Windows are one of the number one sources for leaks in homes and no matter what time of year it is, you want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your windows. When the winter season comes around, you don't want to to be heating your entire neighborhood and you don’t the cold air from your air conditioner getting out in the middle of summer. Here are a few tips you can apply to make sure your windows are properly insulated to keep you warm and cozy all through the wintery months ahead.
Apply Weather Sealing
Do your windows have some drafts, but you aren’t able to replace your window right away? Using weather sealing can be a temporary fix. Weather sealing is a type of material that can be applied to the frame of a window in order to close any drafts. While it isn't a long-term solution, it will usually last for one or two seasons. Standard packs of the material can be found in any hardware store.
Use the Right Curtains
The curtains you use can make a difference in how well your windows keep your home warm. If you're unable to do any exterior maintenance on your windows during the winter months, consider hanging curtains made of heavy fabric. This fabric not only locks out light, but helps to keep out drafts. You may even want to consider getting insulated curtains for maximum warmth. As a side benefit, heavier curtains can help absorb sound, keeping the noise level down within your home.
Use Cell Shades
Cellular shades are a type of window covering that can be purchased at most hardware stores. These shades are cut to fit your windows. While they allow light to come through, they help to insulate the windows against the cold; this is particularly effective in homes that do not have vinyl replacement windows. These shades are also useful if you have a cracked window you are unable to replace right away because they help to stabilize the glass and block out any drafts that may come through the cracks.
Use a Draft Snake
Have you ever rolled a towel and stuck it underneath a door to keep the heat inside? That's the same concept a draft snake operates on. It's a tube of fabric placed at the window sill that prevents heat from your furnace or cold air from your air conditioner from escaping. Best of all, you can make your own draft snake by simply sewing a tube of fabric, filling it with dry rice, and sewing it shut. If you have an old sock, it can do the trick just as easily.
Caulk the Windows
The best option for insulation a window frame is to apply caulk. Caulk is easy to use and can be done as a DIY project, but you can also seek professional application if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself.
