With all the focus we put on the interiors of our homes, it is easy to think of windows as secondary. We might not pay much attention to the multitude of functions that windows serve other than simply letting light into the house. In fact, windows can affect the home’s microclimate in significant ways.
Gaining a greater understanding of the impact that your windows can have on your home can make a big difference in the way you approach your home overall. Paying closer attention to the functions that windows can fulfill can affect your home’s temperature, ventilation, and ultimately your energy bills. And if you are in the market for new windows, you should contact Broga Window & Door. They’ve got all the styles and quality that you want in new windows.
What functions do windows fulfill?
Other than simply letting in light, windows play a major role in regulating various aspects of your home. Accordingly, the size, construction, and placement of your windows can have a major impact on the look and feel of your home’s interior.
Temperature control
The type and positioning of your windows can have a much greater impact on your home’s temperature regulation than you might think. Specifically:
- Heat increase. If you have windows that face the sun, your house will gain a lot more heat. This is particularly the case in the summer, when there are a lot more daylight hours. Windows that face south will let in the most heat. If you want to avoid overheating, you should consider light curtains or blinds.
- Heat loss. Window insulation can make a big difference in the amount of heat that you lose in winter. There are several different things that you can do to increase the amount of insulation that your windows provide, including choosing multi-pane glass and insuring proper seals on your frames.
- Solar regulation. There are particular kinds of glass that are known as “solar control glass” that can modify how much heat gets in. You can also find reflective coatings that can help reduce energy loss through solar control.
Windows and ventilation
The relationship between windows and ventilation involves much more than simply the fact that air comes in if you open them. Keep in mind the following points with regard to windows and airflow:
- Opening windows can be a great substitute for air conditioning. If it isn’t excessively hot in the summertime, allowing natural breezes to go through your home can freshen your air quality and help to reduce moisture levels in your home’s interior.
- Cross-ventilation can do wonders for your home’s airflow. There are different ways to allow for cross-ventilation in your home, depending on your window placements. You can open windows on opposite sides of a room, vertically (this is known as “stack ventilation”), or in a ‘hybrid” manner (using a combination of air conditioning and cross-ventilation).
- Micro-ventilation can be more useful than many people realize. You don’t necessarily have to open your windows all the way to get a nice breeze into your rooms. Some windows are actually designed to let small amounts of air in and help circulate the air in your home.
Regardless of the room in your home, window placement and ventilation can make a big difference. Even in your basement, having a basement egress windows that you can open and allow air to circulate through can help prevent mold buildup in your basement.
Windows and light
Again, the relationship between windows and light is complex and deserves close attention. Keep in mind the following points:
- Size and orientation matter. Larger windows will generally let in more light. However, placement is also important. In general, south-facing windows let in the most sunlight and north-facing ones the least. But there are also other specifics you should remember. East-facing windows receive the most light in the morning and west-facing ones in the evening.
- The number and placement of windows you have can affect the way light is distributed in your rooms. It can also affect the amount of shadows that you have. If you are still in the home-building process, consult an expert about how window distribution can affect your rooms.
- The quality of light that you receive from your windows can be affected by various factors. Certain types of glass, such as frosted glass or glass with patterns on it, can diffuse light and create a different feel in your rooms. Cleanliness is also important, as is the type of window covering that you choose for your rooms.
Other things to consider
Beyond the factors mentioned above, you should also take into consideration the humidity level in your house. High levels of humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be very difficult to get rid of. Ensuring proper ventilation can do a lot to decrease this risk. Choosing an option like tilt and turn windows can bring in much-needed ventilation that will help to reduce humidity.
Also, keep in mind that windows manufacturers are making more and more sustainable windows all the time. Look for features such as Energy Star certification, low-e coatings, and double- or triple-pane glazing for the most energy efficient windows possible.
Quality windows, happy home
If you have the privilege of being able to design your own home, think carefully about the size and placement of your windows. Even if you aren’t in a position to create new spaces, you can make a big difference in the amount of light, heat, and ventilation that come into your home by focusing on the quality of your windows. Your home will be better lit, have greater ventilation, and you will benefit from lower energy bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
My house is naturally draughty. How much can the right windows help me?
While windows can’t help with every aspect of your home, they can go a long way in helping you to insulate it. You can use the same kind of sealant on other cracks (doorways, etc) that you use on windows.
I want to let light into my rooms, but I fear that they will become too hot. How can I manage both?
If you invest in light-colored curtains or blinds, you will still be able to let sunlight into your rooms while keeping out a lot of the heat.
How can I achieve cross-ventilation if my windows are oddly placed?
Ventilation works in different ways. If you have multiple windows that can lead to each other on the same floor, try opening them at the same time and see how it works. If you don’t get a sufficient breeze, you might have to focus on other forms of air circulation.
