Installing New Windows To Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency
Windows provide your house with light, warmth, and ventilation; even so, they can also negatively affect your house's energy efficiency. If you have an old home, it's possible that you have old, single pane windows. Unfortunately, not only do this sort of window need a good deal of maintenance, they are also not energy efficient, and are often difficult to operate. If you want to improve the look of your abode and lower your power consumption at the same time, think about installing newer, replacement vinyl windows.
Vinyl window frames are commonly manufactured from polyvinyl chloride or PVC with UV stabilizers in order to avoid premature breakdown due to sunlight. These vinyl windows not only are good insulators, they also don't have to be painted and are usually moisture resistant. If you need thermally exceptional windows, look for insulated replacement windows made of vinyl.
When picking windows for your residence, it is also important to consider the operating type. A window's operating type will influence to a great degree how energy efficient the window is. Generally speaking, sliding windows have greater air leakage rates than projecting or hinged window variants, so when looking for windows select awning, casement, or hopper windows. Then again, if you don't want to upgrade your windows, there are also steps you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your existing windows. For example, you can use storm windows which can be mounted on the interior or exterior of the existing window. This is in most cases a less expensive option to updating your old windows and a great choice for those renting apartments who have restricted renovation choices.
Different window treatment and coverings can also help save energy, apart from adding visual interest to your space. Case in point, window awnings is effective in reducing solar heat gain during summer months. Window blinds can also prevent your home from gaining too much heat during hot days, thereby lowering energy consumption from cooling. However, you have to take into account that window treatments aren't effective at lowering air leakage, s you may want to caulk or weatherstrip around your windows.
Air sealing methods like caulking and weatherstripping could help make your home achieve better energy efficiency by reducing drafts and making your home feel warmer when it's chilly outside. But though it may be beneficial create an airtight, energy-efficient house, it should also be effectively ventilated to eliminate indoor pollutants, moisture, and odours. For properly caulked and weatherstripped homes, you can use one or more fans and duct systems to ensure controlled air movement or use localized exhaust fans to provide spot ventilation.
About the Author:
For more information about energy efficient windows & to improve energy efficiency of your house through windows please visit this link.