Save Money By Winterizing Your Windows

If there is one thing that is dreaded during winter, it is the heating bills. More so now that heating costs are rising up. You can, of course, cut down your heating expenses, and one of the most effective ways to do this is by winterizing your windows. Authorities said that winterizing windows can reduce heating expenses by 20 to 30%, which, in general terms, can mean a considerable amount of dollars. The primary goal of winterizing windows is to prevent heat loss, and here are some ways you can do this:

1. Know your windows. Before you embark into your winterization task, first figure what types of windows you have. Doing so will enable you to find the compatible treatment and installations needed. There are varied types of windows: single-hung, double-hung, horizontal sliding, swing out, and slat piece, among others. Also, consider how old your windows are, because if they are rather old and function quite unfavorably, perhaps what you need to do is replace them. Though this move may cost you more, this is more practical in the long run.

2. Check the windows for leaks. There are a lot of ways to do this, and one is with the use of a candle. Hold a lit candle at least four inches from the window, and notice if the flame flickers; if it does, great chances you’ve spotted the leak. You can also use an incense stick. Watch the smoke trail as it moves with air current; it will lead you to a leak, if there is.

3. Install weatherstripping to remedy leaks. The type of weatherstripping to use and how to install it depends on the type of your window. You can buy a weatherstripping kit or buy the materials separately. Some of the materials often used are felt, aluminum, and vinyl. Install weatherstripping along frames, sash, and sides, depending on the type of your window.

4. Caulk your windows. Caulking is done to seal any cracks and gaps on your windows. Apply caulk around the frame, sash, or anywhere there is a crack that encourages heat loss. Interior caulking is better, although exterior caulking is also done for weatherproofing. Caulk wears out over time, so it is important to replace and re-apply when winterizing.

5. Cover the windows with shrink plastic. While this doesn’t appeal aesthetically, plastic can be an easy solution to leaky windows. You can cover either the outside or inside windows, although some prefer the latter. With double-sided tapes plastered on the window frames, attach the shrink plastic, which you can buy from home improvement stores, and spread across the windows. Use a hair dryer to shrink and smoothen out the plastic. In place of a shrink plastic, you can use plastic wrap for food.

6. Install blinds. Match it with multi-layered treatments such as vinyl-backed curtains and draperies. This way, you can keep the warm air in and the cold air out. It is recommended to have as much layers as you can to keep more warm air inside. In place of blinds, drapes alone would do just as well in winterizing your windows.