How to Prepare Your Windows for Winter Weather

How to Prepare Your Windows for North Carolina Winter Weather

As the temperature drops and you begin feeling the chill, it’s crucial to get your home ready for North Carolina’s unique winter weather conditions. This region experiences relatively mild winters compared to some, but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to drafts and heat loss. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare your windows for North Carolina’s winter, whether you’re dealing with occasional cold snaps or more prolonged chilly periods.

 

Detecting Drafts

Before you can make your home cozier and more energy-efficient, you need to identify where drafts are coming from. Here’s a simple method:

1. Start by ensuring all your windows are closed.
2. Take a candle and hold it next to each window, moving it along the seam.
3. If the flame flickers, it’s a clear sign of an air leak.
   
   

Quick Fixes for Drafty Windows

Once you’ve found the drafts, you can opt for one of these cost-effective temporary solutions to seal your windows:

1. Weather Stripping: An affordable and DIY-friendly choice. You can find weather stripping materials for just a few dollars per window at your local hardware store. Cut the strips to size and use them to fill the gaps between the window sash and jamb.
   
   
2. Caulking: Inexpensive and easy to use with a bit of practice. Apply caulk both inside and outside the window, sealing where the window meets the casing and where the casing meets the wall or siding material.
   
   
3. Draft Stopper: Place a heavy fabric draft stopper on the windowsill or under the door to block cold air from entering through the gaps.
   
4. Curtains: Consider replacing lightweight curtains with thicker, insulating curtain material. These curtains trap air between their layers, providing extra insulation to keep your home cozy.

 

When to Know It’s Time for Replacement

While these quick fixes can help, you should also be aware of when your windows need more than a temporary solution:

1. Difficulty Opening or Closing: If your windows no longer open or close properly, it’s a sign they need replacement. This could impact your comfort and home’s security.
   
   
2. Condensation Between Panes:  When you notice condensation forming between the window panes, it’s an indication of a failed seal, which reduces energy efficiency.
3. Aging Windows:  If your windows have been in place for 15-20 years, they might not provide the insulation you need to combat North Carolina’s occasional winter chills. Upgrading to Energy Star windows can reduce your energy bills by 7-15%, which makes them a valuable investment.

In North Carolina, window preparation for winter is about finding the right balance. The winters may be milder, but you still need to ensure your home is cozy and energy-efficient. Follow the steps to identify drafts and use temporary fixes as needed, and consider a window replacement when your existing windows are beyond repair.

 

Ready to Make Your Home Winter-Ready in North Carolina?

Don’t let winter catch you unprepared. Ensure your home is cozy and energy-efficient for North Carolina’s unique winter weather conditions. If you’re looking to protect your home and your finances by improving your roofing for the season, we’re here to help!

Contact American Roofing & Construction today for a FREE ESTIMATE tailored to North Carolina’s weather challenges.  Our experts are ready to assist you in making your home winter-ready. You can reach us at Southern Pines (910) 964-0114 or Raleigh at (919) 917-2118 or click here to request your free estimate now. Don’t wait; secure your home’s comfort and energy efficiency this winter with American Roofing & Construction!