Energy Audit Tips For Improving Windows And Doors To Stop Air Leaks

Posted on: 24 February 2017

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If you are looking for ways to make your home more efficient and cut energy loss, an energy audit is something that needs to be done. An energy audit is the inspection of your home to find out where problems are. The windows are an area where you will be able to stop air leaks and other problems that cost you money. Here are some tips to help you find the problems with windows and fix them for better energy efficiency:

1. Stopping Drafts Because Of Thin Glass with New Window Film

Drafts get into your home from many different areas, which is not just due to insulation or air leaks. Sometimes, the problem may be that the old, thin glass does not stop cold from getting in. Repairing around the windows helps, but you will also want to improve the glass. Modern window films will help to stop drafts and improve the older inefficient glass. New window film is a good option if your windows are in good shape and you really do not want to have them replaced.

2. Improving Insulation Around Window Frames and Repairing Weather Stripping

Insulation around windows is sometimes too little, or there may not be any insulation at all. If you put your hand next to the window trim on a cold and windy day, and you feel a current of air, this means that improvements are needed. You should remove the trim and add insulation to stop the draft. Make sure that the insulation is well packed, and that air does not come through the cracks around the window. In addition, check weather stripping and replace it when it is worn or damaged.

3. Caulking and Painting to Prevent Damage and Stop Energy Loss

Caulking around your windows is another improvement that you may want to consider when doing repairs. In older windows, this is the putty that holds the window panes in place. Make sure that any caulking is in good shape. You may want to replace caulking every few years whenever you do painting.

4. Repairing and Improving Garage Doors to Stop Drafts from Getting In

Another area where improvements may be needed to reduce drafts is in the garage. Garage doors also need to have weather stripping and seals to keep cold air out. In addition, you may want to consider improvements like insulated garage door panels. Even though this is an area of your home that may not have HVAC, keeping the air drafts out will help to reduce drafts that come from the garage area and save you energy.

These are some tips that can help you find some of the problems that cause energy loss around windows. Contact a garage door repair service and talk with them about helping with improvements and repairs to your garage to reduce energy loss in this area of your home.