TAKING A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
Start from the outside to save energy costs
A house with no windows is a lot like an oatmeal cookie without the raisins. It still works, but something’s missing. Windows bring some obvious applications to the table: they let in natural light, allow for airflow, and provide ventilation for your home.
But one other important function is their ability to keep your home from leaking its treated, comfortable air into the outdoors. Whenever you’re planning upgrades for your home, I always say to focus on your building envelope first. By working on the outside first, you’re taking steps to protect what’s inside — and make it more energy efficient, too.
Here are some signs you’re ready for new windows:
DIFFICULT TO OPERATE
It shouldn’t take all your strength just to open and close your windows to let some air in. If they don’t work like they used to, such as not opening smoothly, or getting stuck in the track, you’re likely ready for new windows. For true accessibility, windows should only require one hand to operate. Casement and awning windows that open and close with a crank are easiest to use.
THEY START TO CRY
When the temperature outdoors starts to dip and your heat kicks in, do your windows develop condensation? If this is a recurring problem, it could be indicative of bad windows. Don’t rip out the windows just yet because there are a few potential causes of weeping windows.
Condensation on windows can be caused by a lack of ventilation. If a house is very well sealed, and lacks mechanical ventilation, humidity levels can get too high. Ideally, relative humidity in the home should be kept between 35 per cent and 45 per cent.
First, turn down your humidifier by about 10 per cent and see if you still get that buildup. Take a look at the seal around your windows, and replace old, worn, or missing caulking. It could solve the issue completely.
If the condensation appears between panes of the window, odds are the airtight seal meant to stop heat transfer is broken, and it’s time to replace them with new windows.
VISIBLE DAMAGE
Freezing rain, ice, sleet, high winds and even UV rays can start to affect the health of your windows. Look out for things like cracks in the window glass, or visible signs of water damage. Check your frames for warping, mould and rot. If they’re starting to show major signs of damage, it’s time for new windows.
THEY’RE JUST PLAIN OLD
Finally, old windows simply don’t do the job the newer, more energy efficient models do. If your windows are seriously old, you might be looking at single pane units instead of double or triple paned glass. These single paned windows are totally energy inefficient. Investing in new windows will offer long-term savings on your energy bills.
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