Friday 7 February 2014

How Efficient Are Your Windows?

The awnings on this home shade the windows and generate electricity. | Photo courtesy of ©iStockphoto/jhorrocks

Windows provide our homes with light, warmth, and ventilation, but they can also negatively impact a home's energy efficiency. You can reduce energy costs by installing energy-efficient windows in your home. If your budget is tight, energy efficiency improvements to existing windows can also help.

Heating and cooling costs can be affected just based on the type of windows you have. If you have an older home and new windows were never an upgrade, it may make more sense to get new windows instead of just trying to improve upon the existing windows. New windows will lower heating and cooling costs, eventually covering the initial cost.

Storm windows can reduce the amount of air leaking out and remove drafts. Weather-stripping and caulking around windows and doors can assist in this as well.  Weather-stripping is designed for things that move such as doors and windows that open. Use caulk where gaps exist.
Another way to improve the efficiency of your windows is to select different options with regards to curtains and blinds. Window treatments can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

What's Your Score?
Often Energy Star approved windows can eve be zoned for your area you know they can withstand the climate you may regularly endure. When properly selected and installed, energy-efficient windows can help minimize your heating and cooling costs.

Energy efficient windows not only reduce home energy costs and drafts but can reduce noise and help increase light in the home.  Don’t forget about skylights and doors as well. Window replacement in skylights can help reduce condensation that builds up in older models.

If you would like to have a home audit done to see if your windows are energy efficient, or letting your money leak out the door, give us a call! 604-984-4527


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