I live in a house built in the mid-90s and haven't noticed any major issues with my windows. They're all double-paned, and there aren't any visible signs of problems like blown seals or condensation. However, I recently used an infrared thermometer on a warm day and found that the windows in direct sunlight were reading temperatures between the mid-90s to over 100°F, while those not in direct sun were in the high 80s. This makes the bedrooms that get sun feel much warmer and stuffier compared to other rooms. Should I just increase the HVAC settings, or is it time for new windows? Do modern windows really offer better energy efficiency, and are there any other solutions I should consider? By the way, I've ruled out attic insulation as an issue, since I just upgraded to spray foam and the attic is a comfortable 80°F.
1 Answer
The heat you're sensing is pretty normal; the sun will naturally warm up surfaces. If the windows themselves are still functioning properly and showing no damage, you might not need to replace them. Consider using curtains or reflective window films to help block that heat during the day.
Do those reflective tints really work?