Energy Efficient Windows: Exterior Remodeling
In this day and age of high energy prices, homeowners should consider conducting remodeling projects that will improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Whenever you make a substantial change to your home through a remodeling project, planning for future benefits is important. If the trend continues, it is evident that energy prices will continue to rise. Addressing this issue during your next remodeling project will result in substantial dividends going forward.
One great way to improve the look of your home while enhancing its energy efficiency is to install energy efficient windows. Replacing current windows doubles as both an interior and exterior remodeling project. First off, you can beautify the interior of your home through the design of the window system. Secondly, being conscious of natural lighting will vastly improve the feel of the living space. Lastly, installing new windows during your remodeling project improves the value of your property.
By enhancing both the indoor living spaces and outdoor look of your home, you can increase your families enjoyment of your property immensely. Likewise, by improving the overall look of your home, you add substantial value to your home during the remodeling project. Best of all, energy efficient windows will save you money on your monthly utility bills well into the future.
Energy Efficient Window Remodeling Basics
During your remodeling project, you can improve the energy efficiency of your home by installing replacement windows. New windows can improve this aspect of your home in two main ways. First, the placement and design of your windows can play a role in passive solar design. Second, your windows can prevent energy loss via reducing air infiltration and by increasing insulation, and energy efficient windows can reduce radiant heat absorption through advanced reflective coatings.
Remodeling to Maximize Passive Solar Design
Depending on the area in which you live and on the layout of your property, you can install your replacement windows in a fashion to take advantage of solar energy. If you are constructing a new home or if you are creating a new footprint for a sky light or new window, you should definitely consider placement options that will improve the energy efficiency of your home.
When it comes to passive solar design, there are two primary concerns. First, you should consider the placement of your windows in order to maximize the benefits of light infiltration. Second, you should consider the size and number of windows that you want to install during the remodeling project.
In warmer climates, the energy that comes in to your home from sunlight should be minimized to promote energy efficiency. As such, if you are adding a new window or skylight during a remodeling project, you should consider making it a north facing window. North facing windows receive relatively constant cool, non-direct natural lighting. If you are remodeling in a colder climate, the opposite rule applies.
When it comes to the number and size of your energy efficient windows, you should consult with an expert exterior remodeler. They have the knowledge and ability to help you achieve all of your natural lighting aesthetic goals while maximizing the benefits of your passive solar design.
Energy Efficient Window Design
Depending on the climate in which you live, different energy efficient window designs will be preferential. EnergyStar provides climate based performance ratings that you can consult during your remodeling project. Exterior remodeling contractors can also provide you with the information you need in order to purchase the window systems that will work best for your home.
Energy efficient windows prevent energy loss by limiting air infiltration, increasing insulation, and reflecting solar radiation. In order to prevent air infiltration, you should hire a professional remodeling contractor to conduct the installation. Exact and expert installation services guarantee that your new windows create the air seal necessary for energy efficiency.
Insulation and reflectivity are a direct result of window design. More insulative replacement windows have two glazing layers and inert gas barriers. More reflective windows have a special coating that will prevent radiant heat from entering you home. In order to chose the best energy efficient windows, you should hire an exterior remodeling contractor to help you navigate this critical features.
With this information and professional help, you are guaranteed to make the most of your window replacement remodeling project. You will substantially improve the look of both the inside and outside of your home. Your remodeling efforts will save you substantial money well into the future, and you will add value to your family property.