To ensure proper insulation around new windows, there are a couple of different ways you can gauge how insulated they are. Once you ensure that they’re insulated properly, you won’t have to worry about unexpected issues with your windows and home overall.
Our team of Naperville window replacement specialists at Opal Enterprises explains the methods you can use to check the insulation around new windows and how our team can help. Read on to get all the information you need to ensure proper insulation around your windows.
Why Is Window Insulation Important?
Ensuring proper insulation around new windows protects your home from extreme weather and saves you money on maintenance costs. Our Naperville window replacement professionals have gathered some of the top reasons it’s important to have well-insulated windows:
Energy Savings
Window insulation significantly reduces the load on your HVAC system. When heat escapes through uninsulated windows, your heating system works overtime during winter to keep your home warm. Likewise, your AC struggles more to overcome solar heat gain in summer. Insulation blocks these transfers, lowering utility costs.
Well-insulated homes typically see winter heating bills cut because you don’t have to turn the heat up high. In summer, you won’t have to blast the AC to stay cool because when your windows are well-insulated, the outside heat won’t get into your home. Cutting energy waste, such as electricity use through proper window insulation, means lower bills and energy consumption.
Moisture Control
When warm, humid indoor air contacts a cold glass pane, condensation forms. This leads to issues like fogging, frosting, or rot. Insulation maintains more consistent surface temperatures to avoid condensation points. Ridge vents, caulk, or foam seals also help.
Insulated drafty windows receive another barrier against air and moisture exchange between interior and exterior environments. Home interiors stay drier with less warping of woodwork near windows. Damage risks are reduced over the long haul.
Excess moisture trapped within wall cavities and window frames is another common problem. Insulation helps bridge the temperature difference between the two sides of walls, slowing penetration of damp air. It also blocks wind-driven rain from entering walls during storms.
This is important for preventing mold growth that can develop with high humidity left unchecked. Molds pose health risks like respiratory issues when spores spread indoors. Proper insulation installation creates a dryer interior environment.
Temperature Control
Insulation helps keep indoor temperatures stable regardless of fluctuations outside. On cold nights, insulated windows prevent interior air from leaking out and being replaced by frigid drafts. Living spaces retain comfortable warmth much better. During hot days, insulation blocks solar heat and prevents interior air from circulating out as new hot air seeps in.
Strategically placed curtains or blinds provide an additional layer of insulation for solar heat control. With less temperature variation inside, homeowners feel much cozier year-round.
Signs Your Windows May Need Better Insulation
To ensure proper insulation around new windows there are some signs you can look out for. If your windows are showing any of these signs, you might need one of our Naperville professionals to insulate your windows:
- Condensation or fogging between the window panes: This indicates the thermal seal has broken down.
- Drafts: To test for drafty windows, run your hand around the edge of the window frame. Insulation may have settled, leaving gaps.
- Uncomfortable temperature fluctuations between rooms: Windows without proper insulation allow outside temps to affect indoor areas.
- Peeling paint, rotting wood, or moisture damage near frames: Insufficient caulking or insulation is allowing water to penetrate.
- Noticeably higher utility bills for heating and cooling: Inefficient windows contribute to increased energy usage and costs.
- Loud exterior sounds like traffic that carries clearly inside: Additional soundproofing may be needed.
- Caulk around the frames has cracked: This may be a sign that it’s time for a window replacement or additional insulation.
Tips for Inspecting Existing Window Insulation
Thoroughly inspecting your home’s window insulation is an important part of evaluating its current effectiveness. Start by removing any interior or exterior trim and molding to get a closer look at what’s behind. This allows you to check the depth and completeness of sealing around the frame. Look for gaps in caulking, cracks, or spaces where insulation foam may be missing.
Use a bright flashlight to examine hard-to-see areas, like corners and sill plates, carefully. Your hands can also feel for drafts or unevenness in seals. Gently run them along all edges of the frame and meet rails between sashes. Listen and feel for any air movement.
Inspect glass surfaces closely for signs of condensation or moisture problems like peeling paint, rot, or warped wood that could point to insulation deficiencies. Evaluate window operation as well. Check your heating and cooling bills for higher winter or summer costs as another potential indicator of heat loss.
Installing Insulation Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
Many homeowners consider taking on window insulation projects themselves in an effort to save money. However, window insulation requires a high level of skill and expertise to perform correctly.
Improper installation can result in drafts and inadequate insulation areas. At Opal Enterprises, our teams of specially trained and certified technicians have extensive experience, ensuring every job is done perfectly from start to finish.
Why You Should Work With Our Team for Your Insulation
Ensuring proper insulation on your new windows on your own also means forfeiting the peace of mind and warranty protection that comes with hiring true professionals. We stand fully behind our work with a lifetime labor warranty, giving you guaranteed, long-lasting results.
Another advantage is our ability to provide quick, upfront estimates for projected timelines and costs. You’ll know exactly what to expect from start to finish, unlike other companies that may prolong the process.
More than installation alone, we are dedicated to an overall remarkable remodeling experience. Our attention to detail and courteous staff ensure efficiency while minimizing disruptions. We take satisfaction in leaving homeowners completely satisfied with their new insulation.
Learn More About Ensuring Proper Installation Around New Windows
At Opal Enterprises, our team of Naperville window replacement technicians can help you ensure proper insulation around your windows, whether it be inspecting your windows or having our team insulate them.
Contact us to learn more about ensuring proper insulation around your new windows.
