In case your budget won't allow for new windows, don't despair. There are plenty of things you can do to update windows so they look better and are more energy efficient. Most of these improvements you can even do your self if you don't mind getting your hands dirty.
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Painting window sills and frames
When the major issue with your windows is cosmetic, a coat of paint may upgrade windows significantly. Each material requires different types of paint, though, so you might have to add a special primer to prepare the windows.
As a word of caution, not every windows can be painted. If you currently have PVC or vinyl windows, you're tired of whatever color you have right now. You can still paint the frames if they may wood or fiberglass, or you can paint the wall surrounding the windows to produce some sort of attractive frame.
New caulk or weather stripping
Poor energy performance prospects the argument for window replacement, according to the U. S. Department of Energy. The good thing is that you can make your existing windows a lot more energy-efficient with caulking and weather stripping. Each can help stop air leaks around windows, keeping the air conditioning in during the summer time and the cold air out during the winter. Always begin by checking all around the windowpane and looking for any cracks or gaps between the windows and the siding or sills. If there's old caulking there, you'll need to remove it before you apply a new coating.
While caulking is great for fixed windows and frame areas, weather stripping is perfect for portable joints, such as sliding windows or storm windows. Because you have many types of weather strip protection available - V-strip, felt and foam tape are just three of the most well-known options - you should do your research before buying anything. Some types of weather stripping are best for windowpane sashes, whereas others are better for sliding or double-hung windows.
New surprise window frames
Replacing your windows might be your ultimate goal, but if that's not in the spending budget right now, you can still go for a partial replacement. For example , you can get new storm windowpane frames to replace old worn-out ones. Depending on what type of windows you have - P.V.C. is a lot easier to replace than aluminum - you might be able to replace just the outside framework or certain parts.
Solar window film
Solar window film is the home equal of tinting your car windows, except that you use a non-adhesive vinyl instead of chemical substances to achieve the effect. The film blocks UV rays and sunlight heat from engaging in your home, which protects furniture and carpeting but also keeps your house cooler. Mirror-like films are reflective and block sunlight almost completely, but they change the appear of your glass. They can also make the inside of your home darker. Not all window movies are tinted, so if you're worried about the exterior view, choose a film that's totally transparent.
Although most window films are meant to cool down your home, you can also find low-emissivity windowpane film (also known as "low-E window film") that does exactly the opposite. Based on TLC, you can use these types of films for heat retention, which reduces heat reduction by up to 50 percent.
Window Sun Shades
You can use many products to control the amount of lighting and heat that comes into your home. Shutters, blinds and drapes are the apparent choices, and there are also window films that can double as sun screens if that is what you're looking for.
If your goal is energy efficiency, adding shutters or an exterior awning can prevent direct sunshine from hitting your windows and spilling within your home, causing the temperature to rise.
You can also employ drapes and blinds to change seen your windows. Thick, dark drapes can make your home look more austere whilst also preventing heat from escaping through the windows. Light, sheer curtains, however, are perfect if you want some privacy but also want the sun to shine via for natural lighting and additional heat.
Always remember that a trained professional can be an outstanding asset if you need help with a window upgrade, so don't be afraid to hire a specialist if you're having trouble applying the caulking or to install things like awnings.
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