Spring household maintenance means home waterproofing. Ensure your weatherproof windows are still up to the challenge of holding back the rain. Preventing drafts and leaks can be as simple as confirming your sills are sealed. Other times, window and door replacement may be necessary.

Here’s a look at the best materials for the job, sealing techniques, and signs that it’s time for an upgrade to ensure your home stays protected.

Here are a few ideas to get you started weatherproofing windows and doors:

Start with a Search for Indoor Gaps

Let’s begin with what you can find inside.

Are Your Doors Watertight?

There should be no visible gaps around your doors when closed. A space between a door and its frame is necessary so it opens and closes properly, but it should be sealed. If it’s not, air and water can get inside.

If you have worn weatherstripping allowing light through, that can be replaced. Don’t forget to inspect the top and bottom of the door for gaps letting in wind or rain.

After applying new weatherstripping, check for drafts getting in. If you can still feel air entering your home, consider new doors.

Any Evidence of Windows Letting Moisture in?

Look for water discolouration around your inner window sill. Along the edges of your windows, use your hand to feel for drafts. Replace weatherstripping if necessary. If that doesn’t work, new windows may be required.

Frame Cracks Found on the Outside

Some damaged exterior door and window frame sections can be fixed with caulking.

Clean the area before applying caulk. Pay particular attention to where the frame meets the wall. This is where drafts can get inside that are harder to detect.

Using the caulking gun, draw straight lines making regular beads as you go. After the line is drawn, use a putty knife to smooth out the filler.

Make sure you use the correct product: caulk for indoor and outdoor jobs is different.

If drafts or moisture are still getting through, consider new doors or windows.

Vinyl Siding Solutions

To repair gaps between doors and vinyl siding frames, clean the area first. Use an exterior-grade sealant. Smooth it out before it sets. This job requires close attention to get right. If the sealant dries in an unaesthetic way, you may not be pleased with the final result.

Fixes for Larger Gaps

Larger or uneven gaps require sealant foam. This process involves several applications and vigilant inspection between layers. The foam expands after it’s applied and can damage frames if too much is used.

This job isn’t basic DIY: if you have big gaps between your frame and wall, new doors or windows may be in order.

What if New Windows or Doors Aren’t in Your Budget?

Then you’re in luck! Champagne Siding is having a sale this April. Let the experts get your home shipshape in time for spring.

Let Champagne Siding Upgrade Your Home’s Windows and Doors!

We remodel and renovate houses in Sudbury and the surrounding area. This month, we’re offering spring weather solutions including 20% off vinyl siding and 10% off high-efficiency windows and patio doors. Also, you’ll get free delivery for the first fifty miles from our 160 Douglas Street address.

We’re members of the TIM-BR® Mart Buying Group, purchasing our materials at better wholesale prices so we can pass the savings on to you. Contact us today for a free estimate!