Why Are My Windows So Cold? – Winter Reveals What Summer Hides
If you own a home around Indianapolis, you’re well aware that winter can be brutal at times. One day the wind has you wondering why you stepped outside, and the next you’re spending hours clearing your driveway from the snow that came the night before. But every winter, most of us find ourselves asking the lingering question: Why are my windows so cold? Once you do some digging, the answer always comes down to failing or inefficient windows that aren’t able to hold up against Mother Nature’s bitter cold.
Once the temperature drops outside, the glass in your windows will naturally become much colder than the walls around them. But with that said, your windows shouldn’t resemble what you would find on the inside of a freezer. If so, then it’s a good sign your windows insulating properties are failing or nonexistent.
Common Reasons Why Windows Feel Cold in the Winter
1. Poor Insulation (Especially in Older Windows)
Older homes that still have single-pane windows or outdated double-pane units (commonly on original vinyl, builder-grade windows) allow heat to easily escape. As the inside of the glass gets cold, that cold air starts to be radiated into the room.
2. Air Leaks Around the Windows
Every tiny gap around the window is a potential entry point for freezing cold air. These can include gaps around the frame, operable sashes, and trim. Even the smallest leak can create cold draft from window areas throughout your entire home.
3. Broken Seals in Double-Pane Windows
With modern double-pane windows, the ability to remain insulated rests of the sealed pocket of air or gas, most commonly argon, between the two panes. Once that seal has failed, your window will lose the vast majority of its insulating properties and become much colder.
4. Humidity Issues Inside Your Home
Most of the time, the problem stems from the actual window, but sometimes the humidity in your home can actually show window problems faster. High indoor humidity will highlight issues such as fogging and condensation buildup.
Signs Your Windows May Be Failing in the Winter
Biggest Red Flags Homeowners Notice
- Cold draft from window edges, even when the window is closed
- Condensation on inside of windows, especially in the mornings
- Rooms that are harder to heat near the windows
- Frost forming on the inside glass
- Difficulty opening, closing, or locking windows tightly
- Moisture between window panes, which often looks like fog you can’t wipe away
The final point above is the most telling of all. Moisture between window panes indicates the all-important seal is broken and the window is now no longer capable of doing its job.
How To Fix Cold Windows and Stop Losing Heat
As with most home issues, the right fix always depends on what’s causing the issue, but below are some good options that work well to defend against winters in Indiana.
Quick Fixes (DIY-Friendly)
- Add weatherstripping around the sash
- Use caulk to seal gaps around the trim
- Install plastic window insulation film for the season
- Close curtains at night to reduce heat loss
These steps can help stop drafty windows fast, especially if the issue is small air leaks.
Longer-Term Fixes (Best Results)
- Replace worn-out locks or hardware so windows seal tighter
- Upgrade to energy-efficient double or triple-pane windows
- Replace failed window units if you see fogging or trapped moisture
If you find yourself constantly dealing with condensation on inside of windows, you might want to consider reducing indoor humidity with a dehumidifier or ventilation fans.
Final Thoughts
If it’s winter and you find yourself wondering, “Why are my windows so cold?”, you’re not alone! This is a common issue we’ll all experience at some point in our life with owning a home in Indiana, and the good news is there are several solutions you can use to mitigate this problem or solve it all together! Whether you elect to try some of the DIY tricks listed above or would like the help of an experienced professional for full replacement, we’re here to help you stay warmer and lower your heating bills this winter.
When it comes to exterior home remodeling, we offer several services like window replacement, siding replacement and interior & exterior painting. Click these links or visit our home page to look through the long list of services we can complete for you!
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