How to Winterize a House

Saving money on your home heating bills is important, especially during these times of rising fuel costs. Let’s face it. The recession isn’t over and it isn’t getting any better but you can lower your heating costs with some simple low cost window and door treatments and a little preventive maintenance.

Some simple ways to winterize your house:

· Check for drafts and heat loss from cracks

· Caulk any cracks in window jams and seals to prevent heat loss

· Install or replace insulation around doors

· Install energy saving window blinds or shades

· Install storm doors and windows

Do an Inventory before You Winterize

Before you go to the hardware store and buy a lot of insulation take a walk through your home and look at your doors and windows. Look for worn out insulation around door frames and cracks or warped door jams and window sills for places where air can leak.

The point of this exercise is to get the most out of your winterizing buck. Get the greatest money savings from simple low cost repairs. A caulking gun and premium caulk , like DAP Dynaflex 3.0, or GE Silicone II Window and Door caulk will do the job. This simple repair when combined with energy saving window treatments will significantly reduce your home heating costs.

Window Treatments-winterize by eliminating heat loss

There are several ways to reduce heating costs by covering your windows. One simple step is to install energy saving blinds or window shades. These types of window treatments trap the air in between the window glass and the blind to create an insulating layer of air. The trapped air makes a barrier to reduce heat loss through the window glass.

One of the most effective energy saving window treatments is the double honeycomb design window blind. The Duette Architella manufactured by Hunter Douglas combines two layers of bind material made in a honeycomb design that works so efficiently it has the highest R factor in the industry.

One other thing to remember is that south facing windows should be uncovered on sunny winter days to make the best use of solar heat gain through the windows. Installing Mylar energy film on south facing windows will prevent the heat from radiating back out through the windows.

Storm Windows-a long lasting and economical way to winterize

In areas where the cold is the worst you should consider installing storm windows and doors or an interior Window Shrink Film Kit. Low cost plastic insulation kits are easy to install and remove and cost less than traditional storm windows.

An Indoor window kit contains everything you need to insulate five standard 3-by-5-foot windows and usually costs about ten dollars. Heat from a blow dryer causes the film to shrink and form a tight seal over the window.

Storm windows for your home can cost more but are a good long term investment. They are installed at the beginning of the winter and taken down in the spring time. Available in wood or aluminum materials, storm windows have been a good way to keep homes warm in cold climates for many years.

Storm windows for interior installation are easier to install and remove. They also offer the benefit of costing less than exterior storm windows. Check with your local hardware or home improvement store for the most cost effective options for your home or apartment.