A Helpful Window Treatment Guide From Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA

For most homeowners, energy costs take a good chunk out of the budget every month. With so many other demands on your wallet, finding areas to cut back on energy expenditures is a good way to save yourself a little money. In addition to swapping out old, dysfunctional windows with energy-efficient replacement windows from Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, there are little things you can do to conserve energy and lower your monthly utility bills, including using window treatments on your windows.

Save Energy With Window Coverings

According to information from the U.S. Department of Energy regarding energy-efficient window coverings, 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-paned windows in the summer months enters as heat, while almost 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows during colder weather. When used appropriately, these energy-saving window treatment options will complement your replacement windows and reduce energy loss:

• Draperies. Depending on the fabric type and color, drapes have the capacity to significantly reduce heat gain and loss. Conventional draperies can reduce heat loss by up to 10% in the winter, while medium-colored drapes with insulated white backings can reduce heat gain by 30% in warmer weather.
• Shades. While shades may be the simplest form of window covering, they also have the highest capacity for energy efficiency. Shades are fairly easy to install and are available in a variety of patterns and styles that make it easy to find the perfect match for your windows and interior décor. They even work well in conjunction with other window treatments, such as draperies.
• Blinds. Unlike shades, blinds have adjustable slats that allow for ventilation and enable you to control the amount of light that enters a room. They don’t control heat loss as well as shades, but according to Consumer Reports, some highly reflective blinds can reduce heat gain by approximately 45% when tightly closed, and can also be adjusted to reflect and block direct sunlight.
• Hinged Shutters. Shutters do more than just help reduce heat gain and loss in your home. They also offer weather protection and added security and can be installed on either the interior or exterior of a property to add a traditional design element.

Learn More About Energy-Efficient Windows & Patio Doors

Our revolutionary Fibrex® and High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass combinations for both our windows and replacement patio doors are more durable and energy-efficient compared to other products on the market. Installed by our team of certified master installers, Renewal by Andersen® windows are the most beneficial ones you’ll ever encounter. So give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call at (610) 849-2800, and we’ll tell you all about it!