Does your home have old-style windows? The ones that look real nice but are not that hot when it comes to energy efficiency? The good news is that you do not have to replace your old windows with new, less charming versions. All you have to do is make a few small changes here and there. Follow these tips to help you get the best energy performance out of windows that may be old but can still put up a fight against the elements.
Hold on to the Heat
Did you know that our homes lose up to 30 percent of their heat through the windows? With this in mind, it is sensible to make a concerted effort to ensure that our windows are well insulated. Fitting modern, double glazed windows is not always an option. To start with, they are prohibitively expensive and, secondly, some historic districts simply will not allow modern window replacements in period houses because they ruin the look of the area. So what can we do to help our windows keep out the cold?
Take a Close Look
Begin by taking a good close look at all the windows in the house. Older styles often have multiple panes of glass. Check for cracks in the glazing and replace where necessary. Remove flaking paint so that damage to the wooden frames can be assessed. Minor repairs can be effected using sandpaper, wood filler and a coat of exterior paint or varnish to keep off water. With regular maintenance, you can stave off the rot of antique wooden window frames.
Gaps to Fill
Examine the putty around glazing panels and remove and replace where necessary. Going around the exterior and interior with a caulk gun or some caulk rope, filling any cracks or holes, makes a real difference. Old-style windows with suspending ropes may need fittings replacing and the windows re-hung for a tighter, more weatherproof fit.
Do the feather test around window frames to test for drafts – when you find one, seal it shut with caulk or window frame insulating strips.
Suggested Read : Window and Door Replacement – How to Choose a Perfect Contractor
Insulation Inspiration
If double-glazing is going to break your budget, consider alternative insulation options. Storm windows, heavy drapes and DIY plastic film can all help, but they really lack style. Proud owners of older properties who wish to keep their homes warm also want solutions that do not jar with the architectural style of their dwelling. Increasingly, such people are looking at one alternative in particular – solid shutters. By fitting made-to-measure shutters on window interiors, you get an instant extra layer of protection against energy loss. Wooden shutters are adjustable, so that you can let sunshine in during the winter and keep it out in the hot months. As a stylish and streamlined ally in the fight against wasted energy, shutters are becoming the go-to solution. With the added benefits of extra security, easy cleaning and a range of colors and styles, shutters should be seriously considered as a long-term energy-saving investment that is easy on the eye and pocket.
Retaining old windows in our homes is a real labor of love, but with regular maintenance and some smart insulation choices, the war against heat loss can be won.
