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How to Properly Insulate Your Windows for More Energy Efficiency

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Insulating your windows helps keep your home at a comfortable temperature yearly. According to studies, you lose at least 10% of your home’s heat through your windows. Let’s not get into how much that value skyrockets when you’ve got air leakages.

Are you facing either of these problems? Then our findings will definitely help you out. We have done extensive research and even contacted many Vancouver windows and doors experts to break down these 4 tips regarding window insulation for you to consider. Interested? Keep reading!

The Use of Insulation Films

If you do not have energy- efficient windows, then you should definitely consider the installation of insulation films on your current units. Although they aren’t as effective as the costly double pane, triple pane, and low-E windows, window films offer a good level of comfort within your living space all year long. Some even ward off about 50 percent of outdoor heat filtering through your windows.

But while window insulation films are affordable and easy-to-install insulation treatments for your windows, choosing a suitable insulation film to install largely depends on your location. But for Canada, a convection control film is your best choice since it is all about a cool climate here.

  • For maximum effectiveness with your insulation film, you need to ensure that it is properly installed. This is because a shoddy installation will serve you no purpose.
  • If you’re using a DIY installation kit, ensure that the window has been properly cleaned before applying. Also, ensure that there are no gaps between the film and window when installing. If you think DIY is not your cup of team, then make sure to hire Vancouver window installers that are reliable and certified.
  • While it can be challenging to choose a proper quality window film, ensure it has an NFRC label on it before going for something specific.

Use of Curtains for Insulation

Using energy-efficient curtains is also a great way to save heat during cold periods. Such curtains are also called blackout curtains. They are great for providing much-needed privacy and insulation.

These curtains consist of four layers. Each is made from different materials to serve various functions. The outermost layer consists of wool, silk, and other decorative fabrics designed to suit your aesthetic. The next layer is the insulating layer made of foam, flannel, and other thermal resistant materials to reduce heat loss. The third layer helps reflect light and heat, protecting your furniture from UV rays.

Finally, the fourth layer acts as a vapour barrier, protecting against moisture.

Using these curtains will help you save electricity bills by significantly reducing your heat loss and solar heat gain.

Try the Weather Sealing Strips

A great way to prevent cold drafts from entering your home and increasing your energy bills is to use weather stripping. They are affordable and great for fun home DIY projects.

Drafts affect your indoor air quality, your HVAC systems have to do more work to maintain your required internal temperature and humidity, and water seeps in, causing moulds to form. All these could affect your health and are also bad news for the structural integrity of your home.

Here are two popular types of weather stripping you could install by yourself, namely:

  • Tension Seal; and
  • Door Sweeps

Tension seal strips are easier to install than door sweeps. You’ll only have to cut them to a preferred length using a pair of scissors, peel them, and install them. Door sweeps, however, are made of aluminum or plastic. Simply cut them to the desired length and install using screws.

Insert Spray Foam

If installing weather strips around your windows isn’t much to your liking, you can use spray foam to insulate your home against cold air drafts. Weatherstripping is a temporary solution that may last about two years. However, spray foam insulation is permanent.

You’ll either have to remove the entire window or just its frame to install it. It is often used for windows having cavities around them. It seals these gaps shut, leaving no room for the exchange of air inside and outside your rooms. Since it has a low expansion rate, you can count on its lasting capabilities through the cold and hot seasons.

The Bottom Line

Getting energy-efficient windows or properly insulating your current units is a great home renovation idea. It helps to cut down on energy bills, bring comfort to your space and even boost the market price of your property. Try out any of these tips to make sure your windows are properly insulated, bringing you warmth and peace of mind.