Using Windows and Doors Correctly to Keep Warm This Winter
Keeping your home warm this winter will not only keep you and your family comfortable but will help maximise its energy efficiency. Windows and doors can be a way of keeping your home warm, but they can also be the cause of draughts. This blog will look at why it’s so important to prepare your windows and doors for winter, how to identify issues, and how to resolve them, as well as ways to make your home even more energy efficient.
Why Winterising Your Windows and Doors Matters
Cold air and draughts can have a negative impact on your home during the winter months. Not only do they make your house feel cold, but they can also increase your heating bills significantly. Many of these draughts can be attributed to ill-fitting or poorly insulated windows and doors. However, just a few small improvements can considerably improve the feel of your home and help reduce energy consumption and consequently, your bills.
Identifying Drafts and Cold Spots
Before you can rectify any draughts, you need to identify where they are coming from. Problem areas can include window and door frames, letter boxes, and cracks. By simply using your hand or a candle you will be able to feel, or see, where draughts are coming from. You can then decide on the best way to rectify any issues.
How to Seal Doors and Windows for Winter
So what is the best way to seal doors and windows and prevent draughts? Below are a few suggestions which are effective yet do not require any invasive or technical reovations.
Quick Fixes for Common Gaps
- Caulk: Caulk is a flexible material that is used to seal thin gaps, cracks, or joints. This makes it perfect for sealing areas around door or window frames to prevent air leaks.
- Weather stripping: Weatherstripping is best used around movable features, such as doors and windows. It is simple to install and an effective way of fixing draughts..
- Adhesive seals: Adhesive seals are similar to weather stripping and is perfect for use around doors.
- Draught excluder: Whilst only a temporary solution, a simple draught excluder along the bottom of a door can help to keep draughts out a room.
How to Insulate Doors and Windows in the Winter
As well as sealing your windows and doors, there are also simple ways to insulate them during the winter months to keep your home warm and comfortable and your energy bills low.
- Thermal curtains: Thermal curtains are a fantastic way of insulating both windows and doors. They keep draughts from entering the home, helping to keep rooms warm and comfortable.
- Insulated blinds: Modern blinds offer so much more than just colour and style. Insulated blinds can help to keep your home warm and cozy.
- Double or triple glazing: If your budget stretches to new windows, then it is worth considering installing double or triple glazing. This glazing will ensure warm air remains within the house and cold air out.
Using the Hidden Winter Switch for Maximum Heat Retention
Some modern windows feature summer and winter settings. This refers to the settings of the fasteners on the window. In summer mode, the window allows air to circulate inside your home, keeping it fresh in warmer weather. In the winter setting, the fasteners are completely closed and tightly adhere to the frame. This prevents draughts from entering the house, keeping it warm and dry.
Maintaining Your Windows and Doors
Maintaining your doors and windows on a regular basis is an effective way of preventing draughts from developing. Monitoring the seals of your windows and doors means you will be able to spot a deteriorating or damaged seal before it causes any lasting issues. Keeping your windows and doors clean, particularly the tracks, will ensure they continue to work correctly and give you an opportunity to examine them for any damage. Correctly fitted seals and insulation will make sure that your home is warm and energy efficient.
Energy Efficiency Beyond Windows and Doors
In addition to correctly sealing your windows and doors, there are other ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Roof and wall insulation, radiator positioning to maximise their heat, draught proofing floors and ensuring correct ventilation will all help to enhance the energy efficiency of your home and keep it warm and comfortable throughout the winter months.
Speak to National Plastics for Winterising Advice
To ensure your home is ready for winter, call our expert friendly team today on 0800 22 77 77 for a no obligation chat about which products will help you and your home keep warm and energy efficient
