Preparing for the Cold: Replacement Windows and Doors

For the past several months, we've discussed the importance of energy efficiency in your home.

During the heat of summer, energy-efficiency is incredibly important when considering cooling costs in your home. Proper insulation, sealing, and window glazing are all essential in keeping the cool air in your home and preventing outdoor heat from entering.

But with the weather beginning to cool down, it’s time to start thinking backwards.

What do we mean by backwards? During the fall and winter months, it’s just as important to think about energy-efficiency. But instead of keeping the warm air outside and the cool air inside, think backwards: keep the cold air outside and the warm air inside.

If your windows and doors aren't properly insulated, then your whole home is vulnerable to energy loss. According to Energy Star, replacing your old and outdated windows and doors with Energy-Star rated products can lower your home’s energy bills by up to 15%.

What should you look for in your current windows to make sure you’re equipped for the upcoming cold weather?

Check for drafts. Check for the obvious first. Drafts are an obvious sign your windows or doors aren't properly insulated. If you’re feeling drafts of air coming through your windows or doors, they could be damaged, not properly sealed, or other issues that may not be visible.

Check the panes in your windows. The amount of panes in your window can tell you a lot about the window’s energy efficiency. Single-pane windows are the least energy-efficient and are big contributors to energy loss. Double-pane windows are a must in any home, while triple-pane windows offer even greater energy-efficiency for homeowners.

Look at the material. The material used in your windows and doors could also be an indicator of its ability to properly insulate your home. Vinyl and composite offer more energy-efficiency to homes than wood. Older products made of wood have a tendency to rot after being exposed to the elements for a long period of time, while vinyl and composite windows and doors have a much longer lifespan against the elements.

Want to get your home prepared for the upcoming fall and winter months? Contact our team today to discuss your window and door options!