Schedule a Window Check-Up during October's National Energy Awareness Month

“Virtually every building component in a home needs to be replaced at some point, and windows are no exception,” says Gary Pember of Simonton Windows. “We’d like to think that our roof, siding, and windows will last forever, but they won’t.

“Marking your calendar each October to routinely check your windows and patio doors helps ensure they are performing the way they were designed to perform. These checks also help determine when it’s time to consider a window replacement project that can offer you long-term energy savings — especially if you live in an older home.”

Pember recommends performing the following do-it-yourself check-up to gain an initial impression of how well your current windows and patio doors are functioning:

1. Examine the inside of your windows and patio doors for hot and cold “drafty” spots (or drafty areas). This indicates air infiltration, which can lead to reduced energy efficiency.

2. Check every window and door to make sure there is adequate weatherstripping and caulking around the units. This helps eliminate air infiltration and ensure a weather-tight, secure seal.

3. Look for “burnt out” or faded areas on your furnishings and carpeting. This could indicate that harmful, damaging UV rays are entering your home through your windows or doors. You may want to consider replacement with more energy-efficient units containing low E coatings on the glass.

4. If your windows no longer open or close easily or if they need to be propped open, it could mean that key components within the units are damaged or need adjustment. It could also mean that the unit needs to be replaced entirely.

5. Check the “fit” of your current windows or patio doors by having someone stand outside the units at night. With a small flashlight, stand inside and “travel” around the edge of the units. If the person outside sees light coming through the edges, this indicates a poor installation and is resulting in energy loss.

If your evaluation turns up one or more problem areas, it may be time to consider replacing your windows or doors. Be sure to contact an experienced window installation professional, such as a Simonton ProNetwork member.

“Window replacements are both a short- and long-term investment in your home,” says Pember. “You’ll immediately help reduce your energy bills. And having newer, more energy-efficient windows is a great selling point when it comes time to put a house on the market.”

Vinyl is an excellent insulator and many people choose low-maintenance vinyl frames with an Argon or Krypton gas fill and low E glass. These harmless gasses are denser than air and serve as an excellent thermal barrier. These components all work together to reduce thermal conductivity, or the transfer of heat and cold through a window. Visit http://www.simonton.com/Information/EnergyEfficiency/ for more details on energy-efficient glass options.

“Do your homework and research the windows you’re buying and the company that manufactures them,” advises Pember. “Not all windows, nor window companies, are equal. Price is important, but it’s not the critical factor. The key is investing wisely and making sure your replacement windows meet ENERGY STAR® guidelines for your geographic area.”

Window Check-Up

U.S. Department of Energy experts have put together a three-step checklist of information for homeowners considering a window replacement project. Start by considering the design of your home and the climate in relationship to the energy performance of the windows you select. Next, select windows that meet your energy performance requirements. Finally, take the steps necessary to ensure the proper installation of windows to maximize their energy efficiency. In-depth details on these three steps can be found here.

At the ENERGY STAR website, homeowners can also find a comprehensive "What You Can Do” checklist that includes a free five-minute home energy assessment. Visit here for an online view of potential cost savings when upgrading to ENERGY STAR windows for the home.

For more energy-saving ideas visit www.energystar.gov or www.efficientwindows.org. For free booklets on energy tips and selecting replacement windows, call 1-800-SIMONTON.