Originally published 10/8/2018
Benefits of replacing your windows
We’ve written about the pros and cons of various home improvement projects with an eye towards your home’s resale value. However, there are some projects that can provide an immediate financial benefit. One such project to consider is replacing older windows with energy efficient windows.
According to the Department of Energy, heat transfer through windows is responsible for up to 30% of your heating and cooling cost! Modern windows can include such features as solar reflective coatings on the glass, and double pane construction with an insulating gap between the panes. The insulating gap is generally filled with a gas, such as argon or krypton to improve the insulating properties. According to the Department of Energy’s Energy Star program, in our part of the country replacing an older single pane window can save you $280 annually, and replacing an older double pane window can save you $126 annually.
Not only can improved windows lower your monthly heating and cooling bill, but they can also reduce the peak cooling and heating loads on your HVAC system, which means you could potentially switch to a smaller size HVAC system when it comes time to replace it.
Better windows can increase the comfort level inside your home. Older windows create hot and cold spots near the windows due to all the heat the window is letting in or out. Similarly, older windows can increase the incidence of condensation the collects on or near the window. The increased level of moisture may increase the wear on the window frame and trim, and can contribute to mold formation inside your home.
Updated windows can reduce the level of wear on the interior of your home in areas near the windows. The coatings on modern windows can significantly reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) rays that penetrate through the window. UV rays cause carpet, wood, paper, and paint to fade.
The increased insulation of updated windows can even reduce the level of outside noises that make their way into your home.
If you are not in a position to replace your windows immediately, there are some other steps you may be able to take to improve the energy efficiency of the windows you already have. You can check your existing windows for air leaks, and install or replace the caulk and weather-stripping on the windows.
You can also add various types of window treatments to increase the efficiency of your windows. Window blinds are a good way to reduce incoming solar heat. Insulated cellular shades generally have the highest R values of all window treatments. During colder parts of the year, insulated cellular shades can reduce window heat loss by up to 40%, and during warmer parts of the year they can lower solar heat gain through your windows by up to 80%.
Finally, you can take steps such as adding solar control film to you windows, installing storm windows, or adding awnings to your windows.
Links to further information:
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/design/windows-doors-and-skylights/update-or-replace-windows
https://www.lifehack.org/530739/benefits-energy-efficient-windows-and-doors
https://www.efficientwindows.org/benefits.php