Summer is in full-swing, and it’s already brought with it record-breaking heat. When the temperatures have been as scorching as they are, the first thought for many of us is usually not “have I optimized my windows for this heat?” But of course, that was our very first thought over here at Lake Washington Windows.
Not many people know this, but windows make a dramatic difference in keeping heat out. So we’ve put together a few things you can do to your windows this summer to keep your home cool.
Before we get started, we need to address a common misconception: keeping your windows open during a hot summer day won’t cool down a house, but only let more hot air in. Keep windows closed during the day, and open at night when the sun is down and the air is cool.
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Weatherstripping
Before doing anything with the windows themselves, we need to make sure there’s no leakage happening around the frame. If your windows don’t have weatherstripping, now is a good time to do it. Weatherstripping seals air leaks, meaning outside’s hot air can’t come in and inside’s cool air can’t go out. For more information, check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s brief, informative article on weatherstripping.
Blinds, Drapes, and Shades
We know, that sunshine spilling in through the window is a beautiful thing, but it’s the enemy when you want to keep your home cool. The best way to prevent the sun from heating up your home is to physically prevent it from getting in. Here are the three best ways we know how to do just that:
Blinds: Chances are your home already has blinds. A standard pair of white blinds will do just fine, and can reduce heat gain by as much as 45% if they remain lowered and completely closed on a sunny window.
Drapes: Some heavy, insulated drapes covering a sunlit window can reduce heat gains by 33%. Hang them at least 3-4” away from the window pane so that you don’t create too much heat between the drapes and insulated window panes. Too much heat may cause the seal around the insulated units to fail.
Shades: Considered by the U.S. Department of Energy to be one of the simplest and most effective window treatments for saving energy, shades are a must. Lower shades on sunlit windows and keep them raised on unlit ones, and while keeping both lowered at night. Dual shades work best, with a light colored side and a dark colored side. Keep the light colored side facing outside during the summer, and then reverse for the winter months.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Get a free home window inspection, talk with one of our design consultants to get product recommendations, and learn about special offers and financing.
Buy New Energy-Efficient Windows
If none of these tips are helping, it may be time to invest in some new energy-efficient windows. A good set of windows will reduce the need for a lot of these tips. In fact, for many homeowners, installing new windows saves a lot of money in the long run.
About Lake Washington Windows & Doors
Lake Washington Windows & Doors is a licensed general contractor specializing in replacement window products. Our service area extends throughout the Greater Seattle area, including Bellevue, Issaquah, Kent, Renton, Woodinville and more. The professional team at Lake Washington Windows has more than 100 combined years of window, door and siding experience, so you can rest assured that we can recommend the best solution for your home and budget.
