Going Green? Check Out These Energy Efficient Window Tips

If you are like most Las Vegas residents, you probably have standard windows installed throughout your house. This summer, we are sure you felt the heat beating through and heating up your home. Now that the weather in Las Vegas is starting to cool, now may be the best time to install energy efficient windows.

Why energy efficient windows?

There are many reasons why a homeowner would want to consider installing energy efficient windows. The main reason is that these types of windows help lower your heating and cooling costs because they are designed to provide an extra barrier between the inside of your home and the weather outside.

While this may seem expensive initially, it is not when you factor in your long term expenses. This is especially true if your home has windows that are very old. As windows age, the components age as well and fall apart. Trying to fix each individual part in an effort to save money may end up costing you more in the long run.

Energy Efficient Designs

Make sure your windows are made with the following features to be truly energy efficient.

• Good energy performance rating for your climate
• Low emissivity window glazing
• Double panes of glass

Choose a Style

If you believe that investing in energy efficient windows is the right choice, you have to choose the type of window you would like. Just like traditional windows, energy efficient windows come in many different types. You can choose windows from any of the following types:

• Awning – Hinges at the top and open outward. Prevents air, heating and cooling from escaping because it seals closer to airtight than sliding windows.
• Casement – Hinges at the side and opens out or in. Prevents air, heating and cooling from escaping because it seals closer to airtight than sliding windows.
• Fixed – Airtight if installed the right way. Not a good idea if you want ventilation in that area. Great for maintaining heating and cooling.
• Hopper – Hinges at the bottom and open inward
• Single or double hung – Either one or both parts of the window slide vertically. Offers a good seal but not as good as awning, casement or hopper window types.
• Single or double sliding – Either one or both sides of the window slide horizontally. Offers a good seal but not as good as awning, casement or hopper window types.

Improve Current Windows

If the install of brand new windows seems costly and unattainable right now, there are ways that you can improve the energy efficiency of the windows you already have. Here are a few tips that can reduce air leaks and heating or cooling losses:

• Add storm windows
• Add caulking for cracks, gaps and joints of structures that don’t move
• Add weatherstripping to cracks and gaps that are a part of moving windows and doors
• Add window coverings

Once you have your new windows installed, you need to make sure you have the regular window cleaning Las Vegas homeowners trust. Contact the experts at J & J Window Wash to keep your new windows in good condition year round. For more information about this Las Vegas window cleaning company, contact 702.274.8128.

October 2, 2014