9 Ways to Winterize Your Windows

Are your heating bills skyrocketing each winter? Does your home interior feel cold even when the heater is running? Do your windowpanes rattle when the wind gusts come into contact with them? Are your windows difficult to open or close? 

Keep your Minnesota home warm and cozy this winter by winterizing your windows. When you prep your windows for winter, your home will be more comfortable, frigid drafts will be kept from seeping in, and your utility bills will thank you. 

Let’s dive into practical steps to take to prep your windows for the winter weather just ahead. 

Easy Ways to Winterize Your Windows

1. Seal and Caulk Your Windows

Over time, caulking deteriorates and needs to be replaced in order to properly seal your windows and keep chilly breezes from sneaking into your house. Simply strip off any aging caulk, clean any residue off the area, and install new caulking in its place. 

2. Ensure Your Weather Stripping Is Intact

Next, if your current window’s weather stripping is worn out, new stripping should be added for even greater protection from the elements. Repairing or replacing your current weather stripping blocks out the outside air and keeps your heated air indoors where it belongs. Weather stripping comes in long strips with tape and is easily applied to the bottom of your windows. It is an affordable way to winterize your home and get ready for the Minnesota snow and ice. 

3. Invest in Storm Windows 

Your home needs increased insulation throughout the winter, and this is one of the top ways to winterize your window units. This popular option offers simple installation and removal that doesn’t require hardware! Custom window inserts fit snugly into your current window frames. They create virtually an airtight seal that keeps chilly outdoor temperatures from entering your home. 

This cost-effective solution to winter temperatures will save you up to 20% on utility bills, and add the comfort you desire throughout your house each winter. While there is some effort required on your part to add storm windows to your current window units each winter and take them out when spring arrives, the benefits are many. As a bonus, storm windows will also dampen noise infiltration from the outdoors, enhancing the atmosphere of your house. 

4. Include Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains deliver additional insulation to your home, keeping it warm by trapping any cold air from seeping into your interior. They also dampen noise infiltration, giving you a more peaceful interior environment. This affordable upgrade is a perfect way to prep your home for winter. 

5. Consider Cellular Shades

If you like what thermal curtains can do for your comfort level during the winter, but would prefer a different method to get the same result, consider adding cellular shades (also known as honeycomb shades). Cellular shades are a window treatment made of two layers of fabric fused together to create a honeycomb-shaped structure. The shades trap air, which helps insulate your window and room from outdoor temperatures. They can be custom fitted to your current windows and are so versatile that they can be used throughout the year. This cost-effective solution offers excellent insulating properties and light control, making them a practical window treatment option to enhance winterization. 

6. Invest in Replacement Windows

If your current windows are worn out or simply not performing as they should in spite of the winterization you’ve done in the past, energy-efficient replacement windows may be the best solution. This long-term answer to your home’s comfort level and energy use throughout the year also adds value and beauty to your property. New windows decrease noise from infiltrating your home, creating a more peaceful atmosphere for your enjoyment.  

7. Install Window Film

This thin, plastic material can be easily installed on the inside of your window. Simply cut and apply the film to your window, smooth out any bubbles, and add heat to it with a hairdryer to help it seal. 

8. Add a Draft Snake

This simple winter window cover is a trusted “draft stopper.” It is made of dense material and can block some outside air from entering your home interior. It is laid along the bottom edge of your window on the sill and will discourage chilly breezes from invading. 

9. Install Window Well Covers

If you have a basement with window wells (a recessed area in the ground that surrounds a basement window), consider winterizing your home with well covers. They’ll trap heat inside your basement, prevent drafts, and keep snow buildup in the wells and out of your house. 

Upgrade Your Home with Durable Replacement Windows to Prepare for Winter

Are many of your home’s windows single-paned? Do you feel chilly air seep into your home during the winter? You may need more than winterization of your current windows. You may benefit from replacement windows that will truly shield your home from the below freezing temperatures, high winds, and snow ahead. Get energy-efficient windows that will increase your home’s aesthetics, security, and value. 

At Lutgen Companies, we have been serving Minnesota homeowners since 1983 with premium installations of industry-leading windows, roofing, siding, decks, and more. Choose from wood, composite, vinyl, or fiberglass windows to get the ideal look and function you desire. Learn more about how our window services can enhance your home’s energy efficiency and keep it warm and cozy this winter.