New Replacement Windows vs. Air Sealing

Home Comfort Tactics

I will tell you right now - this study proves that you should not replace your windows if you want to make your home more comfortable! This study shows that replacement windows only reduce drafts by 6% compared with other, less expensive retrofit plans, including sealing the attic and other important places like the top of the foundation wall in a basement or crawl space.
I am a former window contractor, and it was exciting to have an excellent opportunity to test this Silver Spring home in three stages of improvements to the envelope or shell of the house.
I tested before any work was done. Then, I tested after air sealing and adding insulation and then I tested again after all of the old window configurations were replaced with new, high-performance vinyl windows.
THE RESULTS WERE ASTOUNDING!
Test in: 4187 CFM
Test after air sealing attic and basement: 2042 CFM (51% Reduction)
Test after installing all new windows: 1805 CFM (6% Reduction)
00:00 A Little Background on this Window and Insulation Expert
02:29 Windows are Not the Source of Your Comfort Problems
04:07 First Air Leakage Test on House Windows January 2022
06:11 How Much do Windows Account for Air Leakage in a Typical Home?
06:38 January 2023 - Air Sealing, Insulation & New Windows in Silver Spring Maryland
08:28 Birds-Eye-View of Air Sealing an Attic
09:46 Second Air Leakage Test on House with Air Sealing & Insulation Completed May 2023
11:09 Third Air Leakage Test on House with Windows Replaced June 2023
If you would like to learn more about my home performance company or get in touch, please visit https://www.hometrustremodeling.com or https://ericgans.com.
Unlock Your Home's Full Potential - Hometrust Remodeling, Your Trusted Partner in Maryland Home Performance
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