Winter definitely has its perks. It’s the season of Christmas, roast dinners, roaring fires and perhaps even playing in the snow (whether or not you have kids!). It’s a time to get cosy and snuggle up in your lovely warm home. But what if you live in a house that’s draughty and full of cold spots and rattling windows? There’s nothing worse than sitting in your lounge, trying to relax, and feeling constantly uncomfortable because a chilly breeze is making you shiver. According to sustainable design firm GreenSpec, about 10% of the heat lost in an average home escapes through the windows, with about two-thirds of this due to radiation through the glazing, and the other third through gaps in the frames. So, with this in mind, we’ve put together some tips on how you can winterise your windows to ensure your home is warm, comfortable and draught-free over the bitter December, January and February months.

Windows in Winter: Guide to energy efficient homes | Hamilton WindowsDraught-proof your windows

If you need a quick fix for draughty windows, a good temporary option is to draught-proof your home by sealing any gaps around your windows and doors. You can get draught-proofing materials from most hardware stores. As well as draught-proofing your windows and doors, you could consider looking at any pipework that leads outside, ceiling-to-wall joints and between floorboards – anywhere that could be a source of cold air getting in. If you take the DIY approach, do make sure you keep ventilation in mind and don’t seal up things like wall vents and trickle vents, as these maintain airflow and keep damp at bay.

Replace draughty windows with double glazing

One of the most efficient ways to winterise your windows is to install double glazing – especially if you currently have single-glazed windows. The addition of an extra pane of glass – and the gas or air that fills the cavity between the two panes – reduces the amount of heat that is able to escape through the windows, helping your home retain heat for longer. If your double glazing was installed on or before 1st April 2002, then it may not be as energy-efficient as possible. This is because the amended Part L of the Building Regulations came into force on that date and specified that all new and replacement windows must meet minimum energy ratings. With replacement glazing, your home will achieve these ratings.

Here at Hamilton Windows, we can help you winterise your windows by installing energy-efficient double glazing. If you live in Hook, Haslemere, Horley or another area of South London or Surrey, contact us today to find out more and for a free, no-obligation quotation.