One of the most common ways that homes waste energy in the winter is through the windows. Even the tiniest gap in the caulk or weatherproofing material will allow enough heat to escape that it will cause the furnace to turn on more frequently and run longer.
How to Weatherproof Windows
For this reason, it’s always recommended to check your windows before fall’s cooler temperatures roll in. If you find areas where the caulking is missing or cracked, then here’s a simple guide you can follow to help weatherproof windows for better energy savings this winter.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Caulk
- Caulk gun
- Window cleaner
- Clean lint-free cloths
- Utility knife
- Window weatherstripping
- Window weatherproofing plastic
- Hair dryer
Prepare Your Windows for Winter
Before you weatherproof windows, you’ll need to clean the windows thoroughly, both inside and out. Using window cleaner and lint-free cloths will work best. While you’re cleaning them, check the frames for any signs of rot. If you have rotted frames, you should have them replaced before the winter weather arrives. If you find a pane of glass that has a crack, then the entire pane will need to be replaced.
Inspect the caulk around the window frame for any signs of cracking or missing caulk. Use a utility knife to remove all the bad caulk, and then clean the surfaces. Apply a fresh bead of caulk around the window and let it cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Install Weatherstripping
The next step involves installing weatherstripping around the window seams. This will help prevent air from flowing between the inside of the home and the outside. Keep in mind that once you install the weatherstripping, you won’t be able to open the windows, so make sure summer is over before you do this step.
Insulate the Window With Weatherproofing Plastic
As much as applying new caulk and weatherstripping around the windows will help reduce energy loss, there is another step you should take to fully insulate the windows. This involves installing plastic weatherproofing film over the windows. When this product is properly installed, it acts like another pane of glass and eliminates the transfer of cold outdoor air and warm indoor air.
To install, cut a piece of plastic a little larger than the window it is being applied to and tape it to the frame using the double-sided tape that came with it. Try to keep the plastic as tight as possible when setting it in place. Next, plug in a hair dryer and turn it on at its highest setting. Blow the hot air against the plastic, making sure to move the hair dryer around, so it doesn’t heat up one part of the plastic too long or it may melt. As the plastic heats, it will shrink and become taut. Repeat this process for every window in the house.
Need New Windows? Contact Thompson Creek Today
New replacement windows are extremely energy efficient and much better alternative to weatherproofing your old windows. If you have windows that need to be replaced, get the job done before the winter or your energy bills will be substantially higher than they should be this cold season. At Thompson Creek, we can customize your new windows to the exact dimensions of your home. To learn more about our custom window installation, contact Thompson Creek and get a free estimate today.