New Jersey winters aren’t known for being mild. Between the whipping wind, short days, and long nights, this time of year can really put a home to the test. And when it comes to keeping warm air in and cold air out, not all exterior windows are up for the job. Some let in drafts. Others just don’t insulate as well anymore.
If you’re thinking about where to start with winter upgrades, windows are a smart place to look. But when you can’t do them all at once, it helps to know which ones deserve attention first. This guide can help you figure out which exterior windows should be the top priority when the temperatures start to drop and the heating bills start to rise.
Choosing Windows Most Affected by Wind and Cold
Some windows take the full hit from winter winds. In New Jersey, that’s usually the ones facing north or west. These sides of the house tend to get the strongest gusts, and if older windows sit there, they’re often the first to leak cold air.
Windows don’t have to be visibly broken to cause problems. Even if the glass looks fine, the surrounding frame might not be. That’s especially true for wood-framed openings or older aluminum ones. Over time, these can shrink or separate just enough to let cold air sneak in.
You know something’s off when you walk into a room and it feels 10 degrees cooler than the rest of the house. That’s a good sign those windows are letting in too much cold.
• Walk through the house during a cold day and pause near each window
• Pay attention to chillier spots and drafty corners
• Make note of any blinds or curtains that move when the wind picks up outside
If you pick one spot to upgrade first, start with the windows that have the toughest job standing up to the cold.
Prioritizing Windows That Are Hard to Seal
Not all windows age the same way. Some types naturally start to loosen up over time, even with regular upkeep. Sliders, for example, can wear in the tracks and stop closing as tightly. Double-hung windows sometimes warp or lose shape after years of use, making it tough to get a proper seal.
Once those little gaps start to appear, it becomes almost impossible to keep the chill out. In deep winter, temporary fixes like weatherstripping only go so far. Colder air around the window frame can shrink materials even more, making worn spots worse.
• Sliding windows that feel loose or don’t stay closed well
• Windows you have trouble locking because of misalignment
• Places where you’ve tried sealing in the past but still feel cold air coming through
If one type of window keeps needing extra help to stay sealed tight, it probably makes sense to move that one to the top of your upgrade list.
Focus on Living Areas and High-Use Rooms
When updates are limited, it makes sense to put the warmth where it counts most. That usually means starting with spaces where people spend the most time. Living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms get used every day, and they’re often the rooms where comfort matters most in winter.
If a family room feels chilly, you’re more likely to turn the heat up, which costs more over time. But if those exterior windows are upgraded and doing a better job keeping the cold out, you end up using heat more evenly through the house.
• Think about where you and your family spend weeknights or weekends
• Make a note of any cold rooms where drafts are noticeable
• Prioritize bedroom windows if they let in too much cold at night
Energy savings and comfort both show up faster when you’re upgrading windows in rooms that get the most attention. You feel it right away when those high-use spaces stay warm more easily.
Monmouth Millwork provides exterior windows with high-performance glass and custom trim, designed to improve insulation and comfort for New Jersey homes facing tough winters.
Don’t Forget Curb-Facing or Entry Area Windows
It’s easy to skip the windows near your front door or facing the street, especially if you don’t use those rooms a lot. But small leaks in these spots can add up. Entry areas often let in cold air from both the door and the nearby windows, which can lower the temperature quickly on a chilly morning or after dark.
These are often the windows people see first when they drive by or walk up, and some winter sun on those openings can really brighten a dark space. But if those windows let in cold air, the tradeoff can be more discomfort than benefit.
• Pay attention to windows near the front or back door
• Watch for cold air that rushes in when the door opens or shuts
• Consider how these windows look from outside during cloudy, gray days
Good exterior windows near the entry can help hold warmth in while still letting some winter light through. They don’t have to be the first swap, but they shouldn’t fall too far down the list either.
A Warmer, Smarter Start to the Year
Upgrading windows isn’t always something you do all at once. But picking the right ones early can set the tone for the entire winter. Whether it’s a cold-facing window with years of wear, or an opening that’s tough to seal anymore, making smart choices now will make the rest of the season easier to manage.
Once the temps settle in for the season, every extra degree of warmth inside makes a difference. Starting with the most exposed and most used windows means you’ll feel the change right away, and that makes it easier to keep going with other updates later when the time feels right.
Are you noticing the chill creeping in or have you spotted signs of wear? It might be time to take a closer look at your home’s windows. At Monmouth Millwork, we help New Jersey homeowners figure out which upgrades can make the biggest difference during the colder months. If drafty spots are coming from older frames or worn hardware, replacing your most exposed or worn-down exterior windows can offer real comfort fast. A few focused changes now can make your whole home feel warmer, right when it matters most. Connect with us today to discuss what might work best for your space.
