Winterize your windows in 4 easy steps

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.

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.

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.

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.