Winter is a true test of window quality. When the temperature drops and the difference between indoor and outdoor air grows, any flaws in installation or window maintenance become especially noticeable. Heat escapes, condensation appears on the panes, and in extreme cases even drafts occur. To prevent this, it’s worth preparing your windows for the winter season—not only for comfort, but also to save on heating costs.

Fintecnic, a manufacturer of modern PVC and aluminium windows, explains how to properly secure your joinery for winter, what mistakes to avoid, and when it’s worth calling in the professionals for an inspection.

Why is window maintenance before winter so important?

Although windows are designed as durable, weather-resistant elements, regular maintenance has a huge impact on their lifespan. Frost, wind, and moisture are the joinery’s worst enemies—over time, they can cause microcracks in seals, weaken hardware, and reduce tightness.
Well-maintained windows guarantee that the heat stays inside, and cold air doesn’t seep in. This isn’t just about comfort—leaks can increase your heating bills by several percent during the season. Regular cleaning, maintenance, and adjustment of moving parts ensure that your windows glide easily and quietly, while their insulation parameters remain high for years.

It’s also worth remembering that maintaining your windows is a requirement for keeping the manufacturer’s warranty. Fintecnic recommends having your joinery inspected once a year—ideally in autumn. It’s a simple way to avoid bigger issues in the middle of winter.

Step by step—how to prepare your windows for winter

Preparing your windows for heating season is something you can do yourself. Just a few simple steps can significantly improve comfort and warmth in your home.

1. Thoroughly clean panes and frames

Start with a thorough window wash. Use a soft cloth or sponge and a gentle cleaner. Avoid products with solvents—they may dull PVC or aluminium surfaces. Clean frames aren’t just about looks—dirt in grooves and seals can make sashes hard to close and reduce tightness.

2. Inspect and maintain seals

Seals are key for insulation. Over time, they may become stiff or brittle due to UV and frost. Check their condition, and if you notice cracks or loss of elasticity—replace them. It’s good practice to lubricate seals with technical petroleum jelly or silicone spray. This prevents freezing and keeps the rubber flexible even at -20°C.

3. Adjust the hardware and sash pressure

Modern windows—like those from Fintecnic—allow for seasonal adjustment of hardware—the so-called summer and winter mode. In winter, the sash should press more firmly to the frame to minimize air flow. But don’t overdo it—too much pressure can warp the frame and make opening difficult. If you don’t have experience, call a service technician.

4. Lubricate hinges and moving parts

Hinges, handles, and catches are used every day. In winter, grease thickens, so it’s good to apply a new, thin layer of technical oil or silicone. Use only products intended for window hardware—regular grease may attract dust and damage protective coatings.

5. Check condition of panes and frames

Check that there is no condensation between panes and no distortions on the frames. Minor leaks can be sealed with silicone caulk. If you see bigger issues—like a cracked frame—contact a technician. A proper inspection will help you avoid heat loss and repairs in the middle of winter.

Common mistakes when preparing windows for winter

Many homeowners make mistakes that can lower insulation efficiency or even permanently damage their joinery.
The most common problem is using overly strong cleaners, leading to discoloration of PVC or micro-scratches on aluminium. Seals are often neglected—yet they’re responsible for tightness. Another mistake is excessive adjustment of hardware—too much pressure makes windows drafty when open or hard to close.

It’s also risky to neglect hinge lubrication—in freezing temperatures, metal elements may seize up, causing hardware to break. Remember—even small issues in winter can mean a cold interior and higher heating bills.

Professional inspection and window service—when is it worth it?

Not all maintenance jobs are DIY-friendly. If you have doubts about tightness, or feel unsure adjusting hardware, it’s best to leave it to specialists.
Fintecnic offers professional service and maintenance of PVC and aluminium joinery. Experienced technicians conduct a full inspection, including:

• adjusting all hardware,
• checking seals and panes,
• servicing hinges and moving parts,
• testing the tightness between frame and wall.

It’s worth doing this inspection once a year—best in autumn, before the first cold spells arrive. This is a small cost compared to potential heat loss and joinery repairs.

Additional ways to boost window thermal insulation

If you want to further enhance protection against the cold, consider a few simple solutions:

• Install external blinds—they create an extra barrier against cold air and protect panes from the wind.
• Use thermal window films—applied to the inside, they can reduce cold transfer.
• Replace window vents—modern Fintecnic models have automatic airflow control to keep a healthy microclimate without heat loss.
• Consider replacing glass with energy-efficient units—double-chamber units with warm-edge spacers will greatly improve your window’s thermal insulation.

With these measures, you can improve your home’s energy balance and noticeably lower heating bills.

Summary

Winter doesn’t have to be a challenge for your windows—just a little care and a few simple actions. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment are basics that will ensure airtightness and comfortable use for many seasons.
Remember, modern PVC and aluminium windows from Fintecnic are designed for long life, but their efficiency largely depends on proper maintenance.