Did you know that according to the U.S. Department of Energy about 30% of the average home’s energy loss is through closed windows and doors? This can be true even if you have a new construction home or newer energy efficient doors and windows. That means, whether it’s summer and your AC is running or winter and your furnace is heating your home, you may be spending more than you need to.
Why Windows & Doors Lose Energy
There are many reasons that even energy-efficient windows and doors could be leading to higher heating and cooling costs. And, if you have newer quality windows or a new home, you may not actually need new windows and doors. Simply fixing what’s wrong can be enough. Here are a few things that lead to energy loss and what you can do to help increase your home’s energy efficiency without new energy efficient doors and windows.
- Check the window caulk, both inside and outside. Now is the perfect time of year to make sure that the caulk is a solid bead around the window. If not, either call a handyman to fix it or do it yourself using one of the many online tutorials.
- Evaluate the weather stripping. Both windows and doors have weather stripping. It’s easier to see on doors and if you can slip a dollar bill through your closed door, chances are that it needs replacing. If your window’s is crushed flat or missing on one window but visible on others, you need to replace it.
- Keep your windows locked. When you lock your windows they’re closed more tightly. If your locks are broken, you’ll likely need to replace the window in order to lock them. If you have newer windows, check your window warranty to see if locks are included in the coverage.
Poor Installation & Poor Fit Can Lead to Energy Loss
There are many standard size windows, however, every window opening is slightly different. If your window installer didn’t do a good job installing your windows, they will lead to energy loss. Similarly, if the window size wasn’t custom to the window opening, there will be energy loss. Unfortunately, in these situations, there’s very little you can do to fix it other than replacing the windows.
New Energy Efficient Doors
Sometimes the issue is the doors themselves. Many production homes in the Indianapolis area are built with entry doors that aren’t considered energy efficient. Production builders often purchase large quantities of the same doors and use them across multiple developments, regardless of whether they’re rated for the North Central zone of the greater Indianapolis area. If your hand feels cold on the door, it may be time to consider an energy-efficient entry door to reduce heat loss and improve comfort
New Energy Efficient Windows
There are differences in quality windows that meet ENERGY STAR requirements and the windows many builders use. If you have older windows or your home feels drafty and cold in winter and your air conditioner can’t keep up with the summer heat, it may be time to invest in energy efficient windows. Not all windows can be helped with new locks, caulk, and weather stripping.
If It’s Time for New Energy Efficient Doors or Windows, Call Blair Windows
As a trusted Indianapolis window company, we’re here to help you find the right energy efficient doors and windows for your home and budget. Call us today to schedule your free in-home consultation and estimate at (317) 356-4666 or fill out our contact form and we’ll call you.
