For Energy-Efficiency: Weather-stripping Windows

You can increase your utility savings through durable and energy-efficient windows from your local distributor. However, just because you’ve got new windows installed doesn’t mean you can automatically cut down on your power consumption. You still need to ensure that the news windows are doing their job properly. For one, you might have to add weather-stripping in between your window frames and the wall to keep the air from escaping.

Essentially, weather-stripping is the process of sealing off the remaining passage of air around the window frame or sill. This is crucial for homes, particularly those in northeastern states that are in constant battle with temperature swings. Keep in mind that virtually all types of modern windows allow a certain degree of leakage. With double-hung windows, the weather-stripping part of the installation process may only be minimal, with particular attention paid to the top of the frame.

To completely eliminate the need for weather-stripping your replacement windows, you can try installing picture or fixed windows instead of adjustable ones. Although effective at remedying leak problems, fixed windows have some disadvantages, too, like the inability to open them in the first place. Such windows may help you conserve energy but only to a certain extent as they are clearly unable to let the breezes in during summer.

What Makes Energy-Efficient Windows Tick?

Energy efficiency at home largely has to do with windows. The best windows trap hot air within on cold days and keep it out during hot days, thereby reducing the burden on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system as well as cutting down your energy bill. Yet exactly what features should you look for in an energy-efficient window?

If you live in an area with diverse climate conditions, then you naturally need the sort of windows that perform well in any season. Be it casement or awning, thicker panes and impermeable frames help reduce excessive heat loss and hot gain, which are the main culprits behind unusually high energy bills.

Modern replacement windows, in other words, are designed with optimum insulation in mind. Not all window models are created equal, however. For instance, casement windows often have a higher R factor (which measures insulation) compared to sliding windows.

Regardless of the type of window you choose for your upcoming window replacement project it is vital to understand what sets apart the new models from the traditional ones. This way, you can make the most of your investment. Likewise, be sure to choose a reputable supplier with considerable experience in serving the needs of the local market.