Window treatments to keep your home warm this winter
Aren't you tired of sky-high winter power bills? Start with your windows to stop the cold from getting in.
BRANZ, an independent research organisation, says:
• 42% to 45% of heat in houses insulated to Pre-2007 requirements is lost through windows.
• If your home has been built or renovated under the 2007 Building Code, which requires double glazing, you still lose up to 31% of heat through windows.
• Properly fitted curtains and blinds can cut heat loss through single glazed windows by 60% and double glazed windows by 40-50%.
Choosing the right window treatments will help insulate windows and prevent heat loss. Here are three options to answer your "how can I warm up my home?" this winter.
Honeycomb Blinds
Honeycomb blinds are one of the most energy-efficient window treatments. They are also known as honeycomb or cellular shades. These window coverings feature a honeycomb structure to make an air pocket between the window glass and the room that acts as an insulator, blocking heat and keeping the cold out.
When a heater is running, Honeycomb blinds reduce heat loss through windows by up to 60%, which equals around 10% savings on your heating energy. In hotter months, honeycomb blinds reduce unwanted heat from the sun through windows by up to 60% when installed with a tight fit. They are available in different layering options, including single and double-cell.
Heavy curtains or drapes
Drapes or curtains are another way to insulate your home by adding one extra barrier against the cold winter air. The main difference is that curtains are sized to fit the window, and drapes reach the floor.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
Poll: Do you think a partial demolition is the right call?
One of the most recognisable buildings at Waikato Diocesan School for Girls could be demolished, except for part of the façade.
The school is asking for resource consent to knock down most of the earthquake-prone Cherrington House as part of plans to build a larger, safer administration block.
Do you think a partial demolition is the right call? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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33.3% Yes
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23.8% Not sure
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42.9% No
Poll: Are quality products on the decline?
Gift-giving looks a lot different these days when you can pick up super-cheap goods made overseas. But do they last?
Do you have any old items like appliances, electronics or clothing that have stood the test of time? Share below!
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91.9% Yes
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7.2% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Would you like to do this?
The opportunity to www.waikatotimes.co.nz...
|get up close to an 11-month-old tiger cub|, a porcupine, a tuatara or the siamangs could be the perfect Christmas stocking fillers.
The Hamilton Zoo already offers encounters with macaws, tigers, ring-tailed lemurs and rhinos, however soon the others will be on offer.
Would you like to do this? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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75% Yes
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25% Maybe
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0% No