Your windows can play a huge role in the energy efficiency of your home. If your windows are old, broken, or made of poor material, you’re losing money every month to your energy bill. This is because when working properly, windows are important tool for insulation. At Arch City Window, we like to use the metaphor of a thermos.
Basically, the window’s function helps to trap heat in when it’s cold outside and keeps heat out when it’s hot outside, making your home much more comfortable and requiring you to use less energy. The most effective way of improving the efficiency of your windows is to get them replaced with high-quality, efficient glass like what Arch City uses. However, if you’re not quite ready for window replacement, there are other ways to improve your windows’ efficiency.
Storm Windows
A storm window is mounted on either the inside or outside of your current windows. Storm windows can greatly improve the insulation of your windows and thus make them far more energy efficient. These windows are usually made out of glass or plastic and can be either permanent or temporary additions. Adding a storm window is a fairly straightforward and inexpensive process.
Awnings
Awnings can be made from a variety of materials and hang over your windows. They help to reduce the amount of sun that hits your window and therefore lower the amount of infrared heat that comes in through them. Plus, the right awnings can really boost the charm of your home. It is important to note, however, that awnings are really only effective at one end of the thermos metaphor, the “keeping the heat out” half.
Small Repairs
If your window has a small crack or if it doesn’t close all the way, air will seep through it. Money for your energy bill will literally be going out the window! Sometimes, these cracks are very small and hard to detect. That’s why Arch City Window technicians use special infrared cameras to detect where air is leaking out and how much you’re losing because of it.
Other necessary repairs to be made will be on the frame itself. If there is any cracking or deterioration on the window frame, your windows will not be working properly. It’s important to clean out the frame to make sure that you can see everything. If there are holes, we recommend using caulk to seal them up and ensure that all the air remains trapped where it should be.
When it comes to energy efficiency, windows aren’t always the first thing you think of. However, they play a crucial role in keeping your house at the perfect temperature. By taking these small steps, you can save extra spending money that can be used for all sorts of things.
If you’d like more information, or are interested in getting your windows checked out, give Arch City Window a call today and we’ll be happy to give you our professional opinion!