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The Arctic cold is creeping in again in the northern hemisphere which means we're all cranking up the heat. Nice as the heater is, you might be losing a good bit of heat -- and with it money spent generating more heat -- if your windows aren't properly sealed.
If you have an older house, chances are your windows drain quite a bit of heat to the outside world. It would be nice if that leaking heat would simply make it feel like Spring outside, but since that doesn't work, here's out guide to weatherproofing your windows.
== Buy new energy efficient windows ==
If you're burning money logs in the fireplace then this upgrade is for you. New, energy efficient windows will ensure that your house stays warmer without the hassles of sealing, taping plastic or any of other techniques we'll cover.
Unfortunately, installing all new windows isn't cheap and takes a considerable amount of time and effort. If you're looking for something a bit more budget friendly, read on.
== Install storm windows ==
Storm windows are essentially a second piece of glass fitted over your existing windows. There are both outside storm windows and inside, though the former tends to be the more popular choice.
Storm windows give you some of the benefits of energy efficient windows (like double paned glass for better insulation) without the cost of installing new windows.
Storm windows are also a popular solution for those with older houses, where old windows are part of the charm.
Installing storm windows isn't difficult, just head to your local big box home improvement store and pick up a few storm windows that fit your existing windows. Then grab a drill and screw driver and mount to storm windows according to the instructions that came with them.
== Tape and seal ==
If you don't want to go the storm windows route, the cheapest option is to simply improve on your existing windows. Give you windows a thorough inspection, if there are and cracked panes replace then or seal them with caulk. Check the putty around the edges of the glass and seal any cracked or missing areas.
The next step is get some weather stripping and seal the edges of your windows. Weather stripping is cheap and will go a long way toward keeping out those drafty flows of outside air. Be sure to buy the self-adhesive variety, which makes for easy installation. The drawback to weather stripping is that you won't be able to open your windows, but you probably won't be doing that until spring anyway.
Finally, head to your local home improvement store and buy some windows plastic. Tape the plastic around your windows and use a hair drier to tighten the plastic. It might not be the prettiest solution, but it will cut your heating bill down to size.
Also, if you have curtains, be sure to close them at night -- the more insulation around your windows they warmer you'll be.
== Conclusion ==
Winter isn't cheap, but with a few inexpensive fixes, you can stop the chill from coming indoors and sending your heating bill through the roof.
Image possibilities:
poorly sealed windows: http://www.flickr.com/photos/clintjcl/4809701462/
storm windows: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hillsdalehouse/1795065154/
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