How to Make Your Old Windows More Energy Efficient

Your windows are a crucial aspect of your home, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. They can keep your home more energy-efficient, let in fresh air and natural light, and enhance its aesthetic appeal.

If your windows are energy efficient, they help prevent air from escaping your home, improving temperature regulation. This means using less air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter. But if your home has older windows, you must look for ways to increase their energy efficiency. 

Here, we discuss five ways to improve the energy efficiency of your old windows.

Caulk Around Window Seams

Over time, the caulk surrounding your windows may start to deteriorate. Caulk shields your windows from pollen, insects, and the elements. If your caulk is severely worn down, air can pass through your home, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature.

So, replacing caulk in windows can effectively insulate them, protecting your home from insects and allergens. Plus, the new caulk also has a big visual impact! Most people match the caulk color to the paint color of their trim, or numerous options are available.

Utilize Solar Window Film

Have you seen the sun reflectors that can be installed on your windshield to block the sun and maintain a cool car? They’re similar to solar window film, but they are less shiny. You can apply the film directly to your glass panes, and it prevents approximately 35% of the heat from the sun. 

One great thing about solar film is that it is a versatile solution that can be used without being permanently fixed. If you live in an area where temperatures fluctuate with the season, you can apply the film in the spring and remove it in the fall. Blocking solar heat and UV rays helps maintain a consistent temperature in your home, lowering your energy bill.

Install Draft Stoppers for Energy-Efficient Windows

Draft stoppers, also called draft snakes, are installed at the bottom of windows to prevent the entry of cold air and the escape of warm air. They are typically made of fabric and filled with insulating materials. They are particularly beneficial for older windows where the bottom gap is a major source of drafts.

Implementing these solutions can achieve energy efficient windows without the need for expensive replacements. Each method can be used individually or in combination for enhanced results. Improving your windows’ insulation can increase your home’s comfort and help reduce energy costs and carbon impact.

Install Storm Windows 

Storm windows are insert windows that can be easily installed, similar to insert windows. The difference is that storm windows are installed over your existing windows. You can install them on the exterior and interior of your windows. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, storm windows offer comparable energy-efficient properties to new replacement windows at a cost-effective rate of about ⅓. They improve the insulation of your existing windows, increase protection against harmful UV and infrared radiation, and help soundproof your home. 

Furthermore, installing storm windows on your ancient windows is like putting on a fluffy coat over a light jacket. These windows also provide further protection from outside elements and improve insulation.

Use Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping prevents cold air from entering by filling in gaps in the air. The two most popular types are adhesive-backed foam and tubular gaskets. Measure, cut, and peel the material to secure the window to the sash. 

Make sure the weatherstripping is still in place so your windows can open and close. Make any necessary adjustments. Metal weatherstripping can be a more visually appealing option for older metal windows.