Whilst winter is a beautiful time of year, the weather can often be challenging. The colder months bring wind, rain, frost, and sometimes even snow. When it gets chilly outside, it’s always nice to come back to a warm, cosy home. Unfortunately, poorly maintained windows and doors can bring the chill inside too! That’s why it’s important to make sure the doors and windows of your property are ready for the cold weather this year. Here are a few things to consider.
Sealant
You may find that drafts are coming in through the edges of your fittings. If this is the case, then you may need to use a sealant. There are many different types of sealant available on the market. Popular types include: plastic, foam, rubber, and putty. Most will need to be cut to size and different types will be suitable for different windows and doors. It’s a good idea to do some research first to find the best type for you. If you’re at all unsure, you can always hire a professional to come and seal everything for you!
Glazing
Perhaps one of the most common ways of insulating a home is through window glazing. Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass, separated by an area of trapped air. The air acts as an insulating barrier between the inner and outer panes of the window. Well-installed double-glazing should last for at least 20 years, making it a good long-term solution. For more information, check out our blog article on double-glazing here.
Draft excluders
If you’re looking for a temporary solution to reduce door drafts, try a draft excluder. This is a popular, low-tech option that’s inexpensive and simple to implement. A draft excluder sits at the foot of your door, blocking the gap between the bottom edge and the floor. The most popular type of draft excluder is a stuffed ‘sausage’ shape but this isn’t the only option. Others include brush and foam excluders. Draft excluders are fairly simple to construct, so you could even save some cash by making your own.
Curtains and blinds
You can also use your décor to help keep out the chill. Simply hanging the right type of curtains can make a difference to the warmth of your home. Thick materials will provide a more substantial barrier between the windows and the room. You can also purchase ‘thermal curtains’, which have a layer of thermal fabric sewn into them. These are a great option because of the flexibility they provide. As the thermal layer sits within the curtain, you’re free to choose an outer layer that suits your décor. It’s also worth giving some thought to the length of your curtains. If your windows sit above a radiator, ensure that your curtains don’t hang down in front of it. Covering the radiator in this way will direct heat up behind the curtains, rather than out into the room.
If you prefer using window shades, another option is to invest in cellular blinds. These are made from two layers of fabric, with ‘cells’ of air in between them. From the side, this creates a unique pattern, earning them the secondary name ‘honeycomb blinds’. The trapped air in each cell retains heat, adding to the warmth within your room.
[Photos by WebTrooper and Hans]