Cold Weather Is Coming! 5 Smart Window Upgrades That Save You Money This Winter

Home and Door
5 days ago
2 min read

As the vibrant colors of fall start to take over Southeast Michigan, it’s the perfect time to prep your home for the colder months ahead. One of the most overlooked, yet most effective, ways to keep your home warm and your energy bills low this winter is by upgrading your windows. Old, drafty windows can silently siphon heat and money, so if you're ready to make a smart investment before the snow flies, start here.

1. Swap Single-Pane for Double or Triple-Pane Glass

Still rocking single-pane windows? It’s time for a serious upgrade. Double- or triple-pane windows are built with layers of glass and insulating gas between the panes, significantly reducing heat loss.

Triple-pane is especially ideal for homes in cold climates like Michigan’s
Look for ENERGY STAR® ratings for maximum efficiency
Brands like Polar Seal Windows and Marvin offer excellent cold-weather performance

2. Install Low-E Coating for Insulated Comfort

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are microscopically thin layers applied to the glass surface. They help reflect heat back into your home while still letting sunlight in.

This means:

Warmer interiors during winter
Less strain on your furnace
Better year-round temperature regulation

3. Upgrade Window Frames

Energy efficiency isn’t just about glass—it’s also about the frames. Metal frames can conduct heat and cold, while vinyl, fiberglass, or wood-composite frames offer better insulation.

Brands like North Star Windows and Fox Weldoor provide frame options designed for Midwest weather conditions.

4. Seal the Gaps with Weatherstripping

Even the best windows lose efficiency if air is leaking around them. Fall is a great time to inspect for:

Cracked or missing caulking
Gaps in weatherstripping
Drafts around the window frame

Replacing old seals is a low-cost fix with a high return on comfort and savings.

5. Consider Storm Windows or Inserts

If full replacement isn’t in your budget this season, consider storm windows or interior inserts. These add an extra layer of insulation without the cost of full-frame replacement.

Great temporary option for historic homes
Helps reduce condensation and noise
Can improve efficiency by 25–50%

Don't Wait for the First Snowfall

Upgrading your windows now ensures your home is energy-efficient, cozy, and quiet all winter long. At Home & Door, we provide high-quality window replacements built to handle Michigan’s most unpredictable weather.

Call us today or visit our website for a free quote!

Call 248.399.9900