In these tight economic times, it might be more important than ever to reduce your energy costs by draught proofing your sash windows. Typically, more than a third of a home’s heat is lost through leaks and drafts that are preventable. Sash windows are among the biggest offenders. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when dealing with this problem.
Sash windows often cause a lion’s share of a home’s heat loss, in part because they are often older than other windows and thus less technologically advanced in design. There are several strategies you can try to abate or eliminate drafts and heat loss around sash windows, and they each have their own pluses and minuses.
A quick way to reduce drafts around windows is to hang blinds, curtains, shades, or other window coverings over the offending windows. Window coverings help reduce heat loss, but they are not as effective as other more substantial approaches. Meanwhile, drapes and curtains need to be cleaned, repaired, and eventually replaced, all of which adds costs that offset whatever energy cost savings they may affect.
Another possible solution is to simply replace the windows entirely. You can get energy efficient, double-glazed windows installed in place of your old drafty sash windows. Total replacement is not cheap, and you may have to give up the design integrity of your window units unless you are prepared to add even more to the cost by having the windows custom made.
Another alternative, particularly for old windows, is the application of a new, second glaze. This offers the chance to upgrade the window panes without sacrificing the original design of the sashes and frames. Accompany re-glazing with the removal and complete overhaul of the windows including upgraded sealant and repaired or replaced parts and fittings, and you will be sure to have the best protection against heat loss you can manage.
The process of upgrading your sash windows may be costly, but in the long run the savings on energy costs will be more than worth it. Furthermore, resealing the windows will help abate outside noise. Also, upgrading the windows in this way can prolong the life of your windows generally because of the replacement and repair of worn parts and fixtures.
There are many ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, and you should explore them all. But perhaps the most effective way to prevent heat loss is to tackle the drafts and leaks around your window. The up-front cost might seem like a lot, but in the end, you will find that the savings will far outpace the costs when you reduce your energy costs by draught proofing your sash windows.
Find the best sash window insulation company to use by searching online. There you can find secondary glazing London and other areas to consider using. Go online today and learn more.
