Energy Efficient Windows Are More Affordable Than You Think
Finding ways to cut back on energy usage is a big deal, especially in the cooler and warmer months when energy bills tend to skyrocket. Windows play a big part in the hike in price due to leaks from insufficient amounts of insulation. This is particularly true for older homes. A good money-saving home improvement option is to replace older windows with energy efficient windows, which will help prevent the unwanted loss of energy, saving you money in the long run.
What Are Energy Efficient Windows?
The frame around your windows may be aesthetically pleasing, but it’s really all about the glass. Energy efficient windows keep the cooler air in and the heat and UV rays out during the summer, while keeping the heat in and the cold air out during the cooler months. Newer energy efficient replacement windows have a large variety of options. Thermal-paned windows, which have an insulated glazing that reduces heat transfer, leave you with a lower utility bill and a decrease in energy consumption. For an extra installation fee, choose a double- or triple-paned window, which provides more insulation and will increase in value.
An Investment for Your Home
Even if you’re not currently thinking about selling your home, you do want to make good home improvement choices for the prospect of selling in the future.Replacement windows are attractive to buyers looking to save on home improvement costs. In addition, think about how much you will save from low-maintenance, energy-efficient windows. There are also government incentives and tax breaks, such as a partial reimbursement, for installing energy saving windows in your home. Not only will you have a lower utility bill, you won’t have to worry about improving them later.
How to Tell If Your Windows Are Energy Efficient
If you’re wondering whether you already have energy efficient windows, look for a sticker with National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) ratings, which qualifies your windows for Energy Star status. The sticker will cover the U-Factor, measuring a window’s resistance to heat loss, as well as the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which measures the amount of heat that enters through the glass. The lower the numbers, the better. As a bonus, these windows come in different shapes and sizes so you will still be able to achieve the look you want with your windows. Since having energy efficient windows means less energy lost, you will also be responsible for shrinking your carbon footprint. Ultimately, it’s good for your wallet and the environment.
Are you ready to make a money-saving investment in your MA home? Contact usand request a no obligation quote. Colony Home Improvement specializes in replacement windows and other quality home improvements.