Awning Windows
Bay/Bow Windows
Casement Windows
Double Hung
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Entry Doors
Patio Doors
Fall is the best time to check your windows and doors. The weather is still mild, small fixes are easy to make, and you’ll know before the first cold snap whether anything needs more attention.
Check for drafts
On a breezy day, hold your hand near the edges of each window and door. You can also watch a candle flame or a strip of tissue for movement. Note any spots where you feel air coming in.
Look at the weatherstripping and caulk
Cracked, flattened or missing weatherstripping is one of the most common sources of drafts. On the outside, look for gaps or cracked caulk where the window and door frames meet the siding or brick.
Clean the tracks and test the locks
Vacuum out window tracks and door sills, then open, close and lock each window and door. Locking a window does more than secure it — on many styles it also pulls the sash tight against the weatherstripping.
Swap screens for storm panels if you have them
If your home has storm windows or a storm door, now is the time to put the glass panels in. Check them for cracks while you’re at it.
Watch for condensation
A little condensation on the inside of the glass on a very cold morning can be normal, especially in a humid room. But fog between the panes, or frost and ice on the inside of the frame, are signs the window isn’t insulating well.
Know when it’s more than maintenance
- Frames that are soft, rotted or cracked
- Fog between the panes that won’t clear
- Drafts that come back after new weatherstripping
- Windows or doors that won’t close or lock properly
If you’re seeing any of these, it may be time to think about replacement. Our team installs year-round, and we’re happy to take a look and give you a free estimate.
