Homes that are not properly insulated lose lots of heat during the winter, causing energy bills to skyrocket. While you may winterize your home by adding insulation to your pipes, making draft snakes for your doors, or by giving your old insulation a boost, windows often go overlooked. However, there are some ways that you can better insulate your windows so you aren't throwing money away.
Replace Your Old Windows
While replacing your existing windows with vinyl replacement windows might seem expensive upfront, the savings on your heating bill can be worth the investment. If your existing windows have warped and no longer fit their frames, the wood has become rotted, or the window is cracked, biting the bullet and installing new windows can save you time and, more importantly, money.
Install Low-e Window Films
Low-e films, or low-emissivity films, have a special metallic coating the reduces the transfer of infrared heat between the interior and exterior window panes. Unlike other types of film, low-e films are attached directly to the window pane instead of the frames. This means that there is no pocket of air between the film and the window to deal with. In addition to making the room feel a bit warmer, you won't have to worry about inquisitive kids or pets messing with the film.
Temporary Window Improvements
If you're looking for a low-cost option, there are several temporary ways that you can reduce the amount of heat you are losing through your windows. For interior solutions, you can drape heavy curtains across the windows to reduce drafts. The only downside to relying on winter curtains is that they can reduce the amount of sunlight that comes into your home. Another option is to go with a stretch-plastic kit that attaches to your window frames. When heat is applied to the plastic, it shrinks to form a seal around the windows. It comes in a kit so you can add the film yourself.
Reduce Your Heat Loss this Winter
Because your windows can cause you to lose expensive heat, paying special attention to them can be the difference between expensive and inexpensive heating bills. Depending on the solutions that work for your windows, you could end up saving a significant amount of money on your heating costs every year.
