Did you know that 30% of your home’s cooling and heating is lost through its windows and doors? That the amount of energy wasted through poorly insulated windows in the US is equal to the amount of energy we receive from the Alaska Pipeline each year? You could probably run a small country with that much energy...
This picture shows how windows are the perfect escape route for heat in the winter. Since heat gets out so easily during winter, you can probably figure just how much heat invades your home in summer.
If you are an avid reader of this blog, you probably know that installing energy efficient windows is the way to go when trying to rein in energy costs (if not, you can learn more from our blog on energy efficient windows). However, there are some other things you can do to summer-proof your windows and keep the heat out.
1. Installing energy saving blinds or curtains
The blinds on your windows make a significant difference when it comes to the amount of heating getting into your house. Installing blinds or curtains with a white surface that is facing out will reflect heat from the house. In addition, some blinds and curtain brands make special energy-efficient products.
These white Weathermate curtains from World Market have thermal insulating properties.
2. Seal the hot air out
Check your window and door frames to see if any hot air is leaking in. If this is the case, it is probably time to think about replacing your windows. In the meantime, a short term solution can be had by sealing your window and door frames with caulk or weather striping.
3. Film your windows
Applying window film to your windows can reflect much of the sun’s heat. In addition, window film suppliers such as Gila have do-it-yourself products, making window film a fairly economical option.
A how-to on installing window film
While all of these tips will help to keep the heat out, we have not yet talked about the #1 way to summer-proof your windows-replace them! Installing energy-efficient windows are by far the most effective way to save your family money on energy costs over time. Brennan Enterprises, an A+ BBB and Angie's List Super Service Winner, can help you through the window buying process, from the initial free consultation to installing the windows themselves. We have served over 50,000 customers throughout Dallas-Fort Worth in our 33 years of business. Brennan Enterprises can be reached at 817-860-9767 (Fort Worth), 972-660-3106 (Dallas), or 888-503-0044 (Toll Free).
Sources
The Window Film Company YouTube page
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