The Hidden Energy Costs of Outdated Windows and Glass Doors
How Old Glass Is Draining Your Wallet—and What City Glass Company Can Do About It
When most homeowners in Janesville think about cutting utility bills, they look at thermostats, insulation, or HVAC systems. But there’s a silent energy drain that often goes unnoticed—outdated windows and glass doors. These older systems can quietly sap your home’s efficiency, leading to higher heating and cooling costs year after year.
At City Glass Company, we’ve seen firsthand how modern glass technology transforms homes—not just aesthetically, but economically. If your windows are more than 15–20 years old, it’s time to look at what they might be costing you behind the scenes.
Why Old Windows and Glass Doors Fail Energy Efficiency
Many homes in southern Wisconsin still rely on single-pane windows or older dual-pane units with degraded seals. Over time, frames warp, seals break, and glass loses its insulating capacity. The result? Air leakage, heat transfer, and inconsistent indoor temperatures.
Common issues include:
- Drafts near window edges
- Condensation between panes (failed seals)
- Cold glass surfaces in winter
- Overheating rooms in summer
These conditions force your heating and cooling systems to work overtime—and that’s money out of your pocket every month.
The Real Cost: What You're Paying in Wasted Energy
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows accounts for up to 30% of residential energy use. In Wisconsin’s climate, where winters are long and summers can be intense, outdated windows make your home vulnerable to extreme temperature swings.
A home with outdated glass can cost hundreds of dollars more per year in utility bills compared to one outfitted with modern, energy-efficient windows and doors.
What Makes Today’s Glass Smarter and More Efficient
Modern windows and glass doors use advanced materials and coatings that significantly improve performance. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Low-E Glass (Low Emissivity): Reflects infrared and UV rays, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Argon Gas Fills: Inert gas between panes improves insulation.
- Thermally Broken Frames: Reduce heat transfer from the outside in.
- Multi-Pane Construction: Minimizes noise and enhances energy efficiency.
These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re real solutions that lower your energy bills and increase your home’s comfort.
A Smart Investment That Pays You Back
Replacing outdated windows and doors isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. It’s an investment that offers:
- Lower monthly energy costs
- Improved indoor comfort
- Increased home value
- Reduced wear on HVAC systems
Many homeowners recoup a significant portion of the cost in just a few years through energy savings alone. And with today’s financing options and potential tax incentives, upgrading has never been more accessible.
Ready to Stop Losing Money Through Your Windows?
City Glass Company has been serving the Janesville community for decades with expert craftsmanship, honest advice, and high-performance window solutions. Whether you're renovating your entire home or replacing a few problem panes, we offer modern glass systems that are built to perform in Wisconsin's toughest seasons.
Contact us today to schedule a free energy assessment and see how much your old windows are really costing you.
