Windows and doors can be a major source of heat loss in our homes and buildings.
Review of Materials and Key Concepts:
Windows and Doors Tips
Find and Plug Leaks
Just wet your fingertips and run them around the door or window frame to feel a draft or hold up a tissue and see if it waves. Seal leaks between moving parts (between door and its frame) with weather-stripping. Fill leaks between non-moving parts (between window frame and wall) with caulking.
Adjust or replace weather stripping, door sweeps, and thresholds as necessary. Make sure that they haven’t warped, cracked, or broken and that they’re still blocking the space between the window or door and the frame.
Plastic Film
Plastic film on the inside of the windows is one of the oldest energy saving techniques because it’s one that works the best. If you read the instructions carefully and install the film properly they can almost be as effective as another pane of glass. If possible, use a hair-dryer in the application process, the film will resist wrinkling and not impact your view.
Window Shades
Install tight-fitting, insulating window shade on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.
Storm Windows
Install exterior or interior storm windows. Storm windows can reduce your heat loss through the windows by 25-50 per cent. Storm windows should have weather stripping at all moveable joints; be made of strong, durable materials and have interlocking or overlapping joints. Low-e storm windows save even more energy.
Repair and weatherize your current storm windows, if necessary.
Clean Windows
Keep windows on the south side of your house clean to maximize solar gain.
Window and Door Technology
Install Energy Star® rated for Zone D windows and doors. They reflect heat back into a room during winter months and reduce drafts.