Save on Heating Costs with Replacement Windows

Replacement windows in San Jose, CA will give your home a much-needed facelift and will increase its curb appeal substantially. But as you watch your energy bills throughout the year, and you watch them rise when the weather changes outside during the summer and winter, you may wonder if replacement windows will help lower those bills and save you on heating and cooling costs.

The reality is that most older windows are not very energy efficient. As windows age, cracks, gaps, and damage can occur that create draftiness around them and let cold air into your home and hot air outside your home. This can make it very difficult to keep your home warm and cozy without raising the thermostat or your heating system running almost non-stop, resulting in increased energy costs.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows alone are responsible for approximately 25% of energy loss annually in American homes. If your home is more than 20 years old, then your windows have hit the edge of their 15 to 20-year lifespan. Additionally, the older your current windows are, the less likely they have the energy efficiency of newer window technology.

With new Energy Star double pane replacement windows, you may be able to save up to 20% percent in total yearly energy costs. That’s a compelling reason to consider having replacement windows installed. Double pane replacement windows are constructed with two panes of glass separated by a layer that is filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton. This substantially increases the insulating ability of the replacement windows.

There are additional energy-saving technologies that are available with new replacement windows that can save you even more money on your annual energy bills. One of the these is low-emissivity (Low-E) coating, which significantly reduces how much ultraviolet (UV) light is allowed in through the windows. Not only does this make your home more energy efficient, but it also protects your carpets, furniture, and wood floors from fading over time and it can protect you and your family from painful sunburns.

In addition to double panes, your new replacement windows will have a well-insulated framework and fusions welds that add additional insulation to the windows. This ensures that there are no gaps where cold air can enter your home or where hot air can escape to the outside.

The frame insulation on your new replacement windows is designed to withstand water absorption, ensuring that they will not break down, nor will you have to worry about mold and mildew forming on the frame or window and spreading throughout your home.

To further enhance the insulating factor of your new replacement windows, add window covers that offer additional insulation.

One popular choice is cellular (also known as honeycomb) shades. The design of these shades enables them to actually trap any cold air that might slip in and not allow it to penetrate the inner part of the shade.

Another popular choice is to layer window coverings by starting with a shade or a sheer curtain to allow light in a room. On top of this you can add heavy drapes or curtains that have an insulated backing. As temperatures drop outside, you can close the drapes or curtains and keep the interior of your home warm and cozy.

To learn more about replacement windows in San Jose, CA, you can speak with our knowledgeable staff at California Custom Creations. You can contact us at (408) 316-6293 to make an appointment for a free in-home consultation.