Winters in the GTA are no laughing matter; from freezing temperatures, to hail and snowstorms and wind chills that numb your bones. Fortunately, most of us can escape to the warmth and comfort of our homes and forget about winter temperatures temporarily. However, just as you winterize your car with winter tires, you need to prepare your home for winter weather conditions to ensure it protects you all season long.
Your home’s windows and doors are one of its key forms of defence against the weather, but they’ll only be able to protect your home if they are winterized. Check out what you need to ensure your windows are storms remain the first line of defence.
How To Winterize Windows
Certain solutions are necessary to winterize windows specifically to ensure they’re durable. Here are some of the options:
- Install Storm Windows: Although storm windows do not provide insulation, they effectively prevent air from penetrating single-pane windows. You can invest in high-quality glass for the windows to reduce the transmission of heat. Interior storm windows are much easier to clean and maintain than exterior storm windows.
- Invest In Updated Windows: It may be time for you to update your windows entirely if you’ve experienced cold drafts in the air in your home. Purchase windows that have a low leakage rating because this means the windows will have a much tighter, secure seal.
- Proper Caulking/Sealing: During the window installation, it’s important to ensure the windows are properly caulked and sealed around the trim on the exterior to reduce air from leaking through. Direct Pro professional window installers guarantee a seamless installation to ensure your windows are durable and keeping your home warm.
How To Winterize Doors
If your doors have been letting in unwanted drafts, it’s important to winterize them using the following options:
- Weather Stripping: Try weather stripping the door jam or having the insulation that is there removed to have foam insulation replaced there and then trimmed.
- Door Gaskets: In addition to weather stripping, you can opt to have mounted gaskets installed to stop any mould on the door frame from developing. This adds further protection and seal to the door to protect it further.
- Buy New Door: If you have an older home or an older door, it is in your best interest financially to replace it with an updated, energy-efficient model. Doors that have a higher R-value may be better suited to protect against winter weather, and the R-value measures the adequacy of the insulation and the higher R-value, the more effective the insulation. Direct Pro fibreglass doors are extremely durable and offer effective insulation.
Direct Pro provides high-quality exterior doors and windows, front doors, a vast selection of windows and other related services for your home. We guarantee the best rates on windows and doors for energy-efficiency and ensure meticulous and efficient window and door installation. Need a free quote on one of our products? Contact us at contact-us.