3 Ways to Make Your Windows Greener

Whether you’re moving into a new home, or looking to spruce up your old one, energy conservation is a big deal. For homeowners new and old, there’s many ways to cut back on energy costs, but one of the easiest ways of doing so, is by making your windows greener. There are a lot of different things you can do, but if you’re unsure of where to start, try some of these strategies and you’ll be saving money in no time.

Window Film

Window film is a great solution for making windows more energy-efficient. It’s easy to install, fairly inexpensive and reduces energy expenses almost immediately. There are other advantages as well, primarily how it will affect your energy bills. If you’re trying to slim down the family budget, window film, upon installation, can help you get the results that you’re looking for.

• Window film staves off 75% of the sun’s heat, therefore reducing the amount of money spent on heating and cooling, and allowing for better temperature control.
• Since window film greatly reduces harmful UV radiation from seeping into your home, you can prevent furniture from fading, as well as glare from reflecting off of other surfaces.
• Replacing old windows is expensive and time consuming. Rather than spending the money on new windows, installing window film can give your windows new life, not to mention help hold them in place in case a collision occurs.

Plug Leaks

No matter what size your windows may be, air still has a way of getting inside your home and causing drafts and leaks. This can result in irregular temperatures and the wasteful usage of central air and heating. Before you rack up another energy bill, take the time to review the windows in your home and check for leaks. It may seem like a chore, but is worth the money you’ll save.

• Open your window and then close it on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out without it tearing, then it’s apparent your windows aren’t shutting tight enough.
• Shining a flashlight through the cracks in your windows at night, as well as holding lit incense up to your window, can also help detect leaks.
• Leaks and cracks can be sealed by caulking the edges of your windows. Be careful not to caulk them shut though, as a little goes a long way.

Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes are one of the more fashionable ways to make your windows greener. They allow you to not only control lighting and heat, but also create a comforting environment in your home. If you have an eye for interior design, curtains and drapes prove to be solutions to many problems. They can be chic and the envy of house guests, and can also aid in temperature and emission control.

• Using thicker drapes that reach to the floor keeps warm air out in the summer and cold air out in the winter. They can also be purchased secondhand and at other discount shops, making them a great alternative to more expensive linens.
• Hanging floor length curtains in front of doors is another way to regulate temperature. During the day, you can hang them to the side for a dramatic look, and at night, can release them, thus preventing cool air from getting in.
• These subtle additions and renovations are both an effective way to cut back on energy costs, increase property value and revitalize the interior of your home.

Nicholas Haywood is a green enthusiast. When he isn’t greening up his home, he writes articles about window film for blogs that focus on home renovations and green living.