Let The Sun Shine In -- Keep The Cold Air Out 

Most people love to have lots of windows in their homes. Windows make a home bright and cheery by letting the sun shine in, and they give you the feeling of openness or "space."  But when winter hits, do you notice a draft of cold air breaking in from your windows?  Here are some winter window hints for keeping the warm air in and the cold air out.

The first step for reducing cold air drafts and heat loss is to inspect your home from both the inside and outside. Be sure to check the areas where window frames meet the structure or siding of the house. Plug any cracks or openings with caulking or weatherstripping. Caulking should be used to seal all small cracks on non-moving surfaces, inside and out; and weatherstripping is used on windows (and doors) and other movable parts of the home.Storm windows can also keep the heat you're paying for inside. If purchasing storm windows isn't within your budget, consider making your own with clear plastic film and a light wooden frame. Inexpensive kits can also be purchased at most hardware and home improvement stores. And have you considered the glass in the windows?  Ordinary window glass transmits ultraviolet heat rays from the sun. While this sounds great for the winter, remember the summer effects this can have on your air conditioning bill. You can help control this effect in your favor by applying reflective film or by installing low-emissivity (low-E) glass. Low-E glass has an almost invisible metallic coating, either suspended between the two panes of glass on a film, or applied directly to one of the inner panes of glass. Basically, the coating reflects heat while letting light in. But the same coating will also help keep your wintertime heat indoors. Be aware that windows made of low-E glass may cost 10 to 30 percent more than conventional glass double-pane windows.

And even on cold days, the sun can take part of the load off the furnace and help warm the inside of the house. After you've sealed any leaks where cold air can get in, open the drapes and let the sun shine in.

This article has been provided by the MBA, a non-profit and non-partisan association which represents the building industry in the metropolitan Milwaukee area. The MBA develops and offers education for consumers as well as members. By establishing business ethics and industry standards, the MBA has earned a reputation as a trusted resource. Consumers enjoy our promotions for housing and housing products, while members take part in our professional and social activities throughout the year.

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