Why Is It So Cold Around My Windows?

Bad weather always looks worse through a window.” – Tom Lehrer

And I would say, it often feels just as cold on the inside of your home near your windows…

As winter continues on, many homeowners find themselves confused by an unwelcome situation – the chill that seems to come from their windows!

While winter and cold temperatures go together, when you’re inside you should expect to feel warm. But for some people, they feel the cold even inside when they are near their windows. In fact, sometimes it feels colder inside than outside.

So why is it so cold around your windows, and what can you do to warm things up?

• Do you have Inadequate Insulation? One of the primary culprits behind the cold near windows is inadequate insulation. Windows are notorious for letting heat escape, and if your windows are not properly insulated, they can act as conduits for the cold air outside to infiltrate enter your home. Common areas of concern include gaps around the window frame, poorly sealed edges, and older windows with single-pane glass.
  • What you can do…consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows or using weather-stripping to seal gaps and prevent drafts. Additionally, heavy curtains or insulated blinds can provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.
• Do you understand Conduction and Thermal Bridging? Windows, especially those with metal frames, can conduct heat more efficiently than the surrounding walls. This phenomenon, known as thermal bridging, allows the cold outdoor temperatures to penetrate indoors through the window frame.
  • What you can do…To combat thermal bridging, homeowners can invest in windows with frames made of materials with lower thermal conductivity, such as wood or vinyl. Adding thermal breaks or insulating materials within the frame can also help reduce the transfer of cold air.
• Have you checked  for Condensation and Moisture? Condensation on windows is a common occurrence during winter. When warm indoor air comes into contact with cold window surfaces, it can lead to the formation of condensation, which may eventually freeze, contributing to the perception of cold near the windows.
  • What you can do…Manage condensation, by maintaining a balanced indoor humidity level and use proper ventilation. Adequate air circulation helps prevent excess moisture buildup, reducing the likelihood of condensation on windows.
• Could your windows have a Lack of Sealed Glazing? Double-glazed or triple-glazed windows are designed to provide enhanced insulation by trapping a layer of air or inert gas between multiple panes of glass. If the seals on these windows fail, the insulating effect is compromised, allowing cold air to seep in.
  • What you can do…Regularly inspect your windows for any signs of seal failure, such as fogging between the panes or visible damage. If issues are detected, it may be necessary to repair or replace the window glazing to restore its insulating properties.
• Have you considered the Exterior Factors? External elements, such as strong winds or extreme cold temperatures, can increase the chill near your windows. Wind, in particular, can penetrate through small openings and increase the feeling coldness inside.
  • What you can do…Consider installing storm windows or using window films to create an additional barrier against the weather. These measures can act as a shield, reducing the impact of the weather on the temperature inside your home.

Understanding why it’s so cold around your windows is the first step toward creating a more comfortable indoor environment during the winter months. Whether through window upgrades, proper sealing, or strategic use of insulating materials, the battle against the winter chill can be won, ensuring a more enjoyable and energy-efficient home.

I have been cleaning windows in the Seattle area for nearly 30 years, and quite frankly, I enjoy it! I can also help you with your gutters and other outside tasks. I will be happy to answer all of your questions, and I know the mistakes to avoid. I clean private homes or apartment complexes.