Did you know that windows are the source of some of the biggest energy losses in St. Louis area homes? Although you might think you can block out cold winter air by simply closing your windows, many windows have cracks and openings that allow that air to get inside and affect your home’s comfort and efficiency levels. Today we’re going to talk about why sealing your windows for winter is a good idea and go over two of the best strategies for sealing the windows in your home!
Why do windows need to be sealed?
Because your windows open up directly to the outdoors, they must be completely sealed when they are closed to prevent cold winter air from getting into your home. Unfortunately, many homes have air leaks in the areas around their windows that create cold drafts and force their furnaces to work overtime.
Air leaks can develop in several different places around your windows, including their frames, their trims, and in the areas around moving parts. As you’ll see below, these leaks can be addressed in a couple of different ways.
Sealing windows with weatherstripping
One of the main problems with windows is that they are loose-fitting when they are closed. The best way to solve this problem is to apply weatherstripping around all of your windows’ moving parts.
Weatherstripping is a roll-out product with adhesive on one side that you can use to line the bottom, sides, and top of your windows in the areas where they slide open and closed. There are many different kinds of weatherstripping (including both removable and more permanent products) that can be found at your local hardware store. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions to ensure that you apply it properly to your windows.
Sealing windows with caulk
Air leaks can also develop around the frames and trims of your windows both inside and outside of your home. One of the best ways to seal off these cracks and openings is to close them up with caulk. Like weatherstripping, many different kinds of caulk can be purchased at your local hardware store. Products are available for both outdoor and indoor use, and some products are made specifically to be painted over so you can hide them from view. Again, be sure to follow the product’s instructions to ensure that you apply it properly.
Sealing windows for winter will improve furnace efficiency
By sealing your windows with the strategies listed above, your furnace will consume less energy while heating your home. This, along with scheduling an annual tune-up, is one of the best ways to improve your home’s efficiency this winter!
If you have any questions about sealing your windows for winter, or if you’d like a heating system serviced or installed in your home, contact Jerry Kelly Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical and Plumbing, your St. Charles, MO, heating and cooling contractor. We service the St. Louis area, including towns like Clayton, Cottleville, and Creve Coeur.