# Winter Window Replacement Checklist: How to Save Energy During Another Bone-Chilling Winter - Link: https://mycoastalwindows.com/winter-window-replacement-checklist/ - Published: 2025-02-06T12:06:22-05:00 - Author: Jeremy Wood Alongside icy forecasts for the 2024-2025 winter season, energy rates are surging. Electricity costs are up by 6% and natural gas has increased by 24%. The key to staying warm while managing costs lies in a **winter window checklist**. From ** double pane windows** to **insulating windows**, preparing now can make all the difference! #### Table of Contents ## Common Checkpoints of Energy Loss in Windows ## ![air inflitration windows](https://mycoastalwindows.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Air-Infiltration-Windows-1.webp) Winter in New England demands a proactive approach to window care. Ensuring your windows are sealed, insulated, and free of damage is essential for keeping your home warm and energy-efficient. ### Air Leakage Points & Sealing Windows Did you know that inefficient windows can lose up to 30% of your home’s energy? One place to determine the performance of your windows is in terms of draftiness, otherwise known as air infiltration. Heat can escape through various points of your windows including: * The sash * The sill * Where the sash meets the sill If you notice drafts in these areas, it’s time to consider replacement as there is not a sufficient seal against the elements. Our windows are 23 times more airtight than most of our competitors, coming with a .01 CFM rating. Only a solid wall is 100% airtight against cold winter weather, but our windows come very close! Meanwhile, if you are putting plastic over your windows to keep out the cold drafts, this is a major red flag that you must replace your windows NOW. Window replacements in your New England home will help cut down on drafts while staying cozy. ### Insulate Your Windows Adding **insulating windows** or upgrading to **triple pane windows** provides better thermal performance. Use foam-backed vinyl frames or insulated glass for optimal efficiency. Complement your efforts with **curtains for winter** to reduce heat transfer and enhance comfort. ## Beat Heat Loss with Energy-Efficient Windows [⌊Online Booking CWE Tool⌉⌊Online Booking CWE Tool⌉ ![winter home colonial yellow siding](https://mycoastalwindows.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2023/12/winter_home_colonial_yellow_siding_windows_roofing_door-1500x998.webp) Energy efficiency is key to managing rising heating costs. By maintaining or upgrading your windows, you can prevent heat loss and improve your home’s overall comfort. ### Quick Window Maintenance Checklist _What are the signs of failing windows in the winter? _Keep an eye out for the following: * **Inspect for damage:** Check for cracks, chips, or loose seals around window panes. These can allow drafts and moisture to seep in, reducing insulation efficiency. * **Examine locks and hardware:** Ensure all locks, hinges, and handles are functioning correctly to maintain a secure and airtight seal. * **Check weatherstripping:** Look for gaps, tears, or signs of wear in the weatherstripping, as damaged materials can let cold air in. * **Seal minor gaps:** Use caulk or sealant to fill any small cracks around the window frame to improve insulation. * **Clean tracks and frames:** Remove dirt and debris from tracks and window frames to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear over time. * **Test for drafts:** On a windy day, run your hand around the edges of the window to feel for air leaks and address them promptly. ### Checking Window Frames Old wood windows need a lot of maintenance. If you discover problems such as warping, mold, or rot, it’s time to replace them before winter arrives. This is because your windows will begin to deteriorate, if they haven’t already. Windows in this condition also can’t properly insulate your home. If your windows are rotting and warped, you are probably seeing light around the frame of your windows. New vinyl replacement windows correctly fitted for your home will improve structural integrity and reduce drafts. Meanwhile, window frames constructed from vinyl with foam in the hollow cavities provide an excellent layer of insulation. Dead air space inside window cavities won’t bring comfort or energy savings. That’s why foam is filled in areas such as the sashes to increase thermal efficiency. This can lead to lower energy bills in the winter and a more comfortable home. ### Winter Window Cleaning (and What to do About Foggy Windows in the Winter) On this winter maintenance checklist, foggy windows might be a serious matter that needs your attention. Condensation is normal in several instances, but not when the fog won’t wipe away. This happens because the fog is inside the glass panes in an area that can’t be accessed, as the seal on the inside has failed. Cloudy windows signal poor performance, and the only way to correct the situation is by replacement. This ensures that the energy-efficient gasses within remain enclosed between the panes, reducing heat transfer during the winter. If your windows are foggy and they won’t wipe clean, know that they are not sufficiently insulating your home. ### Winter Window Replacement If your energy bills are sky-high, it’s a sign that your windows aren’t properly performing. Unfortunately, your energy bills won’t be much better this winter—and they will likely be even worse. While we can’t control gas or electricity costs, you can control the type of replacement windows you choose. For example, upgrading single pane windows to energy-efficient windows can help you save money to the tune of $583 per year. _Yes, we can install windows in the winter!_ ## The Best Window Type for Winter Energy Savings ![energy efficient window](https://mycoastalwindows.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/ 01/energy-efficient-windows-1.webp) Selecting the right window type is essential for maintaining comfort and energy efficiency here in New England. From **double pane windows** to storm options, each choice offers unique benefits. ### Double Pane Windows Double pane windows are a must for insulating against harsh winters. These windows, along with other window styles, trap air or inert gas between two panes of glass, creating an insulating barrier that prevents heat loss and reduces drafts. ### Triple Pane Windows Maximize your energy savings every winter with triple pane windows. With a third chamber of glass, these windows provide more insulation. Krypton gas is typically used with triple pane chambers, which is denser than argon and exceedingly energy efficient. ### Energy Star 7.0 Ratings Want energy efficient windows? Choose windows that meet or exceed Energy Star 7.0 ratings: **U-Factor & SHG Ratings:** | **Climate Zone** | **U-Factor** | **SHGC** | | Northern | 0.23 | >= 0.35 | |   | 0.24 | >= 0.35 | |   | 0.25 | >= 0.40 | |   | 0.26 | >= 0.40 | **Air Leakage Ratings:** | **Product** | **Air Leakage Rating** | | Window, Sliding Door, or Skylight | ≤ 0.3 cfm/ft² | | Swinging Door | ≤ 0.5 cfm/ft² | ### Storm Windows Storm windows are a last resort for insulating your windows. You will be much further ahead if you replace the windows in your home rather than installing storm windows. ## Best Winter Weather Window Accessories Need an extra boost for warmth or energy savings? Accessories can enhance your windows’ efficiency and performance during winter months. ### Window Coverings Adding **curtains for winter** or insulated blinds can minimize heat loss. Heavy drapes help keep warm air inside while blocking cold drafts from entering through the glass. ### Window Weatherstripping Weatherstripping is a simple yet effective solution for sealing gaps and cracks. It’s an affordable way to stop drafts and improve your home’s energy efficiency without major repairs. ### Drafty Windows If your windows rattle in the wind or allow noticeable drafts, it’s time to take action. New windows are tested for water resistance and can withstand winds of up to 56 mph and 8 inches of water per hour, exceeding industry standards. This ensures your home remains warm and secure, even in the harshest conditions. ## Free Estimate: Energy Efficient Window Installation by Coastal Windows & Exteriors Wanting to see [energy efficient window installation](https://mycoastalwindows.com/windows/) in action? See some of our real-life portfolio projects featuring windows that are engineered to keep homes comfortable year-round! * [Replacement windows in Marblehead, MA](https://mycoastalwindows.com/projects/window-installation-in-marblehead-ma/) * [Window installation in Nahant, NH ](https://mycoastalwindows.com/projects/window-installation-in-nahant-ma/) * [Window replacement and James Hardie installation in Marblehead, MA ](https://mycoastalwindows.com/projects/james-hardie-cedarmill-light-mist/) * [Replacement windows and James Hardie siding in Danvers, MA](https://mycoastalwindows.com/projects/hardie-shake-siding-gray-danvers-ma/) Transform your home with[ energy-efficient windows](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_I0yLORzZ4) from Coastal Windows & Exteriors, the #1 woman-owned [window company in New England](https://mycoastalwindows.com/windows/). Our professionally installed windows, rated best for air infiltration, exceed Energy Star 7.0 standards to improve indoor comfort and [reduce drafts](https://mycoastalwindows.com/drafty-windows/). Contact us today for a free estimate and take advantage of financing up to 20 years- free financing and seasonal promotions!