WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Like most decisions, the answer can be determined by examining your goals.
If your goal is to minimize the impact you have on the environment, then you should look for windows that have U-values at least .2 lower than your current windows. This will allow the amount of energy used in creating the window to be offset by the electrical savings you will gain. Still, our team advises not to be hasty; unless you have single pane windows, the affect always so great to account for the creation of wasted materials. If you chose to replace your windows make sure you recycle the glass so the internal energy stored in the glass isn’t lost.
If your goals are economical then you should replace your windows only if they are very old or single glazed. If you have new, double glazed windows, your best option is to minimize your SHGC. The best way to do this would be with a solar screen. If this is an aesthetically displeasing option, consider the other solutions, including curtains and special window glazes that reduce the visual transmittance.
Lastly, if you are looking to lower your energy loss but cannot afford to make many of the adaptations prescribed above, there are still ways to lower costs. Solar screens are a cheap option for reducing your electricity bill, especially if you have windows that receive long periods of exposed sunlight. You should also make sure that there are no gaps in the frame or connection of window panels that would allow air leakage. Simply caulking over leaks or using vinyl tape is often enough to noticeably lower your electricity bill.
Whatever you chose to do you, should remember that maintaining your windows should come first before you start to think about replacements. Ensuring that there are no gaps, leaks or fractures is essential to maintaining optimal performance of your windows.
Like most decisions, the answer can be determined by examining your goals.
If your goal is to minimize the impact you have on the environment, then you should look for windows that have U-values at least .2 lower than your current windows. This will allow the amount of energy used in creating the window to be offset by the electrical savings you will gain. Still, our team advises not to be hasty; unless you have single pane windows, the affect always so great to account for the creation of wasted materials. If you chose to replace your windows make sure you recycle the glass so the internal energy stored in the glass isn’t lost.
If your goals are economical then you should replace your windows only if they are very old or single glazed. If you have new, double glazed windows, your best option is to minimize your SHGC. The best way to do this would be with a solar screen. If this is an aesthetically displeasing option, consider the other solutions, including curtains and special window glazes that reduce the visual transmittance.
Lastly, if you are looking to lower your energy loss but cannot afford to make many of the adaptations prescribed above, there are still ways to lower costs. Solar screens are a cheap option for reducing your electricity bill, especially if you have windows that receive long periods of exposed sunlight. You should also make sure that there are no gaps in the frame or connection of window panels that would allow air leakage. Simply caulking over leaks or using vinyl tape is often enough to noticeably lower your electricity bill.
Whatever you chose to do you, should remember that maintaining your windows should come first before you start to think about replacements. Ensuring that there are no gaps, leaks or fractures is essential to maintaining optimal performance of your windows.
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