Winter Weather Preparations: How to Get Your Windows Ready

If you've noticed an increase in your gas and electric bills due to the cold weather, it may indicate that your home isn't as airtight as it should be. Winter is an ideal time to inspect for areas where chilly air could be infiltrating, helping to enhance your home's energy efficiency. Windows are often the primary culprits when it comes to drafts, making them the perfect starting point to reduce your energy costs.


By addressing drafty windows, you can save on heating expenses as winter approaches. When windows are rotted or damaged beyond viable repair, replacement tends to be the most cost-effective solution. However, since replacing windows can be expensive and not every window requires immediate attention, consider opting for a temporary fix in the meantime!


Identify the Issue


The first step in addressing drafty windows is to determine where the drafts in your home are coming from. A simple method to detect drafts involves a few easy steps. Begin by ensuring that all windows are securely closed. Then, light a candle and hold it near each window, guiding the flame along the seam. If the flame flickers, it indicates a potential air leak.


Quick Solutions


Once you've identified an air leak, consider one of these four quick fixes to help seal the window: 


  1. Draft Stopper: Use a heavyweight fabric draft stopper on the windowsill or beneath doors to block cold air from seeping through the cracks. 
  2. Curtains: Swapping out lightweight curtains for heavier, more insulating materials can trap air between the layers of fabric, enhancing insulation.
  3. Weather Stripping: An affordable and straightforward option for DIY enthusiasts. You can find the materials for just a few dollars per window at your local hardware store. Cut the strips to the appropriate size and fill the gaps between the window sash and jamb.
  4. Caulking: Inexpensive tubes of caulk can become easier to use with practice. Ensure you caulk both the interior and exterior of the window, where it meets the casing and where the casing meets the wall or siding. 


When to Consider Replacement


While replacing your windows can be costly and may require financial planning, investing in the right windows can lead to long-term savings. For example, Energy Star windows can reduce your energy bills by 7-15%. It's crucial that only a qualified professional installer handles window replacements, as they can identify and rectify drafts while ensuring a proper seal. Look for these signs to determine if your windows need replacing: 


  • Windows that do not open or close effectively. 
  • Condensation forming between window panes. 
  • Windows that are 15-20 years old.
A large house with a tiled roof and arched windows.

Replacement Windows vs. New Construction Options

January 5, 2025
Replacement Windows Replacement windows are precisely what their name implies: they are designed to take the place of an existing window within its current frame. When are they utilized? Replacement windows come into play when an old window needs to be substituted without altering the frame that secures it to the wall. Lacking mounting fins for attachment to the house beneath the siding or trim, they simply fit into the existing frame. This process can be executed at any point, requiring no intrusive remodeling of the exterior walls while still ensuring top-notch window quality—provided you select the right installer. Can they be integrated into a home’s Water Resistant Barrier (WRB)? no, replacement windows cannot be incorporated into the home’s WRB since they connect to an existing frame. New Construction Windows New construction windows feature mounting fins surrounding the frame, which secure them to the house’s framing. When are they utilized? New construction windows are typically installed when there is no siding or trim obstructing the installation (often during an exterior remodel or in a brand-new build). At this stage, with a clear opening available, the mounting fins on the window frames can be securely attached to the structure and linked to the complete WRB. Can they be integrated into a home’s WRB? Yes, the installation of new construction windows requires the mounting fins to be fixed to the house’s framing, thereby making the window a component of the home’s entire Water Resistant Barrier. This installation method results in the most water-tight option available. Both Replacement & New Construction Windows You can't go wrong with either choice; however, one may be more suitable based on your budget and project requirements. Both window types share several similarities that can help you make a more informed decision. What styles are available for both types of windows? Both replacement and new construction windows come in various styles, including single and double-hung, bay, and shaped options, with various materials and color finishes available. Should I opt for replacement or new construction windows for my home project? For homeowners contemplating a significant remodel that includes siding and windows, we recommend choosing new construction windows to ensure that every component of your building envelope is integrated into the same water-tightening system. Conversely, a simple replacement window is the ideal choice for a typical window replacement project without any damage to the frame or walls. Do you still have questions regarding the differences between the two? At Baker Home Exteriors, our dedicated team specializing in windows and doors is eager to assist you in determining the best fit for your project. We would love the opportunity to discuss our window replacement process with you and showcase past projects we've completed. Together, we can identify the perfect solution for your home.
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