Texas winters can bring unexpected chills (and the random snowpocalypse), so it’s crucial to prepare your home for colder months. One often overlooked area to address is your doors and windows.
Winterizing your windows and doors is critical to increasing your home’s energy efficiency, as drafty windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss, driving up your energy bills. Additionally, a well-winterized home is a cozy home. Drafty windows and doors can lead to uncomfortable temperature fluctuations, making it difficult to maintain a cozy indoor environment. By preventing drafts, you can enjoy a warmer and more comfortable living space.
In addition to the financial and comfort benefits, winterizing your home can also contribute to environmental sustainability. By reducing your reliance on energy-intensive heating systems, you can help lower your carbon footprint and support a more sustainable future.
How to Winterize Your Windows and Doors
STEP 1: The first step to winterizing your windows is to inspect for drafts. Run your hand along the edges of your windows and doors to feel for any cold air, or light a candle and slowly move it along the edges of your windows and doors. If the flame flickers, you’ve found a draft.
STEP 2: Next you need to seal up the gaps. Apply a high-quality caulk around window and door frames, baseboards, and other areas where air is seeping in. Then check your exterior doors to make sure the weatherstripping along the edges creates a tight seal. If not, replace it with the appropriate type of weatherstripping for your specific needs, such as V-strip, foam tape, or brush strip. You could also install a storm door. Storm doors create an extra barrier between your home and the outside elements, helping to reduce heat loss. If you’re unsure about how to properly install weatherstripping or caulk, consider hiring a professional.
STEP 3: Lastly, inspect your doors and hinges to make sure they’re operating properly. Lubricate your door hinges and locks to ensure smooth operation and to prevent drafts. It’s also a good time to make sure your doors are properly aligned and close tightly. You’d be surprised at how much a door can shift with use. If needed, adjust the hinges or strike plate. Don’t forget to examine your threshold and replace any damaged or worn-out parts.
These are just a few tips to effectively winterize your home and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient living space. Doing a little work up front can keep your home cozy all winter long.
