One of the best ways to save money on your heating bill is by sealing up cracks in windows. That’s why winterizing them before the cold season starts will help you survive those frigid days and nights without turning up your thermostat.
In the below post, we’ll review best practices on how to insulate your windows for winter. We’ll also evaluate whether insulating your windows is worth the cost.
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Table of Contents
5 Ways to Winterize Your Windows
As the temperature outside starts to drop, you may notice that you have a tough time keeping your home warm. Often, this is because of poorly insulated windows.
In fact, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.
While windows can be a big source of heat loss in your home, there are multiple ways to winterize them. If you’re looking for the most cost-effective ways to winterize your windows without replacing them, consider the following tips.
Air Seal and Caulk
Air leaks are caused by air passing through cracks and gaps around your windows.
These can be as small as a hairline crack in the window frame or something much larger like an open door, but they all have one thing in common: cool drafts that make you shiver on those cold days throughout winter months. If you feel these uncomfortable breezes at any point of time during the year then it’s worth having them checked out to ensure no heat is being lost where it should stay warm.
Inspecting the exterior of your windows for cracks and gaps is a good place to start. Make sure you look over all window frames, as well as caulking that may be deteriorating or rotting wood. These signs can lead to big problems in both functionality and safety. Check if there are any missing pieces from the glass itself (which will not only hinder light coming into your home but also make it easier for intruders).
When it comes to caulking, the best advice is often given in the worst order. First, make sure you clean and dry the area of any debris before replacing your old caulk with new one. Caulk will not stick if there are dust or dirt particles on top that could attract moisture which causes mold growth – another major concern for those looking out for their health as well as preserving property values.
Check out our detailed post to find the best caulk for air sealing windows, doors, and other parts of your home.
Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is a type of sealing material that can be used to seal doors and windows. It comes in three different types: felt, foam, or metal/vinyl strips. The most common weather stripping material is open-cell foam. When trying to decide which one will work best for you think about what your needs are as well as any pros or cons associated with each option based on their thickness (felt), flexibility (foam), and durability (metal).
In terms of the best foam weather stripping products, we often recommend MAGZO Foam Tape Weatherstrip. This foam weather stripping tape can be used as insulation, shock absorption and sound absorbing materials. It is easy to handle, manageable, and can be cut and conformed to a variety of shapes and sizes, making it a good foam strip for windows, doors, or any place you need to prevent unwanted heat transfer.
Another way to help insulate your windows is by adding some insulating window treatments.
To do this, you can use curtains made of insulating material such as wool or silk. If you prefer to keep your windows clear and open, check out insulating blinds that are similar in concept but different in application. They’re also sold with a variety of insulating materials like aluminum composite, which is very lightweight and easy to transport should you need to relocate for various reasons.
Foam Insulation Kits
If you want a permanent solution to insulate your windows, then getting some foam insulation kits may be what you need. The beauty of these products is how well they are designed – from the ease of installation right down to their efficient design.
When installing foam insulation kits make sure you follow the instructions on the box. Even if you are somewhat confident in your abilities to install this insulating foam product, read up on any tips or warnings it may have. The insides they contain are compressed and easy to break free but once released all that force can come at a price.
Foam insulation kits come in varying sizes – typically a 2×4 foot section of starter kit insulates 10 square feet of space. Take note that these insulating kits do not include everything needed for installation; you will also need an adhesive like Super 77.
When setting up your insulating kit, make sure any surfaces you’re working with are clean before getting started.
Window Film
Window films are a clear, insulating barrier that are applied to each side of the window. They help insulate the home by slowing down the rate of heat loss through windows.
Window film insulates and improves a building’s thermal efficiency. The insulating window film shields the room from outdoor weather conditions such as rain or cold winds.
In terms of cost, window films are typically more expensive than insulating materials such as insulating curtains or blinds. With that being said, they can be effective insulators and they don’t block the view from outdoor to inside which insulating curtains or blinds would.
Our favorite window film is made by 3M. The 3M Indoor 1-Window Insulation Kit is designed for insulating windows located between the inside and outside of your home. This product is quick and easy to install and can help homeowners save on energy bills.
Insulating your windows is relatively cheap. Most blinds and window treatments cost between $75-150 for insulating window treatments. Meanwhile insulating kits cost around $25 per 2×4 ft. insulator – which if you are insulating all of your windows that means spending anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars depending on the size and size of your home.
The costs can add up but it is often worth the money because it’s an easy solution (compared to replacing your windows). Plus, because installation is simple, most people choose to insulate their windows regardless of cost. It beats living in a super cold or hot home year after year without insulating them.
In terms of ROI and cost savings from insulating windows, there are a number of variables that impact cost savings. For instance, where you live, how often you use your heating and cooling systems, your utility costs, the type of windows, and the age of your windows all play a role in savings. This makes it relatively challenging to answer if insulating your windows is entirely worth it. Ultimately, the best way to make a decision is to ask yourself if you’re willing to sacrifice comfort. If the answer is no, then insulate your windows.
Should I just replace my windows?
Air sealing and adding insulation materials is a cost effective way to squeeze some extra life out of your windows. But, at some point, it may be easier to bite the bullet and just replace your windows altogether.
Leaking around the window frames. Air leaks can happen when windows are installed or even if they age. Sometimes insulating your windows with insulating kits isn’t enough to stop sealing issues from popping up.
Condensation and ice buildup on your windows during times of cooler weather or heavy rainfall.
Replacing old, drafty windows is a necessity for insulating your home effectively – especially if you live in colder climates. However, this solution isn’t cheap. The average cost of replacing one window is anywhere between $300-$500 depending on where you get them from and what kind of material you want (vinyl, wood, aluminum). Frequently, you can insulate all of the windows in your home for the same price of one replacement window.
Summary
In the end, insulating your windows is a cheap way to improve your energy efficiency at home. It’s an easy project that can be done in as little as an hour by anyone with basic DIY skills and little money. Anything from insulating kits to insulating curtains and blinds will help insulate your windows for winter effectively.
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How can you enhance your home’s appearance, boost its curb appeal, and increase its energy efficiency? You can achieve all of this by replacing old windows with new ones. However, before you go shopping for windows, it’s important to know what you’re looking for.
This begins with understanding the various components, thereby ensuring that the manufacturers and installers you choose will provide the kind of windows (and appearance) you want and desire. In the following guide, we will review the parts of a window, so you can make an informed buying decision.
What are the Parts of a Window Called?
Balance
The balance is the mechanical device used to counterbalance the sash’s weight during both opening and closing – be it a single-hung window or a double one.
Frame
The window frame supports the whole system and is made up of the sill, jamb and head.
Glass
Inside the window frame is a piece of glass to keep the elements out and the cool/warm air in.
Head
This part of the window is located at the top of the frame and is horizontal.
Jambs
The vertical part of the window create the window frame’s sides.
Jambliner
These are the strips added to the window sides to ensure a snug fit for the sash.
Lift
This involves a handle, which lifts the lower sash.
Rails
A double-hung window has three rails. The upper and lower ones are situated on the horizontal part of the sash. In the middle is the check rail. It’s where the upper piece of the lower sash links to the bottom piece of the upper sash.
Sash
The sash is what holds the window in place even while it’s moved.
Sash Lock
This locking apparatus clicks with the sash lock strike to eliminate any rattling.
Sill
Often called the stool, it’s the primary horizontal part that makes up the bottom part of the frame.
Weep Hole
These are located on the window sill and are individual openings that ensure condensation and water escapes.
Other Parts of a Double Hung Window
Casing
This is the window’s ornate frame or molding that closes up the space between the wall and jamb/frame.
Exterior Aluminum Cladding
A window’s outer part is generally encased by extruded aluminum and has a factory finish to protect the window from the elements.
Fixed Panel
This part of the window doesn’t move and is more of a sidelight or accent to it.
Grilles
This is more of an ornate piece of the window, giving the appearance of several glass panes due to the visual division of window panels.
Hinged Glass Panel
A glass panel will open inward, letting you quickly access the grilles, shades and blinds found between the panes.
Lock Handle
This is the apparatus found on the window jamb.
Mullion
This is an integral piece that links at least two windows together.
Operator
This crank-operated device will open and close a window.
Screen
This is a woven mesh of fiberglass, metal or plastic that spans the window opening to ensure air passes through.
Weatherstrip
This strong piece of material will cover the joint between the frame and sash to eliminate air leaks and keep water from getting in.
Additional Structures That Make Up a Window
Apron
This decorative trim is located under the window stool, giving the window interior a sleek, modern design.
Hinges
The kind of window you have determines the hinges’ location. If you have a casement window, the hinges on the jambs of the non-opening side. For an awning window, the hinges are located on the frame head as the window opens up from the window. On hopper windows, the hinges can be found on the sill, as the window will open from the top.
Spacers
Spaces located on the window frame bottom and top will hold at least two glass panes together. These help to insulate the window.
Common Materials Used On Windows
Fiberglass
The window sash and frame are made up of five-layer fiberglass material.
Vinyl
These are extruded stiff PVS on the exterior and interior sash and frame surfaces.
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If you are searching for replacement windows for your home in New Jersey, you may be confused by the technical lingo provided and don’t know what is best for your home.
In the below guide, we will share with you ways to evaluate replacement windows objectively without the pressure of a salesperson who claims to have one and only one product that is the best money can buy.
We’ll also cover facts about replacement windows in New Jersey and give you all the information you need to prepare yourself for your replacement purchase. In addition, we’ll provide some insight on the top window replacement companies in New Jersey to assist you with finding a quality contractor to estimate your project.
Key Takeaways:
Building codes: In New Jersey, building codes regulate window replacement projects. Homeowners must ensure that their replacement windows meet the state’s energy efficiency and safety requirements. It’s essential to work with a licensed and insured window replacement contractor who understands the building codes and regulations in the state.
Energy savings: Replacing old windows with energy-efficient windows can lead to significant energy savings. In NJ, homeowners can save on their energy bills by choosing windows with an Energy Star rating that meets the state’s energy efficiency requirements. Energy-efficient window options include double-paned or triple-paned glass, low-e coatings, and insulated frames.
Aesthetics and design: Window replacement is also an opportunity to enhance the look and feel of your home. Homeowners in NJ can choose from various window styles, materials, and colors to complement their homes’ architectural styles. Some popular window styles include double-hung, casement, and bay windows, while materials like vinyl, fiberglass, and wood offer different looks and maintenance requirements.
Cost: The window replacement cost in NJ can vary depending on the type of windows, size, and project complexity. Homeowners should get quotes from multiple contractors and ensure that the quotes include all costs related to the project, including installation, disposal of old windows, and any necessary permits.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance of replacement windows is essential to ensure their longevity and performance. Homeowners in NJ should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance and inspect their windows regularly for signs of wear and tear or damage. Regular cleaning, lubrication of hardware, and sealing gaps or cracks can help prevent air leaks and other issues.
Table of Contents
Why Replace Your Windows?
There are multiple reasons why people replace their windows. In a recent survey conducted by Window and Door Magazine, the top 10 reasons to replace your windows are:
Energy efficiency – One of the primary sources of energy loss in a home is inefficient and poorly sealed windows. You can save 15- 20% or more on your utility bills with replacement windows. Older homes with windows that have single-pane glass can realize even higher savings. With the price of energy rising, your savings will continue to compound for as long as you stay home.
Easy Cleaning – Windows get dirty often and drastically reduce the amount of visible light in your home. The ability to clean your windows is more important than ever, especially as more stay home for longer periods. Over the years, many new features have been developed to assist in window cleaning. Most double-hung windows feature easy tilt-in sashes which allow cleaning of the exterior glass from the interior of your home. Some casement windows crank out and over to allow cleaning for the inside. Others provide exterior glass coatings that keep windows clean for longer periods of time.
Low to Zero Maintenance – Today, many manufacturers offer an exterior window that requires virtually no maintenance. Besides cleaning and inspecting the caulk joints, you should enjoy many years of worry-free windows and trim maintenance. Windows made of vinyl, fiberglass, composite material, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood or all aluminum will provide you with varying degrees of low maintenance. Most will eliminate the need to paint regularly, saving on your painting bills.
Aesthetics – New windows can give your home a new and modern look. They also can match your original home while delivering energy-saving benefits. Most window replacement companies offer different color choices for the exterior and hardwood interiors. Grid options can also allow you to change the look of your home on the outside totally.
Comfort – Another great benefit of new windows is the reduction of cold drafts in the winter and hotspots in the house during the summer. New energy-efficient windows with reflective properties help keep radiant heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer. This helps keep homes, especially those in climates like New Jersey, cool and comfortable all year!
Noise reduction – Double and triple pane glass, Low E coatings, Argon, Krypton gas, and modern weather stripping all contribute to a quieter home when your windows are replaced. For those high-traffic areas, laminated glass can dramatically reduce sound transmission through your windows.
Safety – Today’s modern windows have easy-to-use features that provide an escape route in case of fire. Ease of operation, easy tilt latches, and the ability to remove sashes can give you peace of mind in a fire. Tempered or safety glass protects high traffic and high-hazard areas where there is a danger of falling through the glass or glass breakage. For ultimate security protection, laminated glass can prevent or reduce the chance of break-ins and eliminate the need for security bars.
Durability – High-quality windows are built with the latest advances in technology. You can expect many years of trouble-free performance, low maintenance, and energy savings with quality replacement windows. Many manufacturers are now offering limited lifetime warranties.
Re-sale value – New windows enhance the value of your home and are one of many value rating points for appraisers.
UV protection – Fading of carpet, furniture, floors, and drapes is commonplace with old windows. With new glass technology, these issues can be drastically reduced without dramatically affecting the amount of visible light transmittance.
Types of Replacement Windows in NJ
There are several different types of replacement window options to consider. When choosing a window type, consider things like energy efficiency ratings, price, maintenance, durability, strength, and color selections.
Wood Windows
Wood windows have been around forever and remain popular for people looking to achieve a traditional aesthetic. Wood windows provide excellent thermal performance overall due to natural insulating qualities.
Some neighborhoods, especially historical ones, often require that replacement windows be made of wood. Proper weather stripping is key when using wood windows to prevent drafts and maximize energy efficiency.
The biggest drawback to wood replacement windows is the cost. There are also a lot of “bad” wood windows out there. Pay attention to the type of lumber and ensure it’s treated after it is cut to maintain aesthetics and performance.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: High
Maintenance: High
Durability: Fair
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Very Good
Wood Clad Windows
Wood-clad windows are a good option if wood windows are desired, but maintenance is a major concern. Cladding is typically an aluminum or vinyl protective cover that shields the wood exterior from the weather but leaves the natural wood exposed inside.
There are three types of wood-clad windows to consider:
Extruded aluminum-clad windows
Roll formed aluminum clad windows
Vinyl-clad windows
Extruded aluminum is more durable than roll-formed. Vinyl-clad windows are the least durable because the sun’s rays break down vinyl over time. However, vinyl’s low thermal conduction properties may provide a slightly higher energy efficiency rating over aluminum.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Good
Vinyl Windows
Once upon a time, vinyl windows were considered a less-than-ideal choice for window replacement. Design enhancements and improvements in vinyl formulation have improved the product’s quality. And now it is a nice alternative to wood.
Vinyl’s low thermal conduction properties make it nearly ideal for use in windows. Overall the thicker the vinyl, the stronger and more energy efficient the vinyl window. Remember: Not all vinyl windows are created equal. The type of vinyl used in the window greatly impacts the product’s performance and lifespan.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: Moderate
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Average
Color Selection: Average
Cellular PVC Windows
Cellular PVC windows are fairly new to the window replacement market. Cellular PVC is a solid, extruded material that has the working characteristics of wood and is used for interior trim, exterior trim, and paneling, as well as windows and doors, blinds, and furniture.
Cellular PVC has very high tensile strength and resistance to movement caused by thermal expansion and contraction. Cellular PVC is medium white and can be painted with light acrylic paints. Because profiles can be welded like vinyl and milled like wood, they can be produced to look like a wood window. Cellular PVC avoids many potential wood problems, such as rot, split, water absorption, peeling paint, and termites. It can be left unfinished or with a color-matched permanent finish.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Good
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum Windows were very popular when energy prices were not a concern. Today aluminum windows are used more in commercial buildings because of their structural strength, which allows very large glass sizes to be used.
Aluminum is a very good conductor of heat (1000 times more than wood and vinyl) and cold. However, they can be designed with a much smaller profile than wood or vinyl. This can minimize heat frame loss and yield a larger glass vision area.
Energy Efficiency: Average
Price: Moderate
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Very Good
Strength: Very Good
Color Selection: Good
Fiberglass
Fiberglass Windows are relatively new to the market and can provide a combination of benefits. Fiberglass is structurally strong, expands and contracts very little with temperature changes, and is a good insulator. Fiberglass frames are much stronger than vinyl and, therefore, can be made with a lower profile like aluminum but with better thermal efficiency.
Fiberglass windows are typically priced above vinyl and equal to the cost of high-end wood windows. As more new window products come on the market today, the issue of availability and price will determine which housing market segment will accept or demand fiberglass products.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: High
Maintenance: Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Very Good
Color Selection: Good
How to Tell if a Window is Energy Efficient
As you can see from this guide, New Jersey has many window options with varying degrees of energy efficiency. Due to the high cost of replacing windows, homeowners are often concerned with the energy efficiency rating of windows.
Finding a NJ window replacement company that can provide the best energy-efficient windows is necessary for those looking for a fast return on investment. But nowadays, everyone says they have energy-efficient windows. How do you know how efficient a window is? What are some things that you should look for?
In this section, we’ll cover the primary energy-efficient rating systems for windows in New Jersey.
NFRC
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit organization that administers the only uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and attachment products.
Their goal is to provide fair, accurate, and reliable energy performance ratings so that consumers can compare different products and make informed buying decisions. In addition, their ratings are used to determine if products meet local building codes, establish performance requirements, and show new technology’s benefits as it enters the marketplace.
By using the information on the NFRC label, consumers can reliably compare one replacement window with another. The NFRC label lists the manufacturer, describes the product, provides a source for additional information, and includes ratings for a variety of performance metrics, including:
U-Factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping. U-Factor ratings generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. The insulating value is indicated by the R-value, which is the inverse of the U-value. The lower the U-value, the greater a window’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits.
Visible Transmittance (VT) – measures how much light comes through a product. The visible transmittance is an optical property in that VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the more light is transmitted.
Air Leakage (AL) is indicated by a rating expressed as the equivalent cubic feet of air passing through a square foot of window area (cfm/sq ft). Heat loss and gain occur by infiltration through cracks in the window assembly. The lower the AL, the less air will pass through cracks in the window assembly.
Condensation Resistance (CR) measures the ability of a product to resist the formation of condensation on the interior surface of that product. The higher the CR rating, the better the product resists condensation formation.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR is a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy that promotes energy efficiency. The program provides information on the energy consumption of products and devices using different standardized methods.
ENERGY STAR qualified windows:
Are manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner,
Are independently tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and
Have NFRC ratings that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Though ENERGY STAR does not require specific technologies, certain product features are standard in many certified products. Performance criteria for windows are based on the below climate zones and ratings certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
Depending on where you are located in New Jersey, your windows should meet the performance criteria of either Northern or North-Central climate zones.
New Jersey Window Replacement Costs
Replacement window prices vary from company to company, product to product. Some may appear to be ridiculously low; others outrageously high. As a general rule of thumb, window replacement costs about $650 per window for materials and installation.
Here are some general estimates for different types of window replacement projects:
Vinyl pocket replacement
Replace ten existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated vinyl replacement windows: $5000-$8000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options, and installation method.
Wood Clad pocket replacement
Replace ten existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated wood-clad replacement windows: $8000 -$12000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options, and installation method.
Wood Clad full tear out
Replace ten existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated wood-clad replacement windows (full frame tear out). Install new interior and exterior trim: $ 12000-$18000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options, and installation method.
How to Choose a NJ Window Replacement Company
There are many window replacement companies in New Jersey, and it can be overwhelming to choose one. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend getting at least three estimates before deciding.
With window replacement being a longtime investment, getting the right crew is extremely important. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing your provider.
Lifetime Warranty
A lifetime warranty guarantees that the product you receive from a business won’t fail, and if it does, the service provider will replace and repair their initial work. A lifetime warranty from a window replacement company shows confidence in their work, and the warranty can also be transferred to subsequent owners of your home should you choose to sell it.
Full Transparency
Try to find a business that will discuss every detail of the window replacement process without sugarcoating anything. This shows not only their dedication but also their trustworthiness as service providers.
It’s a good sign if a contractor communicates effectively or is willing to clarify terms you don’t know. Follow-up and professionalism are something to pay attention to during the vetting process.
Reviews and Ratings
Go online and check a provider’s Better Business Bureau rating. These ratings show how well the business interacts with its customers. BBB often tracks how long a company has been operational, its customer transparency, and even its history of complaints and how they were dealt with.
BBB has a comprehensive rating system designed to inform users with a full understanding of how well a window service provider serves their customers. Beyond the BBB, check out your potential window replacement company’s website, Facebook page, Google reviews, and other third-party ratings. The more reviews and higher the ratings, the more you can rest assured that you will get a quality job.
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