How often should you inspect your window and door seals?

These tasks are more about efficiency, longevity, and comfort. Not a huge deal if you miss one, but it pays off over time.

Staying on schedule matters beyond the repair bill: a consistent maintenance record is one of the factors in a home's Roots Home Health Score, and well-kept homes typically sell faster and closer to asking price.

How to do it

The weatherstripping and seals around windows and doors keep conditioned air in and water and drafts out. As they harden and gap, energy bills rise and water can find its way to the sill.

1. On a windy or cold day, feel around window and door edges for drafts.
2. Inspect the weatherstripping and door sweeps for cracking, flattening, or gaps.
3. Check exterior caulk and the sill for water staining or soft spots.
4. Replace worn weatherstripping and re-caulk failed exterior joints.

Alternatives & optional extras

• A dollar-store incense stick or a candle shows drafts by the way the smoke moves near the frame.
• Foggy or moisture between double-pane glass means a failed seal in the glass unit itself, which needs the sash or glass replaced.

Time: 30 minutes · Typical cost: $10–$30 for weatherstripping and caulk

If you skip it

Worn seals waste heating and cooling energy and can let water reach the sill and wall, though the stakes are comfort and efficiency more than sudden damage.

Related systems to keep on schedule

• Roof — start with: inspect roof for damage, once a year, ideally in May
• Gutters & downspouts — start with: clean gutters and downspouts, every 6 months
• Chimney / fireplace — start with: schedule chimney sweep and inspection, once a year, ideally in September
• Garage door — start with: test garage door auto-reverse and safety eyes, every 6 months