Window Savvy - Blog

3 Ways Window Treatments Can Save You Money

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 11:06:42 GMT

Owning a home can be expensive. You have a mortgage to pay, and even with a fantastic interest rate, you'll be on the hook for a while. Therefore, if you're looking for ways to save money, you should consider getting high-quality window treatments. Here's how this investment can save you money in the long run.

1. You Can Save on Heating

It might be cold outside, but you get hot under the collar when you look at your latest energy bill. Why is it so high? This is especially difficult to ask yourself when the heating system is struggling to warm your home to the point that you can think about not wearing a light jacket. Surprisingly, it could be because of your windows! Your home can lose a lot of heating energy if your windows are not in good shape — 30%, in fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

2. You Can Improve the Value of Your Home

While potential buyers do place a premium on upgrades like a new roof or a modern-looking kitchen, they would also like to know that their windows are in good shape. These are the things that are going to keep the elements like rain and snow out. Also, little holes in the sealant can make your home feel drafty. You don't want to hear the wind outside and feel it coming inside. By investing in a professional window treatment, you can expect a good return on your investment (ROI). In fact, Credit Karma reports that you can expect about a 69% ROI!

3. You Can Add the Best Curtains or Blinds to Your Windows

You're not going to hurt anything if you don't have a window treatment , but the sub-zero air of winter can pound its way through even the tightest window sealants. That's when you want to invest in something else, like thermal-lined curtains, for example. Your home will feel toasty, and you won't have to make your heater work overtime. This retained heat will also lower your energy bill.

Installing high-quality window treatments offers the benefit of saving you money in the long run as a homeowner. If you're looking for professionals to get your windows up to par, contact our experienced and professional team here at Window Savvy.

What Are Window Treatments and Why Should I Get Them?

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 13:53:51 GMT

You may hear the term window treatments tossed around by interior designers, home décor blogs, and others and wonder, “Exactly what are window treatments?” Put simply, they are anything that covers your windows such as drapes, blinds, shades, etc. Many people make the mistake of thinking that window treatments are simply for aesthetic purposes. While installing window treatments is a great way to add style to any room, they play a much bigger role. Here's what these treatments have to offer.

Control Natural Light

One of the primary functions of dressing up your windows is to control the amount of natural light that comes into a space. This can help with things like the glare on your television and also prevent UV light from entering the room and fading your furniture. When you need a little sunshine, you're able to open them right back up. Some window treatments give you more control than others, so keep this in mind when choosing the right treatment for you.

Energy Savings

How you dress your windows can determine the level of energy efficiency you gain. According to HomeTalk, you can save 15% on energy costs by air sealing your home, which is great, but you can also save about 10% on energy costs by simply choosing the right window treatment.

We talked about using window treatments to control natural light. You can also control radiant heat as well with the right treatments. Insulated drapes will help to keep your home's temperature stable, which means your air conditioning doesn't have to work as hard.

Privacy

Treatments for your windows can help you to control privacy. Keeping prying eyes out of your bedroom or living space is easy with stylish window treatment options. Especially if you live in an area with a lot of pedestrian traffic, window treatments are a great way to keep strangers from peeking in.

The right window treatment is a visual design element for any room, but it's also highly functional. Choosing the right treatments can be a game changer for your home. If you're struggling to choose a window treatment that is right for your space and your lifestyle, professional support is available. Contact Window Savvy for assistance or to learn more about the power of window treatments and how they can upgrade your home.

4 Signs Your Windows Will Need Replacing Soon

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 13:18:23 GMT

It's easy to believe that windows last forever in a house since they are solid structures and can be used for many years. However, you might have to replace them eventually, especially in areas with harsh weather. You might have to consider window treatments as well, as they can benefit your house and save you money.

For example, homeowners can save around 15% in heating and cooling expenses (11% of energy costs) just by adding air sealing and insulation to their windows, according to Energy Star, which you might not be able to do with older windows. Therefore, it's important to look out for other signs that your windows need replacing. Here are four signs you can keep an eye out for.

1. They Don't Open or Close Properly

If you're having trouble operating your window, it might be time to replace it. There's absolutely no reason why you should be struggling to open or close a window. It should be simple and easy every single time. Additionally, newer models are more efficient, have better sliding options, and are easier to clean.

2. They Let Air in and Out

Unfortunately, some windows get damaged over time. They might let air in and out of your home even when they're closed, which will affect your house's internal temperature, leading to higher energy bills. In this case, one of the best options is to install new windows. Some people try to avoid that by adding things around the panels and trying to keep air away, but that makes your home look ugly, not to mention being a hassle.

3. They Are Letting in Noise

When you're at home, you don't want to hear everything going on outside. Windows are not soundproof, but they shouldn't be letting in all the noise from your neighbors or the streets. While there might be other issues contributing to this, replacing your windows with better models can help decrease all the noise pollution getting into your home. You don't want to be completely cut off from the outside world, but it's important to be able to relax at home without hearing kids yelling or dogs barking at full volume.

4. They Are Outdated

Some people want to remodel their homes and want newer and better-looking windows just for the sake of it. Don't shy away from that, thinking it's not enough of a sign to replace your windows or add window treatments! If you want to replace them, do it, especially since it can increase the value of your homes.

With these signs, you'll be able to determine if your windows need updating. Keep in mind that getting better windows is always a solid investment. Contact our team at Window Savvy today to get started sprucing up your home with new windows.

A Beginner's Guide to Different Types of Windows

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 13:50:31 GMT

According to the United States Department of Energy, energy-efficient windows are important in homes to maintain comfort and energy efficiency. Both heat loss and heat gain through inefficient windows account for approximately 30% of a home's heating loss.

Choosing a window replacement and window treatment can be overwhelming. There are so many different kinds of windows and each has specific functions, features, and characteristics. Not only is it the aesthetic that you must consider but you also need to consider its function and how much light it lets in.

Different Window Types

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are classic open both the upper and lower sashes. Some double-hung windows tilt inwards allowing you to clean the exterior surface with ease.

Sliding Windows

Similar to sliding doors these have several panels that move horizontally along a series of tracks. This allows for great ventilation because they can be larger and let a great deal of light can come through.

Accent Windows

Accent windows are a type of window that is fun and give a beautiful look to any building. They're available in octagon, round, semicircle, and even can contain stained glass. Sometimes they are large picture windows that are fixed but allow a lot of light. Accent windows don't open to the outside but do add to the beauty and light capacity in rooms.

Energy Efficiency

One of the most important features to consider when choosing a window is looking at energy efficiency. Gone are the days of single-pane windows. Many windows feature two layers of glass or what is commonly called double pane glass. For more efficient window there is also triple-pane windows. Harbored between the pane is air or even argon gas which creates an insulating property. When properly constructed there should be no condensation between the panes of glass.

An important factor is the U-value of the window. This indicates the rate at which heat flows through the window and the frame. When considering having new windows installed this is important not only for the value of your house but for your comfort. To get new windows installed today, give us a call!