10 TIPS TO WINTERIZE YOUR WINDOWS
September 21st, 2007
10 Tips to Winterize Your Windows
When you decide it is time to use energy efficient winterizing, try to keep these 10 tips in mind. This may not be a glamorizing job like redoing your bathrooms, only replacing windows should be above all on the top of your to do list. Window replacement can offer you a high pay back in the long run. The magazine about Remodeling says that over 90 percent of an average cost is what it will be to replace 20 double hung windows. Then if you choose wisely, the new windows should even lower the air conditioning and the heating bills. It is easy to know when a refrigerator goes out and can not be resuscitated, many of the home owners find it to be even tougher to recognize when it is time to replace the windows.
The following red flags indicate that it is time to replace:
1.Rooms don’t stay as warm as when the heat is on.
2.Air is entering around the windows.
3.Rooms felt draftier last winter and the frost appeared on the inside panes.
4.Areas of light are even visible around the window perimeters, indicating a seal failure and energy loss.
5.Windows no longer open and close easily.
6.The area rugs and furnishings show signs of a burn out while the sun causes fading.
7.Windows shows signs of rotted wood.
8.The windows haven’t been replaced for 20 years or longer, which 20 years is a typical lifespan of the windows.
9.Windows are single rather than the double pane.
10.The aesthetics of the windows no longer appeal.
My friend decided to replace some of her windows in her 55 year old house for some of these 10 reasons. Her windows were very drafty in the winter time, and her windows offered her no UV protection at all, so her furniture and rugs faded. Then she made this big decision because of the high heating costs last winter and she wanted to take advantage of the government tax credit that you could get for the energy efficient windows.
When you make this big of a decision to replace, you need to know that not all new windows are created the same way. You need to take your time to understand the latest design advancements, and the latest technological, so you can select the right style for your home, plus your maintenance tolerance and the budget. Also you need to be concerned about the quality of the windows, and try to ask a reputable builder and remodeler for any recommendations about the different brands, and consult with an architect about the different style choices.
These are a few more considerations:
*Style is very important because it can affect the appeal of your home.
*Then when it comes to the climate, vinyl is a good one to choose for the cold or warm areas because they insulate well. Also wood is a very good choice. But if you are in a hurricane prone area, you may want to consider the impact resistant glass, which is similar to what you may find in an auto’s windshield, only it is more costly.
You can go to the National Fenestration Rating Council’s web site to get the information on how to compare energy performance. By improving on the energy efficient of your windows these 10 tips can help you before winter blows.
Entry Filed under: Window & Doors Resource
