The unending burning of fossil fuels is a known culprit behind global warming. However, even with global warming, why are winters getting colder and summers scorching hot?
Equivalently, this severe weather and climate shift is causing a stir among us earth-dwellers. Not only are we vulnerable to temperature-related health issues, but we’re also paying higher energy bills. One of the most popular solutions is the installment of insulations for windows.
How does putting insulation for windows help with energy costs? Read on to learn more about insulation, how it works, its benefits, its price, and more!
How Does Insulation for Windows Work?
Three primary heat flow mechanisms exist conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction refers to the transfer of heat through materials.
Convection is how heat circulates through liquids and gases. This mechanism explains why cooler, denser air sinks and lighter, warmer air rises.
On the other hand, radiation is when radiant heat travels in a straight line. As this heat travels, it transfers its energy to all solid matter it passes through, heating them.
Insulation is the act of reducing the effectivity of any of these mechanisms. Meanwhile, the materials that don’t allow the easy transfer of heat are insulators. These insulation materials slow down heat flow which helps reduce your energy bills.
One of the most effective ways to insulate is to install insulated windows. Insulated windows contain multiple parts called panes rather than one block of material.
There must be a gap between these panes that manufacturers fill with air or dense gas. These fillers act as an insulator. It helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Types of Insulation for Windows
What type of window insulation is the best? All insulated windows have similar components. What makes one different from another is the type of filler used in the space between its panes.
Some favorite window insulations include air-filled window insulators. As the name implies, the glass panels are compactly filled with air. This is the least expensive and longer-lasting window insulation.
Spray foam is another insulation option worthy of considering. Spray insulation foam is a low-pressure, low-expanding foam. It’s designed to create a tight seal around windows.
Gas window insulations are also making a buzz among homeowners. For instance, Argon insulations are dense, increasing energy efficiency by up to 10%.
Many homeowners also seek krypton-insulated glass for their windows. However, since krypton is denser, this type of insulation tends to come at a more expensive price tag. For commercial buildings, xenon-insulated glass is highly recommended.
Meanwhile, fiberglass insulation is also widely recognized for its insulation capacity. Fiberglass is primarily made of plastic reinforced by tiny glass fibers. This gives it the extra strength to withstand the pressure from the panes it’s separating.
However, if you’re looking for a partial makeover, you can opt for a more subtle window insulation film. Window insulation is a plastic wrap film that you can easily apply to windows. Think of it as a window sticker but with heat transfer-reducing powers.
Window insulation films are easy to install and are readily available to homeowners. In addition, insulation films are some of the most affordable window insulations.
Using Window Insulations: The Good and the Bad
The most significant benefit of insulated is its energy efficiency prowess. Heat can easily escape through window glasses.
However, insulation slows down the flow of heat. As a result, it’ll take less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Air sealing your whole house can save up to 30% of energy costs. This number can increase when you pair window insulation with proper HVAC upgrades.
Aside from lower energy bills, window insulations can also act as noise reduction. Insulators can absorb sound waves which prevents them from penetrating your walls. As such, you can enjoy a more calming atmosphere at home.
Further, insulations are a significant plus factor should you ever sell your home. Not only does insulation protect your home from damaging temperature fluctuations, but it also extends its lifespan.
Environmentally speaking, insulation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing households’ energy consumption reduces fossil fuel demand.
On the downside, insulation for windows is hard to repair. You can’t replace the damaged pane but must repair all the panes as they’re a set. Moreover, if left unattended, broken seals can lead to fogging.
How Much Do Window Insulations Cost
Considering the great benefits, insulations for windows might be expensive.
Well, not necessarily. Insulated glass windows can cost between $3-$20 per square foot. The price of insulations can depend on many factors, such as the type of insulator.
The number of panes your window needs can also impact the price. Generally, double-glazed, air-filled windows will cost less than gas-filled, insulated windows.
Top-Tier Window Insulation Installation Tips to Remember
Take note that once you protect a window, you won’t be able to open them without removing the insulation you put in. As such, you want to consider the practical side before insulating.
For instance, consider leaving one window uninsulated if you’re insulating a kitchen window. While a proper HVAC system can help eliminate smells, you must still air your kitchen for hygiene.
You may also want to leave at least one uninsulated window on at least two walls of your home. This is especially true if you don’t want to re-insulate every after summer.
Finally, experience makes a huge difference. While it’s fun to DIY insulations for your windows, don’t hesitate to get professional help. With professional services, except nothing but top-grade service and a superb start to finish window replacement.
Stay Comfy At Home Regardless of the Season
With increased social media campaigns, the public focus on general well-being is picking up at great speed. Along with health consciousness, homeowners are also eyeing the smart transition to sustainability.
While no one product can ensure a healthy home, insulation for windows is proving to be a critical component in delivering healthy homes. From increased energy efficiency to noise reduction, no wonder people are digging them! Of course, you certainly must take advantage of this historic shift toward sustainability. Visit the rest of our guides today and update yourself about home insulations and many more!