How Windows Can Become Energy Saving Investments

Not just older windows are in need of replacing-- but also windows that aren't sealed properly let in excess air

. How can you evaluate the condition and most of all the energy efficiency of your home's windows?

Who to Ask

Of course you can talk to the local energy expert or contractor. These people are both very excellent choices because of their experience and knowledge that they can relay to you. However, each expert could have a different opinion. So, the best idea is to have a budget in mind and a level of priority on this project. This way you'll be able to evaluate the information that is being presented to you, without swaying back and forth uncertain and confused.

The Older Windows

The older the window the greater the likelihood that your home will be drafty and an energy waster-- but why?!

Most older homes' windows are only single-pane and have minimal tinting or coating. This is why your home is a bit chillier than you'd prefer. When these older windows aren't as heavily sealed or tinted, air can easily creep into your home and make for some chilly nights.

In addition, the summer months can become far hotter and unbearable with an older window. The cooler air escapes as the hot sun beats through your windows. Not a good combination for any homeowner or their electric bill. Looking for a better understanding about older windows? Let's talk about low-e.

The Low-e Coating

If you're wondering about how a coating or tint could really influence the temperature within your home, we have your answer. It's got a lot to do with low emissivity: low-e.

Low-e is a coating made of very thinly layered metal deposits. Its composition makes it quite valuable during a hot summer day or a cool winter night. During the summer, this coating actually prevents the infrared and ultraviolet rays from entering your home, thus only allowing the visible light to enter. This makes for a cooler home during the hot and humid summer because the solar heat is being reflected.

This low-e coating can also help during the winter by maintaining your home's ambient heat and reducing heat loss.

Conserving Energy and the ROI

The u-value and r-value are both very important when understanding the amount of energy being released through your home's windows. You want to have a low u-value and a high r-value.

The u-value represents the difference between the temperature outside and inside, which shows you how much heat is being lost or gained.

According to many home remodeling experts, include those with Remodeling Magazine, energy efficient windows are one of the home improvements that reap a high return on investment. In fact, the Cost vs. Value report distributed by Remodeling Magazine indicates that curb appeal and energy efficient window replacements are very high on the list.

With low-e coating, low u-value, high r-value, and the double-pane design; your windows will quickly begin saving you money and provide an efficient return on investment. Even where such updates cost more money, they quickly make up for this price when the window maintains a low u-value.

So, if you're looking into maintaining a more energy efficient and comfortable home, be sure to consider purchasing replacement windows or ask a local contractor for other ways to improve your home's energy efficiency.

by: John Smith

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