When was the last time you thought about your windows? Let’s be honest, it’s probably been a while. You may not pay attention to the windows in your home until energy bills spike or you feel a draft.
But as part of what the industry calls your “home envelope,” your windows play a big role in your home’s comfort and efficiency. Choosing the right windows today can help you save tomorrow.
More than Just Glass
If your home is a shield against the elements, your windows do the heavy lifting. You might still have single-pane windows if your home was built before the 2000s. They are your basic defense against the hot sun, cold winters and drafts. In this type of window, a thin sliver of glass helps protect you from the outside elements.
Fast forward to today, and there is much more innovation in windows. Modern windows can help you maximize energy efficiency while keeping you comfortable. For example, dual-pane windows are more than just glass. Between the two panes is a small gap filled with a gas like argon or krypton. This simple innovation helps to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, they can block the heat while letting in daylight.
Want the most energy-efficient windows for your home? Look for the ENERGY STAR® certification. Experts trust ENERGY STAR-rated windows for amazing performance with long-term savings. Our Eco Actions Partner Andersen® Windows & Doors is trusted to deliver superior performance and cost-saving benefits to customers. They also commit to sustainability by using responsible materials and production practices to reduce waste and lessen its environmental impact.
When Should You Replace Them?
Knowing the right time to replace your windows can be confusing. The general recommendation is every 20–25 years, but there are signs when it’s time to upgrade:
- Do your rooms feel drafty?
- Are your windows single-pane?
- Do you have difficulty keeping a consistent temperature?
- Are your energy bills rising?
- Do they look worn, or do the sills look degraded?
- Can your windows open safely and close tightly?
- Do you notice condensation between glass panes?
Making the Sustainable Choice
Selecting the right windows for your home means thinking about your climate and your sustainability goals. The perfect windows for a home in Montana winters will be different from the perfect windows in South Beach. The ENERGY STAR website can help you find windows that are right for your climate and fit within your budget. Upgrading to the most innovative and efficient windows can help lower your energy bills by up to 13% nationwide.
When you’re looking for a balance between performance and sustainability, windows like the Andersen 100 Series is the best of both worlds. They’re crafted using Fibrex® Composite Material, an innovative mix of reclaimed wood fiber and recycled materials twice as strong as vinyl, for long-lasting performance. That means less maintenance than traditional wood with the look you’ll love.
Taking the Next Step
Upgrading your windows can be a significant investment, but the long-term benefits extend beyond energy savings. It’ll also make your home more comfortable, requiring less maintenance and enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
Visit Home Depot online or in-store to learn about the latest in windows. One of our professionals will answer any questions and walk you through installation services. We’ll make sure you get the perfect windows for the place you call home.
