Q: We had new roofing and windows installed last winter, but would like to ensure that our home is as energy efficient as possible. What advice do you have?
A:
Maximize Comfort, Minimize Bills with a Whole-Home Energy Strategy
So, you’ve installed brand-new windows and roofing—congratulations! Naturally, you’re excited to start seeing those lower energy bills roll in. However, even with these upgrades, your home might still fall short of its full energy-saving potential.
At Coastal Windows & Exteriors, we take a Whole-Home Approach to energy efficiency. This means we look at the entire structure—not just isolated parts—to help you create a truly energy efficient home.
What Is an Energy Efficient Home?
Creating an energy efficient home means optimizing every system and structure to reduce energy loss and maximize comfort. Although new windows and roofing are major steps, true efficiency requires deeper coordination across your home’s exterior and interior systems.
To help homeowners evaluate this, the U.S. Department of Energy developed the Home Energy Score. This score considers how your home uses energy based on its layout, materials, and mechanical systems.
Therefore, to improve energy efficiency, you need to consider your home’s Thermal Envelope—the physical barrier that separates the conditioned interior from the outdoors.
How Our Products Help Seal the Thermal Envelope
Rather than focusing on one component, we use industry-leading products that work together to reduce heat loss and improve comfort.
🪟 Windows
We exclusively install Soft-Lite Element Windows, which are engineered for airtight performance. Because they’re built with minimal human handling during manufacturing, you get consistent seals that prevent energy loss.
🚪 Doors
Similarly, our ProVia fiberglass and steel entry doors combine beauty with advanced energy-saving features such as:
Multi-pane insulated glass packages
Foam-filled cores
Weather stripping and rot-proof thresholds
These features ensure your entry points support—not compromise—your energy goals.
🧱 Siding
Many homeowners don’t realize how much energy is lost through their walls. That’s why we install Craneboard Solid Core Vinyl Siding from Exterior Portfolio. This siding adds insulation and blocks heat transfer, unlike standard vinyl siding that serves only as a shell.
🏠 Roofing
Your roof plays a critical role in your home’s efficiency. Because warm air rises, a poorly insulated roof can cause significant heat loss in winter. Our GAF Roofing Systems use multiple layers to trap heat, protect against leaks, and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Take the Next Step: Schedule a Home Energy Audit
Once you’ve updated your windows and roof, the best way to move forward is by scheduling a Home Energy Audit. This audit identifies:
Air leaks
Insulation gaps
Inefficient HVAC systems
Areas of high energy waste
As a result, you’ll have a clear roadmap of what to address next.
📌 Schedule yours here to get expert guidance and actionable insights.
Additional Upgrades That Support an Energy Efficient Home
After your audit, you might want to consider these smart improvements:
🧱 Insulation
Even if you’ve sealed your home well, poor insulation can undo much of your hard work. That’s why adding or upgrading insulation in the walls, attic, roof, and crawl spaces is one of the best ways to boost performance.
In fact, proper insulation can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.
❄️ HVAC System Upgrades
Heating and cooling account for nearly 50% of home energy use. If your system is older, even Energy Star windows won’t offset the loss. Upgrading to an efficient HVAC system helps air circulate better and reduces overall load.
Moreover, newer systems are quieter, healthier, and more cost-effective over time.
☀️ Solar Panels
Want to go even further? Consider adding solar panels. These not only reduce your electric bills but also offer environmental and tax benefits. In New England, many homeowners recoup their investment within just a few years.
💡 LED Lighting and Smart Controls
Lighting plays a subtle but important role in energy efficiency. Replace outdated fixtures with LEDs and add smart controls like dimmers and timers. These small changes result in measurable savings over time.
🪟 Electric Window Shades
Controlling indoor heat during the summer months is essential. With programmable electric window shades, you can let in natural light during the morning while blocking heat in the afternoon. As a result, your AC system runs more efficiently.
Bonus: Curb Appeal + Efficiency Go Hand-in-Hand
Although it doesn’t directly impact your utility bills, maintaining your landscaping can affect natural lighting, airflow, and how well your siding and windows perform. Therefore, keeping trees trimmed or clearing overgrowth can enhance both curb appeal and indoor comfort.
The Complete Picture: A Smarter, More Comfortable Home
In conclusion, building an energy efficient home is not about a single upgrade—it’s about aligning every component so they work together. From airtight windows to a well-insulated roof and everything in between, your home must act as a unified system.
If you’re unsure where to begin, schedule a Home Energy Audit and let our team help you prioritize improvements based on your budget, timeline, and comfort goals.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Let Coastal Windows & Exteriors help you make your home more comfortable, efficient, and valuable. Whether you’re improving insulation, upgrading doors, or exploring solar—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call us today at (978) 304-0495
🌐 Visit: www.mycoastalwindows.com
Your home deserves to be both beautiful and energy efficient—let’s make it happen together.
