Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency with New Windows

New windows come with a lot of benefits, from solving the problem of a drafty room to upgrading your home’s curb appeal. Yet perhaps one of the greatest benefits of new windows is how much it will save you on your energy costs. Berg Home Improvements offers expert window installations with a wide variety of options to help you keep the chill out of your home and save on energy this winter. 

Do New Windows Really Save Energy?

If you’ve walked near your windows and felt a chill before, that means that cold air is seeping into your house, bringing temperatures down. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat transfer through windows is responsible for as much as 25-30% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. That’s a lot of energy. 

While new windows can be a large investment, they can also save you on utility bills. ENERGY STAR, a government-backed program, reports that “replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR-certified windows lowers household energy bills by an average of 12 percent nationwide.” 12 percent can add up quickly, as a well-installed window might last you for over 20 years. Berg Home Improvements offers a wide selection of replacement windows from industry leaders, including ENERGY STAR-certified options.

How Do Windows Affect Energy Use?

In theory, a well-designed and properly sealed window should keep outside air out of your home. However, windows can become outdated or damaged over time, decreasing their energy efficiency.

There are a number of reasons you might want to consider replacing your windows. Seals can break, and cold air and condensation can start to creep in, making a room drafty. While there are smaller issues like caulk and weatherstripping that you may be able to repair, a significantly damaged or warped window should be replaced. 

If your windows are especially old, it’s also worth considering that newer design features can also increase your energy efficiency. The Department of Energy recommends using insulated windows, meaning that they have two or more panes of glass. While additional coatings, gas fillers, and spacings might increase the upfront cost of a window, they can save you on energy over time. 

What Type of Window Should I Choose?

When choosing a new window, there’s a handful of factors that you might consider when making a decision about the type of window you’re installing. Different shapes and opening methods are among the most obvious, but there are hidden considerations when it comes to energy efficiency. 

The way that a window opens can allow for more or less air leakage. For instance, sliding windows allow more air to escape than styles that utilize hinges. Hinged windows close by pressing against the frame, leading to a better seal. 

Requesting an Estimate

With winter coming, there are plenty of reasons to consider upgrading the windows in your house, keeping your family warm and your energy bills low. Old windows can lose their touch over time, while new ones have up-to-date technology to keep out the cold. To learn more about energy-efficient window replacements for your home, reach out to us at Berg Home Improvements today!