Insulated Window Shutters Save on Home Heating Costs
Oh, baby it’s cold outside… But shuttering windows during the long winter nights is an important step to keeping warm and enjoying huge fuel savings. The most effective way of reducing this heating/cooling loss is to install insulated window shutters that are fitted with a layer of insulating foam material that will bring the R- value of each window to R-17.
The tools and materials you need for this DIY project include those you probably have around the house. To name a few; a tape measure, plane, drill, square, glue, insulating foam, wooden or aluminum for the back cover, nails, hinges and of course some shutters.
1. Measuring the Window Opening
Size up a pair of good shutters to a window opening. The shutters are intended for exterior installation which will mean that window glass will not produce condensation.
2. Encasing the Shutters
Build the casing on the shutter to hold the insulated foam. Measurements must be precise to be certain the foam fits properly. Different backing materials for the finished insulated window shutters can be used depending on the style of home you have.
3. Hanging the Insulated Shutters
Hinges can be store bought or DIY self made which are fully adjustable. To hang the shutters, drill holes into the hinge and secure with screws. Hinges reinforce the insulated shutter by spanning from side to side.
4. Opening and Closing the Shutters
Various devices can be found to open and close shutters automatically with light sensitive devices or mechanically with handles and gears that enable you to operate the shutters from inside the room.
Uniform construction codes of the last 25 years have brought most homes up to a standard of insulating values that have been satisfactory for walls, roofs and windows. You can save up to 40% of heating costs by adding insulated window shutters to your home.
There are extra benefits to installing insulated window shutters on your home; they extend the life of your windows and deter against vandalism and burglary. Shutters gateshead