter season.