How-To

Winterizing Your Windows & Doors

Preparing your windows and doors for the coldest time of the year will keep your home warmer and more energy efficient.

With our Minnesota headquarters located in one of the northernmost points of the continental U.S., we understand the impact cold weather, snow, and ice can have on a home and the importance of winterizing windows and doors.

The last thing you want in the winter is cold air seeping in and the sky-high heating bill that comes with it. Preparing your windows and doors for the coldest months of the year will help keep your home warmer and more energy efficient. Here’s how to do it.

Woman sitting in front of Marvin Signature Ultimate awning narrow frame window Ultimate Awning Narrow Frame window

How to Winterize Windows

1. Prep

The first step is to clean your windows in the fall, which will help you identify any potential deterioration. Give windows and frames a thorough inspection and note any repair needs.

2. Check for drafts and gaps

Shine a halogen-type flashlight around your windows to look for areas where the light may be seen from the other side of the window. Be sure to seal any existing gaps with caulk, new weatherstripping, or foam. Keeping windows locked can also help close spaces where air can leak through.

3. Reglaze as needed

If your home has older wooden window frames, be sure to check for loose panes and missing sections of glaze. Reglaze the panes as needed to improve performance.

4. Consider if it’s time to replace old windows

Old or inefficient windows could have the same effect on your heating bill as leaving a window open all winter long. Replacing old windows with newer energy-efficient ones can help reduce your utility bill by keeping heat inside your home.

How to Winterize a Door

As you may have guessed, winterizing your doors have many of the same steps as winterizing windows. Do a thorough cleaning and inspection in the fall, check for drafts, and inspect the weatherstripping. In addition, keep doors locked whenever possible to ensure a tight seal. Another consideration is adding a draft guard or storm door to help with heat-loss in the harsher winter months.

Window Condensation in Winter

Don’t worry if you see condensation on your windows in the winter. Condensation is one sign that your windows are performing as designed and assisting with maintaining the temperature inside your home. To prevent sitting water, ensure your home maintains airflow and avoid blocking windows with heavy curtains, indoor plants, or décor.

There are a few other ways to keep your home warm in the winter. If you live in an extremely cold climate or have single pane or drafty windows, a plastic window shrink kit can do wonders for keeping cold air out and warm air in. (Though it also may mean it’s time to consider replacing your windows.

If your windows have curtains and/or blinds, open them while your home gets direct sunlight to help warm your space. But the opposite is also true: be sure to close the curtains and blinds when it’s extra cold outside for an extra layer of protection.

With a few simple steps and some regular maintenance, you can help your windows and doors perform their best, even on the harshest winter days.

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