Energy efficiency is key to comfort and savings this winter. The more efficiently your windows perform, the more comfortable your home will be without the use of the heating unit. The less you use your heating unit, the cheaper your energy bills will be. Energy efficient windows can save hundreds each year in energy costs. On the other hand, windows that are lacking in energy efficiency can cost homeowners hundreds of dollars.
It’s a good idea to have energy efficient windows, but as the cold settles in, make sure that they’re performing properly. Here are some tips to get the most energy efficiency out of your windows.
Check the Weatherproofing
The caulk that weatherproofs your window can become cracked and chipped over time. When the caulk is worn down, cold air can slip through into the home, as well as bugs seeking refuge from the cold. Winter is a good time to make sure your window caulk is in good shape and that the window is tightly sealed. It won’t hurt to add fresh weatherproofing to the window just to further prepare for the cold.
If the caulk is fine, but you still notice a draft, your window may have an air leakage problem. Keep an eye out for anything else that might be the problem, like small sections of broken glass or a looseness in the window frame. Calling a professional to come out and inspect the window could be in your best interest to make sure that you get the most insulation this year.
Add Extra Panes
Double- or triple-paned windows add insulation and energy efficiency in a few ways. On the simplest level, the thicker your window, the sturdier the insulation. Multiple window panes will also allow a homeowner to fill the spaces between the glass, either with low-E coatings or gas fillings. Both low-E coatings and gas fillings work to slow the flow of air from one pane to the other. Cold air is stopped from flowing inside and hot air is stopped before it has a chance to escape your home. Gas fillings are made up of either argon or krypton gas, both of which are non-toxic and have no odor, so this added insulation comes at no risk to your household.
Upgrade to a More Efficient Model
Sometimes your old window is just…old. Weatherproofing can help, but if you add up all the costs it would take to make that window as energy efficient as more modern recent models, it might make more sense to replace it. There are several energy efficient windows on the market today with technology that didn’t exist twenty years ago. Fiberglass windows, for example, are a recent energy efficient trend but perform so well that they’re increasingly popular. Even vinyl windows from a high-quality brand like Simonton can help make your home more comfortable at less expense this winter. If your old windows seem like a lost cause, simply install new quality replacement windows, and start enjoying stronger efficiency.
At Johnson County Siding & Window Co., we’re proud to offer both Marvin Fiberglass Replacement Windows and Simonton Vinyl Replacement Windows, two of the best energy efficient replacement window brands on the market. If you need to make your Kansas City windows more energy efficient this winter, we have you covered. Just call us at (913) 782-2878 or contact us online for more information.
