Your windows provide you with a nice view of the outdoors, natural sunlight, and a beautiful home. Ensuring you have the right window insulation is vital to keeping your inside temperatures comfortable year-round.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, choosing properly insulated windows could save you hundreds of dollars each year on your energy bill.
Before you get new windows installed, read on for a list of the top seven window insulation tips that everyone should know.
1. Replace Weather Stripping to Improve Insulation
Quality insulated windows do a great job of keeping your home comfortable. But replacing weather stripping around the frame makes a big difference in terms of overall insulation.
Check the weather stripping around the windows in your home and look for any gaps, missing pieces, or damage. All you need to do is purchase some at your local home improvement store, remove the old weather stripping, and replace it with some new pieces.
Weatherstripping is easy to install thanks to a simple adhesive backing. Just cut each piece to fit and gently press it down around the area once it’s clean and dry.
2. Consider Fiberglass Windows
If you’re looking into new window insulation costs, consider opting for fiberglass window frames. This material is extremely durable and has an exceptionally impressive compression strength for added longevity.
You can also find fiberglass windows available in a wide variety of colors to suit your home and curb appeal. As for insulation, fiberglass frames have a low thermal expansion, which means they don’t contract or expand like wood.
With their high conductivity and low thermal expansion, fiberglass windows will keep their shape, preventing air leaks from getting inside. These windows are also ideal for multiple panes of glass to provide an even better level of thermal performance.
3. Try Low-E Coatings on Window Glass
Low-E stands for low emissivity which is a special glass coating designed to reduce infrared and ultraviolet light. This specially coated glass can keep the hot rays of the sun from penetrating your home’s interior.
An extremely thin coating is applied to the glass that reflects heat. This coating is so thin, that you can’t see it with the naked eye.
If you’re thinking about insulated windows, you can’t go wrong by opting for some with low-E coatings. The coating keeps the temperature inside your home consistent because it reflects it back inside for optimum comfort.
4. Apply Window Insulation Film
If you’re concerned about window insulation costs, give this special film a try. Window insulation film is a clear, thin material that comes in rolls or sections, and you can easily cut each one to size.
Simply press the film onto the glass using the adhesive, then gently sweep it with a hair dryer to smooth out the wrinkles. Window insulation film provides a protective barrier between your windows and the outside. It’s mostly used during the winter to keep your home warmer when temperatures drop.
5. Try Thermal Window Curtains
As you think of how to insulate windows, adding some thermal curtains is one of the easiest methods. These thick, light-blocking curtains use a thin piece of foam between two layers of fabric to protect your home from drafts.
Most thermal curtains are reasonably priced and you can find them at most big-box stores or online. They come in a variety of colors, so it’s easy to fit a set that suits your home’s interior design.
While thermal curtains will insulate your windows, they could make your home too warm during the summer. Consider switching back to lighter-weight curtains or blinds as the outdoor temperatures start to rise.
6. Upgrade to Energy Star Windows
Perhaps the best way to improve window insulation is by upgrading your older windows to some that are Energy Star rated. These windows are proven to be effective at keeping your home cool during the summer and warm during the winter.
Every Energy Star window and other products must meet or exceed the energy efficiency guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Energy. The windows must undergo a rigorous testing process that is performed by an independent lab.
These high standards mean that your brand-new windows will keep your home as comfortable and energy efficient as possible. Choose low-E glass, multiple panes of glass, windows with a gas fill between the panes, and gas fill composed of argon or krypton.
7. Know How to Insulate Windows
If you notice drafts or gaps in your windows, it’s important to know how to correct the issue. Make sure the frames are in good shape and seal any drafts with caulk or add new weather stripping.
You can also find window insulation kits at many home improvement stores. These all-in-one kits have everything you need to get the job done until you’re ready to purchase new windows. Being proactive about your window insulation is the best way to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient.
Take Care of Your Windows, Take Care of Your Home
Keep these window insulation tips in mind if you’re looking for ways to keep your home comfortable. Whether it’s through getting new Energy Star rated windows, switching to fiberglass, or doing things DIY, it’s a great way to save money and keep your space comfy all year round.
If you live in the Champaign, IL area and are interested in getting new windows, be sure to get in touch with us today for an estimate or to find out more.
