In order to maximize energy savings, you must constantly look for every possible advantage that could help you to save money and increase your overall comfort throughout the year. While you may consider more obvious solutions such as upgrading your current HVAC system with a more energy efficient one, it is easy to ignore less obvious ones like weatherizing windows.
There are many approaches you can take toward weatherizing windows. The following offers a few creative solutions for helping to reduce energy loss throughout your home.
Longer-Lasting Fixes for Drafty Windows
Weatherizing is the best option for dealing with drafts that could cost you in comfort and energy consumption. Here are a few more long-term solutions you can use to reduce heat loss and improve the efficiency of your heating system:
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Replace the glazing putty – The existing putty can crack and rot over time, so a replacement can do wonders for stopping leaks.
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Add interior storm windows – Storm windows can be added to the inside or outside of existing windows. There are different types of storm windows — from plastic sheets, to thicker, longer-lasting materials. Interior storm windows however are easier to install, last longer, and are more effective for reducing the amount of air that filters in or out.
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Consider a window replacement – Windows can and do wear out. If your windows are so worn that repair is pointless, it may be time to replace them with newer and more energy-efficient windows, including the latest in Low-E and insulated windows.
Quick Fixes
Weatherizing windows can take time and effort, so here are a few short-term solutions you can put to good use as you work on long-term window weatherization:
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Apply self-adhesive V-seal weatherstripping – These plastic V-strips are designed to effectively reduce drafts. V-strips have been found to cut down air infiltration by as much as 13 percent.
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Use rope caulk to fill in cracks and gaps – Over time, gaps and cracks can open up in sashes and other portions of your windows. Rope caulk is a soft and sticky material that can be molded to fully close off gaps, plus it’s easily removable in preparation for more permanent fixes.
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Break out the draft snake – This simple foam tube is affordable and easy to use, making them the go-to solution for stopping drafts in a pinch.
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Use clear nail polish to fill in cracked panes – If you are not quite ready to replace cracked window panes, you can close off smaller cracks and stabilize the glass itself by filling the cracks with clear acrylic nail polish.
Curtains Can Also Help
Heat energy constantly migrates from warm areas into cooler areas, and this could add some extra work for your furnace, heat pump or air conditioner. This generally results in wasted energy and an expensive energy bill. Insulated curtains are a decorative and effective way to protect your home from unnecessary heat loss through your windows. Insulated curtains help to reduce or stop the loss of warm air to the colder areas.
Unlike ordinary curtains, insulated curtains contain a high-density foam layer that helps to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping your home. They also have a reflective vapor barrier that also blocks moisture. These curtains prevent or reduce heat loss via conduction, infiltration, radiation, and convection.
A reflective film also helps to redirect escaping heat back into your home, which can be especially valuable during Maryland’s frigid winters. Insulated curtains are just another tool you can use when weatherizing windows in your Annapolis home.
Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. can provide more solutions and products to ensure you are maximizing energy savings and system performance in your home. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 410-919-0110.
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