"Sales process was good, courteous and helpful. Installation instructions were easy to follow. Did have a small issue with one sensor which was easily solved with a call. Control panel is easy to use and well constructed. Phone app is the best part. Not a big fan of a 2 year contract and the monthly rate feels a little high, but definitely a decent system. I had emailed them a question pertaining installing on double hung windows and never received a reply, but other than that their phone support prior to that was good."
Replacing a window frame will improve your home’s energy efficiency if the old frame is cracked or damaged in a way that allows unconditioned air from the outside into your living space or if you upgrade to a more energy-efficient window frame material. Aluminum is the least energy-efficient window frame material, followed by vinyl and wood. Fiberglass and composite frames are the most energy-efficient.
ENERGY STAR®-certified windows are the most energy-efficient windows on the market. This certification means that the window meets strict efficiency guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency. While they might cost more upfront, they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. ENERGY STAR®-certified windows lower household energy bills by an average of 12% annually.
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are the most energy-efficient and insulating window treatments. Their honeycomb structure is made of soft fabric that forms layered cell pockets. These pockets trap air, creating a thermal barrier that reduces heat loss in the winter and blocks heat gain in the summer. For even greater insulation, consider double- or triple-cell varieties. Side-tracked cellular shades, which seal the edges of the window frame, can further minimize air leaks and maximize energy efficiency.
You can easily and cheaply use tin foil or cardboard to black out your windows. Save a pretty penny by cutting either material to the size of your windows and taping it to the window. This is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly blackout solutions, but it definitely isn’t the most aesthetically friendly.
Energy-efficient windows are judged on their performance according to a few different factors, including heat transfer, air leakage, light transference, and condensation resistance. If you're unsure whether a window is energy-efficient, look for an ENERGY STAR® label from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If various products, including windows, meet energy-efficiency standards set by the federal government, the EPA issues this label to help consumers identify energy-efficient products.
The Jackman, ME homeowners’ guide to window tinting services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Tinting your home’s windows can add privacy, increase energy efficiency, and block damaging UV rays. Find out who tints home windows so you can hire the best.
