Basement Window Insulation

Basement InsulationIn a document published by the US Department of Energy, it is reported that energy bills can be saved by 30-40% simply by sealing all windows in cold climates.  If you look at those facts carefully, they make a lot of sense.  The basement is surrounded by thick walls on all sides of the home—except where the basement windows are.  As far as insulation is concerned, the windows are the weakest link.  If you finish your home and neglect to make sure your basement windows are sealed the best they can be, you’re overlooking an important point!

Single-paned basement windows with steel frames are the worst seen on the market for basement insulation.  Even brand new, they only have an R-1 insulation rating.  However, these rustable windows will deteriorate in about five years, and as they do, their R-rating will as well.  Wooden windows decompose at a similar rate and can attract insects as they do.  However, windows with double panes and vinyl siding are better, with an R-rating of 2, meaning that 75% of heat is reflected back into the basement.

Basement Window Insulation is vital!Installing Low-E glass in the basement windows will also make a very significant difference in their ability to insulate.  In the example of the double-paned basement windows with vinyl siding and an R value of 2, using low-E glass will raise the insulative R-rating to almost 3!  Low-E glass has been proven to allow the heating rays of the sun into the home in the winter while reflecting them in the summer, giving the basement extra heat just when you need it.

Another way to add insulation to a basement window well is to install a reliable basement window well enclosure.  Removing ugly, rusted steel basement window wells and adding a plastic enclosure that can reflect beautiful sunlight back into the home while keeping cold, unforgiving winter winds away from the home keeps the cold away from the basements in the first place and creates an air buffer between the windows and the outside environment.

Total Basement Finishing installs EverLast Basement Windows with their basement remodeling projects for the best choice in remodeled basements.  These crystal clear double thermopaned windows include vinyl framing and energy efficient Low-E glass.  They never need paint and will never rust, rot, or corrode, allowing them to send beautiful light into your basement for years to come!

[Back to: Basement Insulation Home]

Bookmark and Share