Vinyl Windows - A Replacement for Glass?

Replace Windows to Improve Energy Efficiency in the Home by Christine OKelly

Putting in new vinyl windows in place of older inefficient ones and other energy saving ideas are becoming increasingly important. The prices of everything are rising sharply, making it harder and harder for many people to make ends meet. The environment can no longer absorb the abuse constant energy waste is placing on its resources. Improving efficiency can cut energy bills in half or more. If this is something that interests you, replace windows and follow these additional steps to see extra cash in your wallet and a better surrounding environment.

Replace Windows

If your windows no longer seal properly and let outdoor air into your home, your home uses massive amounts of energy that it really doesn't need. Depending on the extent and areas your windows leak, you can repair them or replace windows that are causing the issue.

Exchanging an old window for a new vinyl window can make a huge difference. Look for those that leak not just around the outside of the frame, but also those that do not close properly. They can also leak where the glass meets the frame, so check carefully.

If the outside frame of a wood or vinyl window shows leakage, you can fix it easily by adding a little insulation, or by sealing it off, depending on the location and cause. In these instances, you don't need to replace windows and can save the added cost. If you are having difficulty finding the draft, use the smoke from a candle to identify the areas in bad condition.

Light Switches And Plug-Ins On Outside Walls

Sometimes, the loss of indoor air isn't a vinyl window at all. Instead, light switches, plug-ins, and other inserts in the walls cause the problem. You can check these by pulling off the front plate and carefully checking for a light draft.

Once you find the culprit, you need to stop the leak carefully. Filling the space with insulation becomes a serious fire hazard. You can have an electrician loosen and insulate the space. You can insulate it in a more cost-effective manner by purchasing insulated covers to replace the existing ones, or purchasing the insulation foams that are sticky on one side to prevent the outdoor air from entering your home.

Plumbing

If you check the pipes entering and exiting your home, you will often find an air leak. Places to look in particular include the pipes under sinks, laundry plumbing, and sewer pipes. If there is a cap around the plumbing, you'll want to move that away from the wall. This will reveal any gap around the outside of the pipe. You can spray the hole with foam insulation if it is a small gap. For larger gaps, fill the area with steel wool and seal it with duct tape. You can also wrap the pipe with a strip of foam.

If you replace windows, seal off electrical boxes, and fill in holes around plumbing, you will find your home is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Even replacing an old window with a vinyl window can make a significant difference. As a result, your home will require less energy, easing the strain on the planet.

Christine O'Kelly is an author for the vinyl window experts at Custom Order Online, a provider of replacement renovation materials perfect for any home. They give customers the opportunity to replace windows with the highest quality products at an affordable price.

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