Windows can do an immense amount for our homes. From letting light in and opening up our spaces to highlighting beautiful views, windows are extremely important for any functional home. We all know the basics of how windows work, and if you’ve owned a home for any extent of time, you probably know of a few things to look out for when it comes to your windows. Besides traditional issues like fogging, mold, and water damage, there are dozens of other things that can go wrong or create optimizations in your windows. If you would like to learn more about how you can upgrade your windows, contact the elite team here at LEI Home Enhancements today. Here are three things most people don’t know about their windows.
Energy Traps
Energy costs in the heat of summer and the cold of winter can quickly skyrocket as your HVAC system struggles to keep up with making your home feel temperate and comfortable. One of the main sources of lost energy for any home is faulty or leaky windows. According to the US Department Of Energy, 25% of the average American energy bill is lost from leaky or faulty windows. This can be due to broken seals, thin windows, or just having the wrong windows for your area. You will always lose some heat through your windows, as they will never be as insulated as walls, but you can save hundreds just by swapping out old windows. You can easily save up to 15% on your energy bill by installing energy-efficient windows.
U-Factor
Many windows claim to be energy efficient and have good insulation, but how can you know if that is true? The U-factor of a window is a number ranging from .20 to 1.2 that measures just how well the window insulates a space. The lower the U-factor, the more insulation a window will provide. This in turn will help you lower your monthly energy costs through the harshest heat and chilliest cold fronts.
Framing Material Makes A Big Difference
It may seem like the least of your worries, but the material that your window framing is made out of can make a world of difference. Aluminum framing is a durable option but lacks insulation. Natural wood remains a great option and is fairly good at insulation, but it can be prone to water damage. If you are looking for the best way to keep your window frames looking great and functioning efficiently for years to come, vinyl is one of your best options. Vinyl framing is extremely cost-efficient, is water and wind-resistant, and will remain durable and beautiful for years to come. Vinyl is also one of the easiest materials to keep clean, making it extremely easy to maintain.
If you would like to learn more about how you can upgrade your windows and lower your energy costs, contact LEI Home Enhancements today. Our team will help you find the perfect options for your budget to make sure your home looks and functions beautifully for years.
