Are you looking for ways to cut down on your hate heating costs? Weatherizing windows and doors is an inexpensive and easy way to do this. Between 5 and 30% of home energy is lost to drafty windows and doors, according to the US Department of Energy. Often it’s necessary to replace your windows or doors because the frames have deteriorated or the windows are simply inefficient, but if that’s not practical for you at the moment, here are some things you can do to temporarily reduce the problem.
Drafts Under Doors: Sometimes attaching a sweep, gluing or nailing rubber weather stripping under a door will cut back on big drafts. It does this by forming a seal when the door is shut. Foam can be added to the doorstop and will hold up for about a year or two. If you’re trying to insulate an exterior door, consider rubber, since that will last longer.
Treating Windows: When inspecting your windows, start outside and work your way in. Caulk leak prone areas like where different materials meet, like where brick borders with wood. The framing around the window sometimes needs to be sealed. The joints in the window frame are also vulnerable areas. Using a clear caulk allows you to paint it a matching color, while preventing small air leaks. Other options involve caulking the window shut or applying removable tube or rope caulk that can be taken out in the spring.
Insulation: To be extremely thorough, remove the interior trim pieces to check the installation of the window frame rim. Often builders will only stuff fiberglass insulation in that space, which isn’t ideal. In this case, spray non-expandable foam around the gaps. Water-based foam works as well. However, these savings will be minimal in comparison with the other sealing ideas.
For a temporary, though effective method, seal your windows with inexpensive plastic sheeting available in most hardware stores. You can also use heavy drapes, cellular shades or curtains.
Once you take these steps towards better insulation of your home. You’ll not only save money, but you’ll be more comfortable through the winter. Of these fixes don’t solve the problem, you may need to consult with a replacement window contractor to determine what would be the best solution for your home.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
