Fall is the perfect time to install new home windows before the winter hits. Not only will it save you money and eventually pay for itself, but it will also protect your home from any potential cold damage. Cold damage can lead to ice dams, mold, or wood rot, so it’s best to stay safe and secure this winter by installing new windows in the fall.
“In October, a maple tree before your window lights up your room like a great lamp. Even on cloudy days, its presence helps to dispel the gloom.” - John Burroughs
Improving Instead of Replacing
For some homes or budgets, the replacement windows cost isn’t quite feasible. But it is possible to upgrade your existing windows through various means. Some of the following ideas can easily improve the functionality of your windows:
- Caulking around the sill
- Weatherstripping
- Storm windows
- Window treatments
- Certain coverings
Best Energy Efficient Windows
Choosing the right fit for your home is a huge part of why energy efficient models are such big business. Sure, you can pick out a window treatment like UV protection, which will help block out harmful rays and aid you in your energy costs. Alternatively, you can get the most for your money and pick out new windows with the highest “U-value” available for maximum savings.
Window replacement companies can walk you through the major choices you have for your home, and they will generally revolve around the following types of frames:
- Aluminum - for rainy or humid areas
- Wood - for maximum insulation
- Vinyl - for budget friendly projects
- Wood-clad - for the best of both worlds
The Most Energy Efficient Models
When looking for the best energy efficient windows for sale, there are several factors that come into play. The SHGC, or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, measures how much heat enters the home via the glass panel. Energy Star has a wide array of figures that can assist you in picking out the perfect window panes for your home. This can lead to incredible economic savings. Either way, it can never hurt to familiarize yourself with the different types of energy efficient windows.
Price vs. Energy Efficiency
The main drawback that isn’t technically a drawback is that the most energy efficient windows can also tend to be the most expensive. While this can be a true statement, more energy efficient models also save you more in the long run, thus effectively paying for themselves.
That’s why companies like Energy Star are so important, because they can bottom-line the information for you and help you pick out the best energy efficient windows for your home.
Double and/or Triple Paned Windows
Another great example of modern technology influencing older designs, double and triple paned windows can go a step further into insulating your home effectively. While double panes are significantly more expensive than single, triple panes aren’t much more expensive than double, so it may be best to go all out and opt for triple pane installation. No matter what, it will keep your home warm for the fall and winter months.
There’s more:
Different energy efficient windows prices will certainly come into play, which again, is the reason Energy Star is so important. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what specifications your glass needs to be in order to save you money, e.g. how many panes of window to go for. So contact an expert to get a better understanding of how windows work.
Different Types of New Home Windows
There are many different kinds of window styles to choose from. Knowing which styles or functions best fit your home is critical in picking out the correct set of energy efficient windows. Prices will vary depending on certain circumstances, but here’s a brief list of the different kinds of windows you can have installed:
- Awning
- Bay
- Casement
- Clerestory
- Double-hung sash
- Double-paned
- Eyebrow
- Fixed
- French
- Hexagonal window
- Hopper
- Horizontal sliding sash
- Jalousie window
- Multi-lite
- Oriel
- Picture
- Pivot
- Roof
- Roof lantern
- Sidelight
- Single-hung sash
- Skylight
- Stained glass
- Transom
- Tilt and slide
- Tilt and turn
- Thermal
Any window or energy saving tips you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more great tips and inspiration!
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