• There is nothing quite like the sensation of being cozy in your warm room during the winter months. However, many people frequently overlook the importance of maintaining their doors and windows to ensure their room remains warm. As you contemplate performing maintenance checks on your doors and windows, it is also wise to purchase a home insurance policy.

Here’s how you can care for your windows and doors during winter:

Eliminate dirt and debris

• Over the course of the year, considerable dust and debris accumulate on window sills and sliding tracks. These can prevent you from effectively sealing your windows in the winter. Consequently, your home may not be as warm as desired. You can clear the debris with a spare toothbrush or a vacuum cleaner. This will enable you to seal your windows properly before winter arrives.

Repair drafts or leaks

• Drafts can be quite bothersome to manage in the winter. Even with new windows and doors, there’s still a possibility of encountering a draft. The best method for identifying one is to look for areas where you feel bursts of cold air entering. Over time, window sills can become worn and lead to drafts. Additionally, the bottom of your doors may allow warm air to escape and cold air to infiltrate. You can address drafts by sealing the leaks with a caulking gun or a sealant. Weather stripping is also an option to seal your drafts.

Employ thermal curtains

• Thermal curtains are an affordable solution for keeping your room warm. They feature an insulating lining that prevents heat from escaping your home, thus preserving your room’s temperature. They are constructed from either double or triple-layered thick fabric that functions as a vapor barrier. On the window side, they possess an extra acrylic coating that absorbs all UV light radiation.

Utilize deadbolts and draft guards

• If your door does not close securely in winter, a significant amount of cold air from outside will infiltrate your room. In such cases, you can use deadbolts to ensure that your door is tightly closed. Deadbolts secure the door firmly to the frame and minimize any gaps at the sides or bottom. You can also employ draft guards to prevent any leakage.

Acquire energy-efficient windows

• Using heaters in the winter can significantly increase your monthly electricity bill. To prevent this, you may upgrade your old windows and install energy-efficient ones. These energy-efficient windows typically feature low-emissivity glass that allows sufficient light into your home during the daytime. Double-glazed glass windows also create a clear yet insulating barrier between the interior and exterior. With these modern windows, you can allow some light to enter during the day and close them at night to block out all the cold. Now you won’t need to operate your heater for as long!

Eliminate excessive condensation

• Excessive condensation commonly occurs during winter. It arises when the warm, moisture-laden air inside your home interacts with the cooler, less moist air outside. If your window seal is compromised or there are drafts present, excess condensation may develop within your room. Consequently, the moisture will be absorbed by the wooden doors and furniture throughout your home. This can result in damage, and rot may begin to form in your doors and windows. To prevent this, consider purchasing a dehumidifier for your home. The dehumidifier will extract moisture from the warm air within your home and prevent excessive condensation from occurring.

Window maintenance on all levels

• If you live in a multi-storey home, it is essential to carry out all of the aforementioned procedures for each of your windows. Some may believe that inadequately sealed windows on the ground floor do not affect the overall warmth of their home, but this is a misconception. Only by sealing every window on all levels will you ensure that your home stays warm. Therefore, be sure to clean all the window sills, inspect for drafts, and seal them properly before winter arrives.

• If a window is damaged, it may jeopardize your comfort during the winter season. However, window replacement can be costly. In such cases, having home insurance can be highly beneficial. A home insurance policy will cover the expenses associated with replacing damaged windows. This way, you can enjoy a peaceful winter. Look for the perfect home insurance policy from HDFC ERGO. We provide a variety of home insurance options that come with 24/7 claims assistance.

Disclaimer:

• The information above is solely for illustrative purposes. For additional information, please refer to the policy wording and prospectus before finalizing any purchase.