Ask Gitta: Will new windows make my home more efficient?

Question: Will changing the windows in my home make it more “energy efficient?”

Answers:

Modern windows not only beautify the appearance of a home, they bring in the sunlight during the winter, while preventing the warmth created from escaping outdoors. Windows also insulate a home from heat during the summer and keep cooled air from escaping.

When deciding whether to repair or replace your existing windows, begin by considering their age and condition. Poorly designed, constructed and placed windows can cost money through heat loss.

If your home is more than 30 years old and still has the original windows, chances are your windows are not keeping you as warm or as cool as well-placed and installed newer models. But, there are measure you can take to increase their efficiency:

• tighten the seal around the windows with weatherstripping
• every window not made of insulated glass should have a storm window. If your home has storm windows, ensure they are in good condition and properly installed before the cold season begins.
• if you home doesn’t have storm windows, or they are in poor condition, you can get as goodr better protection using heavy-gauge clear plastic sheeting.

Replacing windows with more energy efficient ones doesn’t have to be done all at once. Begin by replacing the ones causing the most heat loss, such as the large picture windows in your living or dining rooms. Replacing windows in stages over a period of years costs less up front and still increases energy efficiency.

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Gitta Levi, Associate Broker, Century 21 Heritage Group
‘Specializing in the needs of Seniors’