Tips

Winterize your windows in 4 easy steps

Chilly weather is right around the corner. Before you hunker down for the season, take these simple steps to winterize your windows.

Fall light streams through large black framed windows into a dining room.

A little bit of window and door maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your home cozy and your energy bills in check all through the winter. Not only that, but regular maintenance can also help keep your windows and doors operating properly in the long run. Are you convinced yet? Let’s get started!

1. Put your windows to bed for the winter (i.e., clean them and store your insect screens)

Here’s our recommended process:

  1. Remove and clean your insect screens
  2. Clean your windows
  3. Store your insect screens upright or flat in a clean, dry area.

Tip: Properly storing your insect screens each season will help protect them from ice and other damage. For more detailed instructions, visit our Help Center.

A woman cleans her sliding patio doors.

2. Make sure windows and doors are properly sealed to limit drafts

Drafts can increase your home’s energy use each year. Check on the insulation of your windows and doors by taking these three simple steps:

  • Inspect weatherstripping for any gaps or damage. Find more information on replacing your weatherstrip, here.
  • Inspect the exterior sealant for signs of age, cracking or other damage. 
  • Make sure all windows and doors are fully closed and locked. Windows that are closed and locked provide a tighter seal and greater energy efficiency. As you operate your windows, take note if they are closing hard or unevenly. These are signs that adjustments might be needed. A window that is not square will not seal properly. If your windows need attention, we can help you find a local service provider.
A woman opens her window.
Check how your windows are operating and note any difficulties as they might be signs adjustments are needed.  

3. Control window condensation by reducing humidity

Condensation appears when warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces, like a cold drink on a hot summer day or your window on a cold winter day. Condensation on your window’s interior can block the view, drip on the floor, or freeze on the glass. If you’re noticing any of these issues, it’s a sign the humidity levels are too high inside your home (30 to 35% is recommended during the winter months). Check your thermostat, as it may monitor the humidity level. If not, you can buy an inexpensive tool called a hygrometer to see your humidity levels.

Here are a few ways to reduce indoor humidity:

  • Check your ventilation.
  • Use a dehumidifier.
  • Turn the humidifier on your furnace down (or off).
  • Keep blinds or curtains open during the day.
  • Leave ceiling fans on to promote air movement.
  • Use an exhaust fan in bathroom areas when showering.

Tip: It's important to note where condensation is appearing. If you notice fog in between the panes of glass on a dual-pane window, it’s a sign of seal failure and an indication that you need to replace the window.

4. Invest in long-term solutions

If you’re ready for a more permanent solution, window replacement can help reduce costs on your monthly energy bills, improve the comfort of your home, and even increase real estate value — realtors agree that Andersen® windows and doors increase the value of a home by at least 15%.* 

Plus, windows and doors can be installed at any time — regardless of the season. Here are a few options to be aware of:

  • ENERGY STAR® certified windows will not only improve the comfort of your home year-round, they can also reduce your monthly energy bills. For example, replacing single-hung windows reduces bills by an average of 13% nationwide.** These windows can help reduce both heating and cooling costs through the use of climate-appropriate glass options.
  • Andersen® Narroline® conversion kits are a great option if your home has Narroline double-hung windows that were made from 1968 to 2013.These double-hung conversion kits can turn older windows into convenient, tilt-wash double-hung windows with high-performance Low-E4® glass that’s 45% more energy efficiency in the winter months.*** To identify if the products in your home are Narroline windows, use our Identify Your Product tool.
A cozy living room with natura light streaming through the windows and a fire in the hearth.
Replacement windows can blend in seamlessly with your existing home and some options even allow you to preserve your original woodwork.
*2022 Andersen brand survey of U.S. realtors and their experience for the homes they sell
**Winter values are based on comparison of Andersen® double-hung window conversion kit U-Factor to the U-Factor for clear dual pane glass non-metal frame default values from the 2 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2018 International Energy Conservation Code "Glazed Fenestration" Default Tables.
***Winter values are based on comparison of Andersen® double-hung window conversion kit U-Factor to the U-Factor for clear dual pane glass non-metal frame default values from the 2 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2018 International Energy Conservation Code "Glazed Fenestration" Default Tables. 

Next up: Start envisioning your new windows!

A white home with new black windows is snug against the snowy, cold landscape outside.

Tips

How to pick out energy-efficient windows

No matter if you’re trying to keep heat in, out, or both — depending on the time of year, the right windows can help reduce energy use and make it less expensive to keep your home comfortable. 
Replacement contractor showing clients a window model in a kitchen

Tips

How getting replacement windows works

Ready to say goodbye to your old windows but not sure how a window project works? You’ve come to the right place! We’re here to explain the major milestones in a window replacement project. 
An exterior shot of a black barn-inspired addition featuring three sets of black E-Series Hinged Patio Doors and a deck with seating and potted plants.

Design it

Design your perfect patio door

Design a patio door that matches your style.  We'll show you what it will look like so you can make sure to get the perfect fit.

More answers to your winterization questions

Sign up for emails

Get inspiration delivered

Beautiful projects, useful selection tips, and tools for planning your project — get it all in your inbox.