Introduction:

As the temperatures begin to cool and the leaves start to change, fall is the perfect time to prepare your windows and doors for the colder months ahead. After a long summer of heat and frequent use, your windows and doors might have suffered some wear and tear. Now is the time to inspect, clean, and make any necessary repairs to ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient throughout the winter.

With Ontario winters bringing freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, fall maintenance is essential for keeping drafts out and preventing moisture from seeping in. Simple tasks like cleaning off summer grime, replacing worn-out weatherstripping, and sealing cracks with fresh caulk can go a long way in protecting your windows and doors. Taking these steps not only improves your home’s comfort but also helps lower your heating bills by reducing energy loss.

This guide will walk you through the key maintenance tasks you should tackle this fall to ensure your windows and doors are ready to face winter head-on. With a little attention now, you can avoid bigger problems when the snow starts to fall.

DIY Inspection Tips

1. Check for Warping or Fading: Heat and UV rays can cause vinyl and wood frames to warp or fade over time. Walk around your home and inspect the exterior of your windows and doors for any signs of distortion or discoloration. Wood frames, in particular, may show signs of swelling or cracking due to moisture absorption.
2. Inspect for Cracked or Peeling Paint: For homes with wooden windows and doors, inspect the paint for peeling, chipping, or cracking. Exposed wood can absorb moisture, leading to rot and structural issues when winter hits. If you spot any of these issues, sanding and repainting might be necessary.
3. Look for Gaps or Damaged Seals: Summer storms can damage seals or weatherstripping around your windows and doors. Check for any gaps, cracks, or worn-out seals that may allow air and moisture to seep in. These gaps are easy to spot by running your hand along the edges to feel for drafts.
4. Examine the Glass: Strong storms can also damage the glass, causing chips or cracks. Inspect the glass in all your windows and doors for any signs of damage. Small chips or cracks can grow larger as temperatures drop, so it’s important to fix them before the winter freeze.

Pro Tips for Advanced Issues

1. Professional Seal and Frame Repair: If you notice any significant warping, cracking, or damage to your window or door frames, especially in wooden or older homes, it’s a good idea to call in a professional. Vinyl frames can be particularly tricky to repair if they’ve warped from heat, as they may need to be replaced to ensure proper sealing.
2. Glass Replacement: If you discover cracks in the glass, even small ones, it’s best to consult a professional glazier. Tiny cracks can expand when exposed to the cold, leading to further damage. A professional can repair or replace the glass to ensure it remains energy-efficient and secure before winter.
3. Weatherproofing Consultations: If your home is older or you’ve noticed multiple areas of concern, a weatherproofing consultation from a professional can help identify and address less obvious issues. This ensures your home is fully sealed and insulated for the colder months ahead.

Why It Matters

By taking the time to inspect your windows and doors now, you’ll ensure that any summer damage is addressed before winter hits. Warped frames, cracked glass, and damaged seals can lead to costly repairs down the road and make your home less energy-efficient during the coldest months of the year. A thorough inspection will help protect your home from drafts, moisture, and freezing temperatures, keeping your home comfortable and efficient as the seasons change.

After a summer of dust, pollen, and grime buildup, your windows, frames, and screens likely need a good cleaning. Fall is the perfect time to get everything cleaned up before you close up your home for the winter. A thorough cleaning will not only improve visibility but also ensure your windows and doors are ready for smooth operation in the colder months ahead.

DIY Cleaning Tips

1. Clean the Glass: Use a mild window cleaner or a solution of vinegar and water to clean the glass. A microfiber cloth is ideal for streak-free results. Pay extra attention to any spots that may have been impacted by pollen or dirt buildup during the summer.
2. Wipe Down Frames: For vinyl or metal frames, use a soft cloth and a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to clean off any dirt or grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the surface. Wooden frames should be cleaned gently with a damp cloth to avoid moisture damage. Ensure the frames are dry afterward to prevent swelling or warping.
3. Remove and Clean Screens: Gently remove the screens and clean them with a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and debris. If the screens are especially dirty, you can wash them with soapy water and rinse them thoroughly. Allow them to dry completely before reinstalling.
4. Clean Tracks and Sills: Dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks of windows and sliding doors, making them difficult to open and close. Use a vacuum with a narrow nozzle to remove debris from the tracks, and wipe them down with a damp cloth.

Pro Tips for More Intensive Cleaning

1. Power Washing for Exterior Frames: If your window frames, especially those on higher floors, are heavily soiled, consider hiring a professional to power wash the exterior. This is especially useful for vinyl or aluminum frames, but it should be avoided on wood due to potential water damage.
2. Professional Screen Repair or Replacement: If your screens have tears or have become loose in the frame, a professional can repair or replace them. Torn or damaged screens can allow bugs and debris to enter, reducing your home’s efficiency.
3. Deep Frame Cleaning: For older homes with delicate or detailed wooden frames, a professional cleaning service can ensure that no damage is done to the material. They’ll use specialized products to protect the wood while thoroughly cleaning away grime.

Table: Fall Cleaning Checklist for Windows, Frames, and Screens

Why Fall Cleaning Matters

By thoroughly cleaning your windows, frames, and screens in the fall, you prepare them for winter’s cold, when you’ll want to keep everything sealed and insulated. Clean windows allow more natural light into your home during shorter days, while clean tracks and sills ensure smooth operation even when the temperatures drop. Taking these small steps now will help protect your windows and doors from buildup, keeping them efficient and operational all season long.

As the temperatures drop in fall, ensuring that your windows and doors are properly sealed is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Weatherstripping around windows and doors can wear down over time, especially after enduring the summer heat and frequent use. If the weatherstripping is cracked, brittle, or peeling, it will allow cold air to seep in, leading to drafts and higher heating bills. Replacing worn-out weatherstripping before winter hits can prevent these issues and help keep your home warm.

DIY Weatherstripping Inspection

1. Check for Gaps and Drafts: Run your hand along the edges of your windows and doors to feel for any drafts or cold air seeping through. If you notice any air leaks, it’s a sign that your weatherstripping may need to be replaced.
2. Visual Inspection: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, peeling, or gaps in the weatherstripping. Pay special attention to areas that receive the most wear, such as door frames and frequently opened windows.
3. Test the Seal: Close your window or door and try sliding a piece of paper between the frame and the seal. If the paper slides through easily, your weatherstripping isn’t sealing properly and should be replaced.

Replacing Weatherstripping: A Simple DIY Task

1. Choose the Right Type of Weatherstripping: There are various types of weatherstripping available, depending on your needs. Adhesive-backed foam tape is easy to install and works well for most windows and doors. V-channel weatherstripping is often used for wooden or older windows, while rubber or vinyl gaskets are more suitable for larger gaps around doors.
2. Remove Old Weatherstripping: Gently peel away the old weatherstripping. If it’s stuck, use a utility knife to cut through any adhesive. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying new weatherstripping.
3. Apply New Weatherstripping: Measure and cut the new weatherstripping to fit your window or door frame. Apply it firmly along the edges, ensuring that it creates a snug seal without interfering with the operation of the window or door.
4. Test the Seal Again: Once the new weatherstripping is in place, close your window or door and test the seal to ensure that no air is leaking through.

Pro Tips for Professional Help

1. Professional Installation: If you have large gaps or draft issues that can’t be resolved with standard weatherstripping, it might be best to consult a professional. Older homes, in particular, may need custom weatherproofing solutions or adjustments to window and door frames for a tighter seal.
2. Full Home Energy Audit: For homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency across their entire home, a professional energy audit can identify additional areas where heat loss may be occurring. This can lead to more targeted repairs and savings on your heating bill throughout the winter.

Why It’s Important

Replacing worn weatherstripping is one of the most effective ways to prevent drafts and energy loss during the cold months. By making sure your windows and doors are properly sealed, you’ll not only improve your home’s comfort but also save on heating costs. With a little attention in the fall, you can ensure that your home stays cozy and draft-free when the winter weather hits.

As temperatures begin to drop, it’s important to ensure that the hardware on your windows and doors is functioning smoothly. Cold weather can cause hinges, locks, and sliding tracks to stiffen or seize up, making it harder to open and close windows and doors. Regularly lubricating these moving parts helps prevent wear and tear, ensuring everything continues to operate smoothly throughout the winter months.

DIY Lubrication Tips

1. Inspect the Hardware: Before applying any lubricant, check the condition of the hardware on your windows and doors. Look for signs of rust, stiffness, or squeaking. Pay special attention to areas that may have accumulated dirt and debris over the summer, like window tracks and door hinges.
2. Choose the Right Lubricant: Use a silicone-based spray for window tracks and door hinges, as it repels moisture and doesn’t attract dust or dirt like oil-based products. Graphite powder is ideal for locks, as it lubricates the mechanism without gumming it up.
3. Apply the Lubricant: For hinges and tracks, spray a small amount of silicone lubricant directly onto the moving parts. Open and close the window or door several times to work the lubricant in and ensure smooth operation. For locks, sprinkle graphite powder into the keyhole and turn the key a few times to distribute the powder evenly.
4. Wipe Away Excess: After lubricating, wipe away any excess lubricant to avoid attracting dust or debris, especially in areas like window tracks. Excess lubricant can cause dirt to build up, making the problem worse in the long run.

Pro Tips for More Advanced Hardware Issues

1. Professional Realignment: If your windows or doors are still difficult to open or close after lubrication, they may be misaligned. A professional can adjust the frame or hinges to ensure smooth operation. This is especially useful for older homes, where settling or wood swelling can cause misalignment.
2. Hardware Replacement: For windows and doors with old or rusted hardware, consider having a professional replace the parts entirely. Replacing hinges, locks, or sliding tracks can greatly improve the lifespan of your windows and doors and prevent larger issues down the road.

Why Lubrication Matters

Regularly lubricating the hardware on your windows and doors is a small task that can have a big impact. By reducing friction and preventing rust or dirt buildup, you’ll ensure that your windows and doors continue to function properly even in cold weather. This maintenance step not only extends the life of the hardware but also makes your home more comfortable and energy-efficient by allowing windows and doors to open and close smoothly when needed.

As fall progresses and winter approaches, it’s essential to inspect and prepare your storm doors and windows. Storm doors and windows provide an extra layer of protection against the cold, wind, and moisture, helping to keep your home insulated and comfortable during the colder months. Ensuring they are in top condition now can prevent potential problems when winter weather hits.

DIY Inspection Tips

1. Check for Cracks and Damage: Look over your storm doors and windows for any visible cracks in the glass or frame. Even small cracks can expand when exposed to freezing temperatures, so it’s important to address these issues now.
2. Inspect the Weatherstripping: The weatherstripping on storm doors and windows is critical for keeping cold air out. Over time, it can become brittle or worn, leading to drafts. Run your hand around the edges of the storm door or window to feel for any leaks or cold air. If the weatherstripping is damaged, replace it with new material to ensure a tight seal.
3. Test the Locks and Latches: Ensure that the locks, latches, and hinges on your storm doors and windows are working properly. These parts can rust or stiffen over time, especially after exposure to moisture. Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to hinges and locks if needed to keep them functioning smoothly.
4. Check the Glass and Screens: If your storm doors or windows have screens, make sure they’re in good condition. If you plan to swap out screens for glass inserts for winter, now is the time to make the change. Clean both the glass and screens to remove dust, dirt, or grime that could impact their performance.

Pro Tips for Storm Door and Window Maintenance

1. Professional Glass Repair: If you discover cracks or chips in the glass, even if they seem minor, it’s best to have a professional handle the repair. Cracked glass is more vulnerable to breakage in cold weather, and a professional can replace the pane with insulated glass to improve energy efficiency.
2. Storm Window Installation: If your home doesn’t already have storm windows, consider having them installed by a professional. Modern storm windows are designed to improve insulation, reduce drafts, and protect your primary windows from harsh winter conditions. A professional can ensure that they’re installed correctly and securely.
3. Realignment and Adjustment: Over time, storm doors can sag or become misaligned due to frequent use or settling of your home. If your storm door no longer closes properly or is hard to latch, a professional can realign or adjust the door to ensure it operates smoothly and seals tightly.

Why Storm Door and Window Maintenance is Essential

Storm doors and windows play a critical role in protecting your home from harsh winter weather. By inspecting and repairing them in the fall, you’ll improve your home’s energy efficiency, prevent drafts, and protect your primary windows and doors from wear and tear. Keeping these barriers in top condition ensures that your home stays warm and comfortable, even when temperatures drop.

As fall brings cooler temperatures, it’s important to test your windows and doors for drafts that can make your home less comfortable and drive up energy costs. Even small air leaks can let in cold air and force your heating system to work harder, making your home less efficient. Fortunately, finding and sealing drafts is a straightforward process that can save you money and keep your home warm as winter approaches.

DIY Draft Test

1. The Candle or Lighter Test: One of the easiest ways to test for drafts is to use a candle or lighter. Light the flame and hold it close to the edges of your windows and doors (being careful not to get too close to any curtains or other flammable materials). If the flame flickers or moves, it indicates a draft. Make sure to test all sides of the window or door, especially around corners and edges where air leaks are most common.
2. Visual Inspection: Look closely at the seals around your windows and doors. Cracks, gaps, or worn-out weatherstripping are common causes of drafts. Pay particular attention to areas where the frame meets the wall, as these can be prime locations for air to seep in.
3. Test Door Sweeps: For exterior doors, check the door sweep at the bottom. If you see light coming through or feel cold air at the bottom of the door, the sweep may be damaged or worn out. Replacing it with a new sweep will help seal the gap and block cold air.
4. Listen for Whistling Sounds: On windy days, you may hear a faint whistling sound near your windows or doors. This is often a sign of an air leak. Use this as a clue to pinpoint exactly where the draft is coming from.

Pro Tips for Dealing with Drafts

1. Professional Air Sealing: If you discover extensive drafts or multiple leaks, consider hiring a professional to perform air sealing. A pro can identify hard-to-find leaks using specialized equipment, such as infrared cameras or blower door tests, ensuring that your home is tightly sealed for winter.
2. Full Home Energy Audit: A professional energy audit can give you a detailed report of where your home is losing energy. Auditors use advanced tools to test for air leaks and recommend repairs or upgrades to improve energy efficiency.
3. Storm Windows and Doors: If drafts are a recurring issue, investing in storm windows and doors may be the solution. A professional can install these additional barriers to improve insulation and reduce drafts throughout the winter.

Table: Common Draft Locations and Fixes

Why Testing for Drafts is Crucial

Finding and sealing drafts before winter hits will greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. By addressing air leaks now, you can prevent cold air from entering and keep your home warmer, while also reducing the strain on your heating system. This simple step not only keeps you more comfortable but also saves on energy costs throughout the cold months.

As fall progresses and colder weather approaches, the gaps under your exterior doors can allow cold drafts to enter your home, reducing its energy efficiency and comfort. A door sweep, installed at the bottom of your door, acts as a barrier to block drafts, prevent heat loss, and keep out dust and debris. If your door sweeps are worn out or missing, now is the time to inspect, replace, or install new ones.

DIY Door Sweep Inspection and Installation

1. Inspect Existing Door Sweeps: If your exterior doors already have door sweeps, check them for signs of wear. Look for cracks, tears, or any gaps that allow air to pass through. Run your hand along the bottom of the door to feel for drafts or check if light is visible underneath.
2. Choose the Right Door Sweep: There are different types of door sweeps available, including adhesive-backed sweeps, screw-on sweeps, and automatic door sweeps. Choose one based on the type of door and the size of the gap you need to seal. Adhesive-backed sweeps are quick and easy to install but may not last as long as screw-on versions.
3. Measure and Trim to Fit: Measure the width of your door to ensure the sweep fits properly. Most door sweeps can be trimmed to size using a hacksaw for metal sweeps or a utility knife for rubber or vinyl sweeps. Make sure the sweep is the correct length and sits flush with the door.
4. Install the Door Sweep: If you’re using an adhesive-backed sweep, simply peel off the backing and press it into place at the bottom of the door. For screw-on sweeps, use a drill to attach the sweep securely to the door. Automatic door sweeps may require professional installation, as they retract when the door is closed and extend when the door is open.
5. Test for Drafts: After installation, close the door and test for drafts by running your hand along the bottom. The sweep should form a snug seal against the threshold, blocking any cold air from entering.

Pro Tips for Better Sealing

1. Threshold Adjustment: If you find that the door sweep doesn’t sit properly against the floor, you may need to adjust the door’s threshold. A professional can raise or lower the threshold to ensure a tighter seal with the sweep, further reducing drafts.
2. Professional Door Sweep Installation: For doors with irregular gaps or uneven surfaces, consider having a professional install a custom-fit door sweep. Pros can ensure the sweep fits perfectly, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing drafts more effectively than off-the-shelf options.
3. Weatherproofing for Older Doors: In older homes, doors may warp or become misaligned over time, making it difficult for a standard door sweep to provide an airtight seal. A professional can assess whether adjustments to the door itself are necessary or if additional weatherproofing methods should be applied.

Table: Types of Door Sweeps and Their Best Uses

Why Door Sweeps are Essential

A properly installed door sweep can make a significant difference in keeping your home warm and draft-free throughout the colder months. By sealing the gap under your exterior doors, you prevent cold air from entering and reduce the strain on your heating system. This small investment helps improve energy efficiency, keeps your home more comfortable, and prevents dust and debris from entering.

As the colder months approach, it’s worth evaluating whether your current windows and doors are as energy-efficient as they could be. Over time, even well-maintained windows and doors can lose their ability to insulate properly, leading to higher heating costs and reduced comfort. Fall is the perfect time to consider upgrading to more energy-efficient options before winter hits. Investing in energy-efficient windows and doors can save you money in the long run, improve your home’s comfort, and increase its overall value.

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade

1. Drafts Despite Sealing: If you’ve already replaced weatherstripping and caulking but still feel drafts, it may be a sign that your windows or doors are no longer providing adequate insulation. Persistent air leaks often indicate that the frames or glass have deteriorated beyond simple fixes.

2. Condensation Between Window Panes: Double- or triple-paned windows are designed to insulate by trapping air between the panes. If you notice condensation forming between the panes, it means the seals have failed, reducing the window’s insulating ability. This is a strong indicator that it’s time for a replacement.

3. Difficulty Operating Windows or Doors: If your windows or doors are hard to open or close, especially after performing maintenance, this could indicate that they’ve warped or expanded over time, reducing their efficiency.

4. High Energy Bills: If your heating costs continue to rise despite regular maintenance and sealing efforts, inefficient windows and doors may be to blame. Older models without energy-efficient glass or coatings can allow significant heat loss during the winter months.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Upgrades

1. Improved Insulation: New energy-efficient windows and doors feature advanced technologies like low-E glass (low-emissivity coatings), which reflect heat back into the room while letting natural light in. This reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps your home warmer without overworking your heating system.

2. Lower Energy Bills: By upgrading to energy-efficient models, you’ll reduce drafts and heat loss, which can significantly lower your heating costs. Over time, the savings on your energy bills can offset the initial cost of the upgrade.

3. Enhanced Comfort: Energy-efficient windows and doors keep cold drafts out and help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature. You’ll notice fewer cold spots near windows and doors, making your home more comfortable throughout the winter.

4. Increased Home Value: Replacing old windows and doors with energy-efficient models can boost your home’s resale value. Potential buyers are often attracted to energy-saving features that can reduce long-term utility costs.

When to Call in the Pros

1. Full Window and Door Replacement: If you’ve determined that your windows or doors are no longer energy-efficient, it’s best to consult a professional for a full replacement. They can help you choose the right energy-efficient models for your home and ensure proper installation, which is key to maximizing the benefits of new windows and doors.

2. Energy Audit: If you’re unsure whether your windows and doors are costing you energy, a professional energy audit can provide a detailed analysis of where your home is losing heat. This audit can help you make informed decisions about upgrades and other improvements.

Types of Energy-Efficient Features to Look For

• Low-E Glass: Coatings that reflect infrared light to keep heat inside during the winter.
• Double or Triple Panes: Multiple panes of glass with gas fillings (like argon or krypton) between them for better insulation.
• Energy Star Certification: Windows and doors that meet Energy Star criteria are certified to be energy-efficient, helping you reduce your energy usage and bills.

Why Upgrading Matters

Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors isn’t just about saving on heating bills—it’s about improving the overall quality and comfort of your home. Modern windows and doors provide better insulation, help regulate indoor temperatures, and reduce noise from outside. With the right upgrades, you’ll enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home during the winter and increased energy savings year-round.

Conclusion