How Energy Efficient Are Those Old Windows?
Becoming a homeowner is a big deal, and it requires a lot of quick acclimation and learning about basic DIY. All of the sudden, you start to pay attention to aspects of the home you never gave much thought to before—like the windows. In particular, if you’ve recently bought an old house, the windows can be a real sticking point. If your house still has the original ones, or you’re thinking about replacing them as part of a remodel, it’s important to understand a little bit more about how windows affect energy consumption.
The energy efficiency of old windows is a topic that is often misunderstood, but working with a high-end window supplier in Glenwood Springs, CO can help you cut through the noise. Here’s what you need to know.
The Importance of Windows
Windows aren’t just your home’s major source of natural light and airflow—they can also have a big impact on energy efficiency. By most estimates, heat transfer through windows is responsible for about 25-30% of HVAC energy usage. This means that inefficient windows can let cool air out in the summer and warm air out in the winter, which means that your HVAC system has to labor even harder to maintain the set temperatures.
To combat this loss, the efficiency of the windows is paramount. Their condition should be regularly checked to make sure they’re properly sealed and that no unabated drafts are present around the frame.
Updating Your Windows
In many instances, totally replacing older windows isn’t necessarily the best route to go. Instead, a high-end window supplier in Glenwood Springs, CO might instead recommend updating older windows if they’re still in good shape.
There’s no need to tear out and throw away something that can be repaired and modernized, and older windows are no exception. Our technicians can breathe new life into your windows and increase their efficiency by repairing caulk and air leaks, adding window treatments or solar control film, or adding components like storm windows or shading. All these can help contribute to a window’s improved efficiency.
When to Replace Old Windows
If your older windows are too far gone to make repair worthwhile, or if you’re after a new look, replacing the windows might be the option for you. Working with a high-end window supplier in Glenwood Springs, CO can make this process seamless. Our team will advise you on everything from frame types, to glazing types, to your options on gases and spacers between panes of glass.
We can also make our own recommendations if you prefer, but the general rule of thumb that we use is that you should be purchasing the best windows that you can afford. Windows are one item that you should never skimp on!
Make the Best Decision for Your Windows
Older windows, particularly ones that have had regular maintenance over the years, are more energy efficient than many people realize. The fact that a window is old is no reason to automatically replace it. Instead, a qualified professional should help you evaluate its condition and determine whether or not it might be time to put in a new one.
Our team at Architectural Windows & Doors can help you with all things windows, so get in touch with us today for a consultation. We’ll help you make the best choice for your windows and their efficiency.
Categorised in: Energy Efficient Windows