With the winter around the corner, you need to prepare your windows to be able to withstand the cold and keep your indoor warm. Winter cold can hit your home hard if your windows and doors are drafty. As a result, you must fortify your windows correctly to be able to endure the harsh elements.

There are quite some steps you can take to prepare your windows and doors well ahead of the winter to have a hassle-free winter experience.

Repair Damages Exterior Trim

Your wooden window frames may have been damaged by water penetration, which will allow cold air to leak into your home. With the winter on the way, your home will be affected severely if you leave the damage not repaired. As a result, repair the cracked and damaged wood in readiness for winter to prevent cold air leak into your home.

Reapply Sealant or Caulk

Some areas around your windows may have cracked due to exposure to the harsh elements. The caulk or sealant may have broken, thereby making your windows drafty. Reseal all the cracked areas with caulk or sealant to eliminate the possibilities of experiencing drafty windows throughout the winter. This is a perfect option if your windows are still in good structural condition.

Replace Worn Weather Stripping

You should replace the damaged or missing rubber weather stripping on your windows and doors. Worn or missing weatherstripping will undoubtedly let cold air into your home during the winter. The energy efficiency of your home will reduce drastically, and you will incur higher energy bills to the overworking HVAC unit to keep your home warm. Purchase high-quality strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing and install around your windows and doors.

Clean Your Windows

As part of your efforts in preparing your windows for winter, ensure to clean the sills of your windows and other moving parts. Dirt, sand, or leaves may have been caught in the sills and other components. Clean and remove the dirt carefully for the smooth operation of your windows and doors during the winter.

Replace the Windows

Window replacement is the perfect option if your existing windows have become so drafty that no amount of repairs could improve their efficiency. You can also consider window replacement if you intend to enhance the curb appeal of your home. With new designs, styles, and top quality materials used for replacement windows, your home will be fully fortified against the winter cold.

The tips above are good enough to prepare your windows for winter. Windows and doors are crucial to your comfort during the winter. Keep them in top structural condition.