Summer will be here before you know it, and this means you should start considering prepping your windows. With the summer comes a lot of heat that you would rather keep outside the home. Below are some tips to help you keep your windows in shape and the inside of your home cool and free from pests.
Clean the Windows
Cleaning the inside and outside of your windows does more than just make them look good. It can also help to improve their energy efficiency.
Low-E reflective coatings are often used with new windows to provide better energy efficiency. However, if the exterior of the window is dirty, it tends to trap the heat inside the home rather than reflect it.
This will make your house feel more uncomfortable during the summer. Many people end up turning on the AC to get the temperature down. This increases the cooling bills and negates the benefit of energy-efficient windows.
Check Your Window Screens
Many homeowners rely on open windows and fans to provide ventilation and cooling during the summer. However, you will need to have screens on your windows, so pests don’t get inside. Check the screens on all your windows before summer arrives and replace any that are damaged.
Keep in mind that using ventilation and cross breezes can work well during the day when you are at home, it’s dangerous if no one is there. Open windows with just a screen are an invitation to thieves.
Consider Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are a type of energy-efficient window covering. They can be opened and closed easily and could help to block up to 60% of the sun’s heat energy. These are easy to install in the summer and remove during the winter. You could also add blackout curtains to some of the rooms in your home.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows
Those who want to take a further step may want to consider energy-efficient windows. These windows help to keep out a substantial amount of the sun’s heat in the summer but can keep warm air inside during the winter. When installed, they reduce your monthly energy bill.
Other Ways to Keep Cool
In addition to prepping your windows, you can do other things to help keep cool in the summer. Only run appliances at night. Use fans rather than the air conditioner. Cook outside whenever possible, so heat doesn’t become trapped in the house. Contact Rusco Windows and Doors to learn more!