Back to Blogs
It’s Getting Cold—Let’s Talk Windows
In the summertime, especially in New England, many of us shove window air conditioning units into our windows, leaving large gaps. But once the AC is on and the cool air flows, we quickly forget that our windows are a little worn out and crooked.
However, come winter, we’re painfully aware of the shortcomings of our windows. That’s when we really feel their deficiencies. Whether it's the stiff breeze that howls outside, letting itself in through a window gap, underperforming windows can be a real problem in the winter. Here are a few ways to fix that.
Caulk Gaps to Reduce Drafts
The trim in your house expands and contracts as the seasons change and the humidity levels shift. In the drier winter months, your wooden trim will contract as it loses moisture, causing gaps and spaces where there previously weren't.
Use Insulating Foam
Older windows have gaps in the panes of glass themselves, or through settling, are no longer closing on a level surface. These imperfections create gaps in which cold air can enter. Insulating foam will fill those gaps and level out uneven surfaces.
The Best Solution – Invest in New Windows!
Windows aren’t meant to last forever, especially if you live in an older home. Windows take a beating and, depending on their materials, will warp due to humidity, moisture, and temperature. After a while, they’ll start to stick and will no longer close completely.
While you could cover your windows in plastic, shove insulating foam in every nook and cranny, and cover the trim in caulk, it might simply be time to install new ones. Modern, vinyl windows are far more energy efficient than older windows, and wouldn’t it feel good to simply shut your windows in the winter and never give the cold weather outside a second thought?