Windows provide us fresh air, look, and a view from within. If not placed properly, house windows nor just mar the looks but also create certain issues. In summers, windows do not let the air in and in winters, they keep the rooms cold. Moreover, the energy cost can trouble you, as saving energy could be a problem. You can easily improve the energy efficiency of existing windows by adding storm windows and weather-stripping. Adding window treatments or covering could also serve the purpose.
Energy efficient windows make the home more comfortable, reduce the energy cost, and help to create brighter, cleaner, and healthier environment. If you are living in a very old house, it would be a lot of trouble for you to have energy efficient windows. However, at the same time, it is more cost-effective to replace the windows to improve their energy efficiency. Energy efficient windows pay for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs, and sometimes even lighting costs.
You should research the energy performance ratings of windows before selecting the specific type for your house. Only after having a rating, you could decide among all. When windows are not sealed properly, then they can affect your comfort level and increase the energy cost as well.
Variety of materials used:
Wood: Wood because of the potential for decay may not be the best choice for extremely humid or rainy climates. However, a well-built wood window could be much better.
Aluminium: Aluminium windows are practical in rainy, humid climates and they have the strength.
Vinyl: Vinyl window may not give you the liberty of choosing the colour but a properly constructed and well-installed window can be a practical choice.
Wood-Clad: Wood-clad windows offer the best of both worlds, a low-maintain ace exterior (usually Vinyl or aluminium) encasing a temperature-transfer-resistant wood interior.
Window manufacturers have to meet standards on following metrics:
U-Value: Measures a window’s resistance to heat loss.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much heat enters a home through the glass.
For both U-Value and SHC, the lower the number, the better the window performs.
You have to be particular while choosing window designs and should not overlook the installation. Even the most expensive window unit might not perform effectively, if you do not install it correctly. Pre-installed waterproofing, completed long before windows installation, could be a better option. Flashing and proper caulking may be the cheapest parts of the window installation, but if they are not done properly, water leaks would be the result.
Summary
Windows, if placed thoughtfully, could enhance the beauty of your house, and installing energy efficient windows would be a much better option.]]>