Summer Window Weatherizing Tips

August is here and the hot weather will be here for the foreseeable future. Did you know that weatherizing your windows could help keep you cooler this month? It can also help increase energy efficiency, which can save money on your monthly utility bill. Here are some helpful window weatherization tips.

#1: Check your windows regularly.
Homeowners have various home maintenance tasks to keep up with. Checking your windows is one of them. Look for any chips or cracks and ensure that there are no issues with sealing. If you spot anything, make sure they are fixed right away. This will help prevent damage to the outside structure of your home and it could save you money on a costly window repair or replacement later down the road.

#2: Caulk windows.
Windows that leak air in and out can cost you big money. Windows are one of the primary places that air is lost, so caulk well around the seams.

#3: Utilize shades and fans.
Window coverings will help block hot incoming sun and work with your AC system to keep your home cool and comfortable this August. Keep blinds or curtains closed at the hottest and sunniest parts of the day so the temperatures inside can stay balanced.

#4: Replace old windows.
If the windows in your home are decades old, chances are, they are inefficient. We offer free quotes on replacing your outdated windows! New windows are EnergyStar® rated and insulated. Many windows use glass made of high efficiency low-E coatings which can reduce the amount of heat that is transmitted through your windows. And it will also help protect you from ultraviolet rays.

Ready to get your window replacement project started? We proudly carry and install Simonton and Milgard products and can help you find the right windows for your budget. We serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington.  We are currently offering a variety of specials, so visit our specials page to see what our deals are available, then contact us today to get your free consultation scheduled.

What is the Energy Star Rating?

Energy Star is a government-backed symbol used to note energy efficiency. Energy Star products help protect the environment through energy conservation and at the same time, help save money. The purpose of the Energy Star label was to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants in the environment that are caused by inefficient energy use. In addition, the label helps people know which energy efficient products are available, allowing them to purchase the product knowing that it will save them money without sacrificing performance or quality.

In order to have a product meet the energy efficiency requirements, the Environmental Protection Agency has created some specifications based on several important standards. The product must be able to offer significant energy savings nationwide and the energy consumption and performance must be able to be measured and verified through tests. If the Energy Star product costs more than another product that is less efficient, the consumer should be able to recover the investment cost through decreased utility bills. There are several rankings on the label, including those from A to G. A is the most energy efficient and G is the least efficient. Energy Star scores are also used, numbered 1 to 100. A score of 75 or above means the product is a top performer.

Many appliances nowadays are certified as Energy Star certified products, but so are many of the windows and doors that we sell at Lifetime Windows and Doors. We proudly carry many different window styles and brands that will work with your home’s specific style.  We also have hundreds of different energy efficient door choices and can work on customizing them with different glass or window options. We carry doors from many different brands, including Therma Tru, Buffelen, Simonton, Masonite, Milgard, Codel Entry Systems, and Simpson!

We love serving the Pacific Northwest and are committed to energy conservation. We work with customers in Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Whether you’re looking for new siding, new doors, or new windows to help make your home more beautiful while getting it more energy efficient at the same time, our experienced team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help. Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are and contact us today for more information on our Energy Star products and we will answer your questions and help get an appointment set up!