As one part of your home's systems that dictate comfort (and energy costs), windows play an important role. However, they might not be as important as other home systems, such as insulation.
In many cases, homeowners aren't as educated about insulation as they are windows. Sure, poor windows will let hot outside air into your home. But windows make up a small portion of the home's exterior shell. Think about how much heat is moving through the total volume of the walls if they don't have enough insulation to stop the heat transfer.
But it's not just about comfort, either.
Energy Star reports that replacing the single-pane windows in your home could lead to a $126 to $465 a year in savings (depending on how many windows you replace and where you live). Replacing double-pane windows results in lower savings, between $22 and $111 a year.
However, Energy Star also reports that replacing windows (and doors) is one of the least effective cost-saving projects in which homeowners can invest.
Want to guess what is the most effective? Insulating (and air sealing) the home.
There's even another project that the organization reports as more effective than updating windows and doors. It's addressing the leaks and insulation problems in ductwork.
So if you're looking for the most cost-effective projects to do around the house that will provide a high return on investment, dramatically improve your comfort, and at the same time, drive energy bills down, turn to insulation and air sealing (the walls, attic, basement and/or crawlspace) first.
Next, address the leaks and lack of insulation in the ductwork. Then, tackle the leaks around doors, windows and walls by air sealing wall penetrations and outlets, weatherstripping windows and doors, or installing plastic over single-pane windows or replacing windows.
Better yet, combine these projects to yield dramatic results. For more information about blown-in insulation for your attic and injection foam insulation for your walls, contact USA Insulation today!
