It’s getting cold out there! The first few weeks of February are set to blanket Canada in a polar vortex, which means that if you’re already wearing a blanket around the house, it might be time to step up your game. Of course, no one wants to spend a fortune on their heating bill, and there are only so many layers of clothing you can wear before your ability to move your arms is impeded. So what can you do to help your home stay warmer during the colder periods of the winter season?
You might be surprised to learn that the windows and doors you already have in your home are ready and waiting to go to work for you. All it takes to keep you home cozier in the winter months is knowing how to utilize the resources you have available, and today, we’re going to walk you through some of the easiest and most effective ways to help maximize heat retention in your home.
1. If there are gaps around the frame, fill them in.
Cold weather is persistent, and if there are any gaps at all around the frame of your door or window, you can bet that some of that frigid outside air is seeping into your home. An easy way to instantly make your home warmer is to seal off those gaps. You can use caulk if you’re not planning on removing it, but there is also weather stripping and adhesive foam that you can attach instead. If you need to open your windows in the spring, but want to secure them for now, you can use a temporary caulk to seal up the gaps now and then peel it off later when you’re ready to let the warm spring air in.
Bear in mind that caulking or sealing your door or window frame is only a short-term solution. Ideally, your windows and doors should have originally been installed in such a way that there are no gaps to begin with, but if not you may need to consider shopping for a replacement in the spring.
2. Lock your windows.
It’s true – the locks installed on your windows aren’t just for security. They can actually help you stay warm too! For extra protection against the cold, go ahead and lock your windows shut. The locking mechanism makes the sashes close more securely, which also helps to eliminate any gaps that might be left. These gaps are what allow cold or hot air to sneak through, so by making sure they’re locked, you’re battening down the hatches against energy loss, which will help your house stay at whatever temperature you want it to be.
3. Make your door nice and snug.
You probably use your front or garage door fairly often (after all, that’s what they’re designed for!), but in the winter, you may be using them less often. The gaps at the top and bottom of your doors (even your garage door) can let in cold air, so outfit them with a removable draft stopper or a rolled-up towel to help keep drafts out.
You’ll also want to minimize the amount of time that your doors are left open since it only takes a few seconds for an open door to lower the temperature of the entire house on a cold day. If you’re coming in from the garage, make sure the garage door is completely closed before you enter your home. If you’re coming in from the front entryway, plan ahead by making sure the area inside is clear of any debris or blockages, and give yourself a place to put belongings temporarily so you can quickly close the door behind you.
Say Goodbye to Drafts With Replacement Windows or Doors
If your home is as snug as you can possibly make it and you still find yourself wearing a toque around the kitchen, it might be time to replace that drafty window or door. You’ll find the selection you’ve been looking for at Kempenfelt Windows & Doors. Our award-winning service has made us a household name in the Barrie area (in fact, you’ve probably seen our work in your own neighbourhood without realizing it!).
For more information on our window, garage door or door installation, give us a call at (705) 737-1554. You can also send us a message or request a free quote online.
