Struggling With Energy Efficiency? 5 Ways Your Windows Can Help On Any Budget
If you want to make your home more energy-efficient, the windows are a great place to start. No matter how new or old your house is, you can improve energy bills and your family's comfort just by making some adjustments to your windows.
To get you started, here are 5 ways to do just that.
Install Energy-Efficient Windows. If your windows are old, it's a good idea to invest in new window installation. This is particularly valuable if you've noticed air leaks or if your old windows are single glazed varieties. Modern technology has made today's windows vastly more protective, secure, and durable.
Add Storm Windows. If you live in an area that's prone to harsh winters, storm windows may be a great way to save money. Storm windows cover your existing windows with an added layer of protection against cold weather. While they generally can't be opened as easily as during the summer, you likely wouldn't be doing so anyway. Storm window installation is a good idea if you have older windows that you can't replace immediately with a more energy efficient type.
Tint Windows. Do you suffer from too much sun on one side of the house that causes it to heat up? Try adding simple window tint to the affected windows. Some new windows come with built-in tinting, but you can also add a layer of solar window film to regular windows.
Create Shade. Along with tinting the actual windows, you can also reduce sunlight exposure on a hot side of the house by planting shade trees or shrubbery so that it covers windows part of the day. Deciduous shade trees that lose their leaves in the cold months help protect windows from summer sun while allowing winter sunlight to penetrate. If year-round sunlight is your problem, look for evergreens and bushes that don't shed their leaves.
Coordinate Air Flow. Help keep your house cooler with natural air flow strategies. And energy audit can help identify air flow patterns throughout the house (and between floors, too) that you can make use of. Moving a window or door, enlarging existing windows, and using strategic fan placement can all work together to move normal breezes through the house in an efficient manner.
No matter whether your budget is large or small, you can find ways to minimize your reliance on artificial heating and cooling while maximizing natural methods. And then you can sit back and better enjoy the comfort of your home.