The dictionary defines global warming as “a gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth’s atmosphere, generally attributed to the greenhouse effect, caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons, and other pollutants.” No matter how interested you are in the science behind global warming. One thing remains clear: the impact from these elevated temperatures creates a threat to our world. Those will be from increased droughts and famine to violent storms and other severe weather events (davidsuzuki.org).
However, with increased awareness, people across the world have taken notice and are taking action. Some donate their time and money to organizations that are working to reverse the effects of global warming. While others are taking consistent action to reduce their carbon footprint, as citizens and consumers.
As a homeowner, you too can make your home more “green,” by doing things like installing proper insulation, replacing an old, worn-out roof, reducing your energy consumption in the home. And replacing old appliances with newer, more energy-efficient ones.
There is another part of your house that can also maximize your home’s energy efficiency, and that is through your windows.
Home Window Replacement: Why It Matters
Although home windows replacement is expensive home improvement. There are many reasons to consider making the investment – especially if you’re concerned about global warming:
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Window replacement helps pump the breaks on global warming
Replacing old, drafty, energy-inefficient windows can go a long way in making your home run more efficiently. With old, inefficient, and improperly installed windows, your home’s heating and cooling system must work overtime to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.
In other words, if cold air is creeping in through your windows in the winter, your heater must work extra hard to keep the house toasty and warm for you and your family. And in the summer, the cool air from your A/C unit can easily escape through the windows as well, placing more demand on the air conditioning system. Unfortunately, this increased demand can ultimately result in the release of more greenhouse gas emissions, which is a killer to the environment.
On the other hand, if you were to consider home window replacement, you could effectively keep heat and cool air where you want it most: inside your home, keeping your family comfortable, regardless of the temperatures outside!
According to Climate Change Connection, approximately 13% of a home’s air leakage occurs through the windows. So, it stands to reason that any measures that can reduce air leakage – like home window replacement – are important measures to consider.
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Save money in the long run
ENERGY-STAR claims that using their energy-efficient products, can actually reduce your annual energy costs by 12% each year (climagechangeconnection.com). So, although you will need to invest money in a home window replacement. The fact that you’ll save money to heat and cool your home will, over the long run, end up saving you money.
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Prevent bigger problems in the future that may threaten more than your house
If your windows are old, worn out, damaged, or poorly installed, you may also have bigger problems looming. Specifically, if it’s easy for water and moisture from rain or snowstorm to enter your home through the windows. You may find that your walls (paint, wallpaper, moldings, etc.) are getting damaged. The moisture can damage your walls, flooring, carpeting, and furniture.
Perhaps more concerning is that unaddressed moisture can lead to mold and mildew, creating a terrible smell and, more seriously, respiratory issues and allergies for unsuspecting family members. Not only are you now looking at home window replacement costs, along with the added price of replacing damaged flooring, walls, furniture, etc. But you’re also looking at sacrificing something that is priceless: your health.
Home Windows Replacement: Be More Green
Yes, replacing the windows will help. But if you want to truly maximize the environmentally-friendly benefits that replacing your windows can offer. Then investigate the following components when deciding upon the window style and manufacturer:
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Low-E windows
Low-emissivity windows have a metallic oxide coating which reduces the harmful effects of the sun and helps trap the heat in your rooms during the winter months as well (homeadvisor.com).
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The U-factor
Heat loss is measured by a unit known as a “U” factor. The lower the U-factor, the greater a window’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating properties (efficientwindows.org). The recommended U-factor varies by the region’s climate. Visit energystar.gov to learn more about which U factor is best, based on where you live.
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Glazes
Purchasing windows that are glazed can help prevent heat from escaping, offer more insulating properties. And still allow sunlight to enter the room (climatechangeconnection.org).
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Double- and triple-pane glass
Both types of glass provide more insulating properties, making them a “greener” choice than single-pane glass window styles. However, triple pane is more expensive than double-pane glass. So you may want to determine if the benefits of the added costs are truly necessary based on where you live.
Home Windows Replacement Baltimore
If you realize it’s time for a home window replacement, then give Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company a call at (410) 918-0563. Our professional staff and contractors are knowledgeable, experienced. They are prepared to provide you with the best home window replacement and installation in the Baltimore, Maryland area.
Our contractors have experience replacing all styles and types of windows, from single- and double-hung, to arched windows, bays, transoms, skylights, sliders, and more.
Visit our website at https://midatlanticremodelingco.com/, to view our portfolio. Learn more about Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company, or to contact us online for a quote. We are ready to answer any and all questions you have about home window replacement. Because we know that being better educated will help you make the best decision for your house and budget.
