Author Topic: Improving the energy efficiency of your windows  (Read 4010 times)

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Offline clearchoicewindows

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Improving the energy efficiency of your windows
« on: December 21, 2012, 07:39:54 AM »
Energy efficient vinyl windows are the best solution if you want to lower the heat losses in your home. The US Department of Energy stated that energy-efficient windows can reduce heating or cooling costs by as much as 20 to 30%. If you want to save some money this winter and you can't afford vinyl window replacement, here are some tips to improve the energy efficiency of your windows

How to improve the energy-efficiency of your windows depends on what kind of windows you have. Old windows need more work and attention. Try to locate possible leaks. One way to do that is to light a candle near the window flame and if it flickers or goes out, then you need some vinyl window repair, which you can do it yourself. Apply removable caulk around fissures surrounding your windows and doors and wipe away any excess. If you've done this before and there is old caulk around your windows, remove and replace it. It is best to do this on a dry day, if you really want energy efficient vinyl windows. You can also use exterior paint over the wood filter for extra protection.

Living in a cold environment may require some extra protection for your home, such as replacing your screens with storm windows. This is an alternative if you're not currently looking for vinyl window replacement. The recommended ones are fiberglass, wood and vinyl. Aluminum frames are for warm climates, so don't let yourself fooled by a smaller price. If you're on a restricted budget ask your home improvement retailer for some advice: Which one is the best, but also fits your budget.

Working on your energy efficient windows should take a few hours. time you can't compare with the satisfaction you'll feel when you'll see that small energy bill. Remember that sealing your windows, doors, walls and even attic is the road to some nice savings.
« Last Edit: December 21, 2012, 10:59:58 AM by THF-Man »

Offline Penny

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Re: Improving the energy efficiency of your windows
« Reply #1 on: December 21, 2012, 08:14:31 PM »
Energy efficient vinyl windows are the best solution if you want to lower the heat losses in your home. The US Department of Energy stated that energy-efficient windows can reduce heating or cooling costs by as much as 20 to 30%. If you want to save some money this winter and you can't afford vinyl window replacement, here are some tips to improve the energy efficiency of your windows

How to improve the energy-efficiency of your windows depends on what kind of windows you have. Old windows need more work and attention. Try to locate possible leaks. One way to do that is to light a candle near the window flame and if it flickers or goes out, then you need some vinyl window repair, which you can do it yourself. Apply removable caulk around fissures surrounding your windows and doors and wipe away any excess. If you've done this before and there is old caulk around your windows, remove and replace it. It is best to do this on a dry day, if you really want energy efficient vinyl windows. You can also use exterior paint over the wood filter for extra protection.

Living in a cold environment may require some extra protection for your home, such as replacing your screens with storm windows. This is an alternative if you're not currently looking for vinyl window replacement. The recommended ones are fiberglass, wood and vinyl. Aluminum frames are for warm climates, so don't let yourself fooled by a smaller price. If you're on a restricted budget ask your home improvement retailer for some advice: Which one is the best, but also fits your budget.

Working on your energy efficient windows should take a few hours. time you can't compare with the satisfaction you'll feel when you'll see that small energy bill. Remember that sealing your windows, doors, walls and even attic is the road to some nice savings.

Thanks for these tips clearchoicewindows!  The THF site has a few articles on how to DIY repair, replace and installing vinyl windows.  Check out this one: http://thehousingforum.com/how-to-install-replacement-vinyl-windows/

Offline Penny

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Re: Improving the energy efficiency of your windows
« Reply #2 on: December 21, 2012, 08:18:50 PM »
  :reading:  Clearchoicewindows, you may also enjoy reading this THF article.  It gives instructions for weather-sealing a window: http://thehousingforum.com/how-to-seal-windows-for-winter/

Offline coolpeter

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Re: Improving the energy efficiency of your windows
« Reply #3 on: December 22, 2012, 09:29:50 AM »
Why not Green Windows. Also it is well understood that hot air normally is lighter than cold ones. One can use this philosophy also to design their windows suitable for both weather. Also windows requirement is different for every part of United States.

Offline Penny

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Re: Improving the energy efficiency of your windows
« Reply #4 on: December 22, 2012, 06:48:27 PM »
Why not Green Windows. Also it is well understood that hot air normally is lighter than cold ones. One can use this philosophy also to design their windows suitable for both weather. Also windows requirement is different for every part of United States.

You've made an excellent point, Coolpeter!  Building codes and weather conditions vary from one place to another, and the windows should be selected accordingly.  Here's is a link to a publication that the U.S. Department of Energy has published regarding the selection of windows for energy efficiency that you and other  THF forum members may find useful.

 








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