At Progressive Insulation & Windows, we work with many consumers who want to improve their home’s energy efficiency but they’re not convinced that older windows really have that much of an affect. The truth is that older windows – even if they look fine – may have a much larger effect on your utility bills than you think. In fact, there are many other ways they can negatively impact your home.
If you have wooden windows then you need to keep an eye out for rot
If you live in an older home that has original wood windows, or even a newer home that has wood window frames, then you should carefully consider if they need to be replaced. It may be true that wood windows look rustic and offer curb appeal, but it’s also true that they can present some serious maintenance issues.
When wood is exposed to moisture like sleet, snow, or rain, it contracts. Later, it expands and holds moisture. Every time it holds moisture, it’s at risk for molding and development wood rot. Both of these issues can affect the way it looks and can decrease its insulation properties. If you have older wooden windows and you really want to keep them, then adding vinyl cladding may be a good choice.
Vinyl windows are a great choice with a few exceptions
Many homeowners choose vinyl windows – and for good reason. Made with PVC and typically utilized additional UV stabilizers that prevent it from breaking down over time, they are extremely durable. The frames are also hollow, which means you can add insulation to make them more energy efficient. However, if you have older vinyl windows, those empty areas may not have insulation – which means they’re less likely to be energy efficient.
If you have older vinyl windows, make sure that your weather stripping is in good shape. As they age and that stripping deteriorates, energy efficiency can decrease. If you’ve noticed that your window isn’t as easy to close and lock as it used to be, then it could be because the window has old hardware that’s degraded as time has gone on. Finally, vinyl, like wood, can contract and expand over time, which may lead to joint failures.
Older aluminum windows are poor insulators
The main reasons that aluminum makes a great window material is because it’s strong and its lightweight. However, these same reasons mean that it conducts heat – which leads to poor insulation.
If you have an older window that’s made from aluminum, it’s likely the insulation strip that was along the frame and sash when it was installed has disintegrated. Over time, the weather stripping may also have eroded. If your aluminum window lacks insulation, then condensation can gather along the bottom of it and mold can grow.
Newer windows have upgraded energy efficiency properties and better insulation. As a result, not only are you going to see a difference immediately but you’ll see windows that remain energy efficient for years to come. To learn more about your options, contact Progressive Insulation & Windows at (800) 500-6200.
