What Causes Heat Loss Through Windows?

The doors and windows of your home are not only there to keep you and your belongings safe, but also to help maintain a comfortable climate throughout your home. In the winter, the main job of any window is to keep the cold out and prevent precipitation from entering your home. Winnipeg winters are particularly harsh, and energy bills can soar if your windows don’t perform as they should.

Heat Loss Through Windows

Heat loss through the components of the window itself is fairly common. Since the window is in direct contact with the cold air outside, this can cause it to affect the temperature of the air it comes into contact with inside your home. This, however, is more of a concern for those who still have old style single pane windows. Window companies have long been installing double pane windows, and there are even triple pane options on the market now too. The spaces between each of the window panes are filled with a specialised gas (with a higher density than regular air). Due to the increased density, it slows down the transfer of warmth from the interior pane to the exterior pane. It also helps keep the cold out, where it belongs.

Energy Efficient Window Frames

Heat loss can also be attributed to the materials used to manufacture the window frames. Different types of materials conduct heat and cold at varying rates. For example, some metals are better conductors than others. Similarly, wood is not as good a conductor as metal. Vinyl offers very little conductibility which is one of the main reasons for its increased popularity. So, when it’s cold outside, your window frames inside won’t be nearly as cold as a metal frame, for example.

Window Inspection

Heat loss can also occur on operational windows if they are not properly aligned, if they are misused, or damaged. If they don’t line up properly, the seal won’t be as perfect as it should be and this can result in air leaks. Weather stripping can also wear down from time to time. It’s important to inspect the weather stripping when you conduct your regular window inspections. If you notice any damages, it’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible. Another are to check is the space of wall surrounding the window. Check all sides (both inside and outside) for any missing caulking. In some cases, you will simply need to touch up the affected areas. If the window frame has suffered significant damage, caulking might not be enough to solve the problem, and you may need a full window replacement. It’s important to remember that heat loss during the winter will also mean that your home will be warmer than you’d like during the summer. The same factors that help keep the cold out in the winter are responsible for keeping the heat out in the summer. Resolving the problem may require a fair to significant investment, but it will more than pay for itself over time by helping you save on your energy bills. Whether your Winnipeg home needs a full window replacement or retrofit, NorthShield Windows and Doors are always delighted to provide you with all the expert advice you need along with a free in-house quote! Call us today to schedule your appointment.  

Call us: Winnipeg: (204) 272-3725Toronto/GTA: (905) 326-3444