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How
to Analyze Windows
article and photo provided by Simonton
Whether you’ve lived in your current home for quite
a few years or you’re considering buying a different
home, it’s wise to carefully evaluate the home’s
windows. “People generally don’t realize how critical
windows are to a home’s energy performance,” says
Don Zeman, host of the nationally-syndicated Homefront radio
show.
“Older, poor quality windows are a major source of
energy loss,” Zeman notes. “Conversely, well-performing
windows can help homeowners lower their energy bills by keeping
a home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This
is especially important with elevated natural gas prices.
Anything a homeowner can do to help control energy bills will
pay off for years to come.”
What makes a window “good” or “bad”
and how can homeowners identify the difference? According
to experts at Simonton Windows®, the age, efficiency and
composition of a home’s windows should be considered.
“Older windows can lose their efficiency,” says
Bill Lazor, senior product manager with Simonton Windows.
“They can actually suck the life and energy out of a
home causing heating and cooling bills to soar. Just like
every other product in the home, windows have a lifespan.
“Typically, windows should be replaced about every
20 – 25 years. Windows made with vinyl frames and insulated
glass units create some of the most energy efficient products
in the marketplace.”
Lazor recommends consumers check for “burnt out”
areas on carpets near windows. “That’s an indication
that harmful ultraviolet rays are easily entering the home
through the glass panes,” says Lazor. “This means
the windows do not have an efficient glass package and it’s
an indicator that energy bills may be higher than necessary.
If this is the case, a home buyer/owner may need to invest
in replacement windows with Low E coatings that are designed
to filter out the sun’s harmful UV rays and reduce fading
inside the home.”
Lazor offers the following tips to help home buyers evaluate
the effectiveness of windows in a home they’re living
in or considering purchasing:
- Tip #1 – Determine how many panes of glass are in
the windows. Single-paned windows are the least energy efficient.
You can replace them with double- or triple-paned ENERGY
STAR compliant windows to enhance energy efficiency and
make a home more comfortable during all seasons.
- Tip #2 – Do the windows open and close easily?
If the windows are hard to open or close – or they
don’t stay open or won’t lock – it could
be a sign that the windows need replacing.
- Tip #3 – Have someone stand outside the window.
With a small flashlight, stand inside and “travel”
around the window’s perimeter. If the person outside
sees areas of light coming through, this is an indication
of seal failure – and probably energy loss.
- Tip #4 – Check the window frames. If you find warping,
pitting or rotting wood or aluminum frames, it’s time
to consider replacing the windows. If you go this route,
consider vinyl framed windows for your replacement package.
Vinyl is a great insulator, plus it’s easy to maintain.
- Tip #5 – Look for condensation inside the glass
on double- or triple-glazed windows. This could indicate
seal failure. If this is the case, you might need to replace
the glass or the entire window.
For more details on evaluating windows, call 1-800-SIMONTON
to request the free booklet, “What Every Homeowner
Should Know About Window Replacement.”
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