Winter in Wisconsin brings scenic snowfalls, and some serious challenges when it comes to keeping your home warm. If your patio doors are letting in cold air or moisture, it may be time to take action. Properly winter-proofing your patio doors can reduce drafts, lower energy bills, and make your home more comfortable all season long. Want to learn how to winter-proof your patio doors? Keep reading!
Check for Drafts
Start with a simple test: on a windy day, hold a lit candle or incense stick near the edges of your patio door. If the flame flickers or smoke moves, you likely have an air leak.
The fix:
- Inspect weatherstripping for damage or gaps.
- Replace old or worn seals with high-quality weatherstripping.
- Tighten or adjust the door to improve the seal when closed.
- Install Insulating Curtains or Door Panels
Thermal curtains or insulated door panels offer an extra layer of protection from the cold. These can help block drafts and reduce heat transfer through the glass, especially on single-pane or older patio doors.
Tip: Choose floor-length curtains with magnetic or velcro sides to seal in heat more effectively.
Add a Draft Stopper or Door Sweep
Cold air often sneaks in under the door. A door sweep or draft stopper is a simple, low-cost way to block these sneaky drafts.
Sweep options:
- Adhesive-backed door sweeps
- Fabric draft snakes
- Bristle-style sweeps for sliding doors
- Maintain Sliding Tracks & Hardware
If your patio doors slide, dirty or misaligned tracks can prevent the door from sealing properly. Clean the tracks thoroughly and ensure rollers and locks are functioning correctly.
Winter maintenance tip: Lubricate metal parts with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent freezing or sticking.
Consider a Professional Upgrade
If your patio doors are more than 15-20 years old or showing signs of warping, condensation, or broken seals, it might be time to replace them with energy-efficient options from Renewal by Andersen.
Our sliding patio doors are built with Fibrex® composite frames and High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass, delivering superior thermal performance and long-lasting beauty, even in harsh Wisconsin winters.
Let Us Help You Stay Warm This Winter
At Renewal by Andersen, we specialize in custom patio door replacements designed for Midwest weather. From professional installation to long-lasting energy savings, we’re here to help you upgrade your comfort and curb appeal! So, how to winter-proof your patio doors? Schedule your free consultation today!
