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Weatherizing your windows is the process of sealing up any drafty areas and providing extra insulation to keep the cold out during the winter months in Indianapolis. There are several different ways you can go about weathering your windows, but you ultimately want a solution that looks good and is easy to remove in the summer time.
Caulking is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to start sealing up your home for the winter. We recommend working your way from the back of your house all the way around to the front, making sure to seal each window from the outside. Make sure you get every window, including the basement windows, for maximum effect. Simply apply the caulking around the edge of the frame to close up any pinholes that have appeared over the years. This task can be time consuming, but it will also be the biggest energy saver for you.
Just note that trying to weatherize DIY style might void the warranty on the windows. Please consult with your window provider first.
In addition to leaks that appear between the window frame and the rest of the house, you will also discover that some leaks appear between the window glass and the window frame. You can solve this by applying glazing along the edges of the window panes to re-seal them.
Most windows these days come with soft brush-like seals that keep dirt and insects from getting in through the moving parts. However, this is not quite the same as a weather–tight seal. You can get weather stripping and cut it down to size. The foam can be placed in the bottom track of the window, so that with the window tightly shut and locked, there is no more gap. It can also be placed where the two parts of the window come together to provide a tighter seal.
Adding plastic film is another quick way of weatherizing your windows. This creates an extra air gap that insulates your home against the cold. Simply apply the kit according to the directions, and then shrink the film using a hair dryer to seal it off tightly.
Unfortunately, window film is not exactly the prettiest thing to look at in your living spaces. You can solve this problem by putting up heavy drapes that are aesthetically pleasing. Heavy drapes will also help catch any other tiny drafts that may find their way through your windows after all the other work is done.
The good news is that weatherizing your windows in Indianapolis is actually very inexpensive. It will take a day of diligent work depending on how many windows you have, but you will save far more on your heating bill for having done it. Even if you already have energy efficient windows in place, it is still worthwhile to inspect your windows and seal up any holes during this time.
You may determine that weatherizing your windows won’t solve your energy issues. Renewal by Andersen can help you during an in-home consultation by evaluating your replacement window needs. Just give us a call and we will help you take the steps you need to take to make your home warm and cozy this winter.