How to Winterproof Old Windows and Doors
As the seasons change and temperatures lower, drafts and cold air can seep into homes through old doors and windows making rooms feel chilly. Winterproofing your doors and windows can help prevent warm air from escaping, keep cold air out, and reduce your energy bills during winter.
Why Winterproofing Matters
Over time, windows and doors can lose their insulative properties. As they get older, frames may deteriorate, gaps may develop, or exposure to the elements may weaken insulation, all of which allow cold air in and warm air to escape out. This makes heating systems run harder and monthly energy bills increase.
By winterproofing doors and windows in advance of winter, you will help prevent heat loss, maintain more comfortable temperatures in your home, reduce condensation along the glass surfaces, and minimize risks of moisture damage from freezing and thawing rain, sleet or snow.
How To Winterproof Old Windows
The first step to winterproofing windows is to check the insulation. Poor insulation is the most common reason for outside air leaking into a home. From inside of your home, your hand around the window frame on a windy day. If you feel cold air flowing through, you likely have an insulation issue.
Fix Broken Seals and Add Weatherstripping
Try to determine if broken caulk, damaged weatherstripping, or loose window trim may be causing the leak. Even small leaks can significantly reduce the efficiency of your heating system. In many cases, new caulking or peel and stick weather stripping can be purchased at a nominal cost.
If using caulk, clean the area where the leak is occurring and fill any gaps or holes with silicone or latex caulk. To preserve the integrity of moving parts, place self-adhesive weather stripping or a foam window seal around the window sash. Both options help to tighten any gaps between the frame and the sash and can easily be removed once the weather warms up.
Use Thermal Curtains or Cellular Shades
To improve window insulation during colder months, consider using thermal curtains or cellular shades. These treatments add an extra layer of protection and help keep warm air inside the house while still allowing natural light to enter.
How to Winterproof Old Doors
Old doors are subject to the same leaking issues as the windows. Heat loss may occur through cracked seals, bent frames, and loose hinges from wear or settling.
Add Weatherstripping and Door Sweeps
If you can feel drafts when running your hand along your door of see light passing through the frame when the door is completely closed, you likely need better weather stripping around the door frame. Peel and stick weatherstripping can be purchased in different thicknesses, depending on the width of the gaps needing to be filled.
Seal and Caulk Cracks
Next, note the state of the threshold. Does it appear broken or unlevel? If so, use sealant or foam to fix minor cracks, and install a door sweep at the bottom of the door to prevent the entrance of the cold air, and any critters seeking warmth.
Use Door Snakes
Fabric draft stoppers or “door snakes” can also be used as temporary solutions for extra insulation. In addition to being used at the base of exterior doors, they can also be used on top of windowsills and in the tracks of sliding glass doors.
When To Seek Professional Help
In most cases, a few simply DIY projects is all it will take to add some extra winter weather protection to old windows and doors. By sealing small cracks and replacing old weather stripping, you can help improve the insulation of your windows and doors and lower energy costs.
However, most of these solutions are only temporary. For a long-term fix, or when issues like wood rot, cracked windows, or broken frames are present, investing in professional services and new installations should be considered in advance of winter. In addition to minimizing heat loss, new windows and exterior doors will help to increase the value of your home and improve curb appeal.
If you are noticing signs your windows and exterior doors need to be replaced vs. a simply repaired, the professionals at Energy Exteriors NW can help you find modern and energy-efficient solutions that fit your budget and will make your home more comfortable year-round.