How to Treat Windows for Heat & Cold

Hang blinds and drapes to decrease the amount of sunlight and heat in your home. The experts at This Old House note that shades, curtains and blinds can also reduce the amount of heat that is lost during the colder months.

Inspect windows for air leaks by either hiring a professional to do an energy audit or checking for drafts yourself. You can depressurize your home by turning off the furnace on a cool and windy day. Turn off all indoor fans and make sure that all windows and doors are closed. Light an incense stick and pass it in front of all the windows. If the smoke is sucked toward the outside or blown into the room, you need to seal the window.

Caulk and weatherstrip all the windows in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, weatherstripping and caulking your windows and other entries pays for itself within a year due to its effectiveness in controlling air flow. Always apply caulk in warm, dry weather and apply weatherstripping between the window frame and the sash to allow the window to open and close.