Every Canadian knows that Winter brings the cold and the elements. Even with the most innovative technology available, you can’t always predict what kind of weather you’ll have to endure in the Great White North, so, it’s better to protect your home and prepare for the cold.
Investing in new windows this winter will not only keep you warm, but it will also help you save on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Nowadays, all types of businesses are looking into ways to becoming more green, and home ownership is no exception. Besides appliances, windows have become the next energy-efficient must-have.
Energy Efficiency
Some of the benefits of ENERGY STAR windows include protection from UV rays, certifications that cover the duration of the product and putting some money back into your savings. The most immediate results that you will see as homeowners are the amount of money saved during the winter months compared to previous years. In Ontario, the weather can be intense, and whether your GTA appliances need upgrading or your Kingston windows and doors need to be replaced, ENERGY STAR is the best option.
Let’s be honest here, drafty windows can cause energy bills to soar, and it can happen without you even noticing it. You inevitably keep the thermostat at a high temperature just so that you and your family can feel comfortable. Meanwhile, the heat is escaping from cracked and warped windows. As soon as you invest in energy-efficient windows, you put an end to the drafts. It is estimated that by replacing single-pane windows, homeowners can save more than $500 per year.
You can also put an end to furniture discoloration from simply installing ENERGY STAR windows. Not all homeowners realize the damage that can occur to their belongings from consistent UV exposure. However, over time curtains, furniture, and even carpeting can fade, leaving behind a lackluster sight. ENERGY STAR windows come with a protective coating, which acts similar to sunscreen and is known to reduce discoloration by about 75%.
In the past, such energy-efficiency benefits would have been limited to one or two specific window styles. But now, there are plenty of options to choose from, so no need to feel limited. Some even mix and match styles throughout the home.
Top Window Styles
Of the most popular window designs, double-hung and fixed windows remain at the top of the list. Because double-hung windows have two operating sashes, so it allows for ventilation on top and the bottom. This is a great feature not just for ventilation but also for cleaning purposes.
Fixed windows are another great option to consider when wanting to protect the home from the harsh cold. This style of window can come in just about any size or shape. Picture windows, which are merely large fixed windows, were originally used for commercial spaces. Since then, companies have learned how to install them in residential homes without compromising the building’s structural integrity.
Typically, picture windows are seen in spacious living rooms and kitchens to allow for more natural light to come in. Only when bedrooms and bathrooms are on higher levels do you tend to see them being used for intimate spaces. Yet, it is possible to do and still be discreet.
Keeping your home protected from the elements just got easier this winter season. Follow our advice, and you’ll be on your way to improving the look and functionality of your home.
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