Windows are often the least energy efficient part of the exterior of your home, especially if you have single paned windows.
There are several options for weatherizing and making your windows more energy efficient without replacing them.
photo courtesy of wetape www.sxc.hu/photo/1225430Make Your Windows Air Tight
Make sure your windows have been sealed with caulk or silicone so there are no air leaks.
Use Window Coverings
Window coverings on the inside of your home will make your windows more energy efficient.
You can use blinds, drapes, shades, or even thermal curtains to cover your windows and keep the cold and heat out of your home.
Plant Deciduous Trees
Deciduous trees create shade that will keep your windows cooler in the summer, however they loose their leaves that will allow warm sunlight to hit your windows in the winter.
Make sure the tree you plant is not too close to your home that it will damage your foundation.
Add an Awning
Awnings create shade on your windows that will keep them cooler in the summer.
Awnings can reduce the temperature on the outside of your windows by as much as 15 degrees.
Awnings can be constructed using fabric, wood, metal, or most any other material.
Add Solar Screens
Solar screens are dark colored screens that are attached to the exterior of your windows to create shade.
Solar screens work well to reduce the heat from the sun from hitting the windows, however they are not always aesthetically pleasing.
Because solar screens can reduce the temperature inside your room by as much as 20 degrees, they are very energy efficient.
Add Window Tinting Film
Window tinting film can be added to the inside of your windows to keep the heat out of your home in the summer.
It comes in many colors and opacities depending on your particular situation.
You can purchase window tinting film at your local hardware store and install it yourself, or you can hire a company to install the window film.
Window tinting film can be very challenging to get it installed perfectly.
If you have a small window, consider attempting to install the film yourself. If you have a medium or large window, consider hiring a company to install the film for you.