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Al’s Plumbing, in Plano, Texas Provides Full-Service Plumbing; Maintenance, Repairs, and Replacements For Every Plumbing Component In Your Home. We sell and install gas and electric water heaters.  Al’s is near your home in; northeast Dallas TX, Garland, TX and Richardson, Texas.  We service all homes in southern Collin County, TX, and northeastern Dallas County, TX with no additional travel charges.

Call Al’s Today To Discuss Any Concerns Or Problems You Have With Your Home’s Plumbing. 

We will arrange an appointment at your convenience.

This Is Part-5 (Windows & Exterior Doors) Of Our Multi-Part Article Describing 75+ Ways

To Lower Cooling Costs Without Upgrading Your HVAC System (and most also lower heating costs).  

75+ Ways To Lower Cooling Costs (& heating)

Without Upgrading Your HVAC System

Part-5 Covers: Windows & Exterior Doors. 

Part-5: Also Covers (at the end).

• Impact-Resistant / Hurricane-Rated Windows — And Their Merit In Tornado-Prone Areas.  
• Impact-Resistant / Hurricane-Rated Entry Doors & Garage Doors — And Their Merit In Tornado-Prone Areas.  
• Hurricane-Rated, Structure-Enhancing Building Products — And Their Merit In Tornado-Prone Areas.   

Image Source: Shutterstock

Click Here To Go To Part-1 Of This Article: Part-1 A/C Cleaning & Maintenance

These World Events Prompted Progress Toward More Energy-Efficient Homes In The U.S.

• The 1st “Energy Crisis” occurred in 1973 — when OPEC placed an oil embargo on the U.S.  Oil prices increased by +400%.
• The 2nd “Energy Crisis” occurred in 1979 — when Iran reduced oil exports by nearly -90%.
• Oil prices rose from $3/barrel (in 1972) — to $40/barrel (in 1979).  A +1,300% increase.

• This Is WHEN & WHY The U.S. Began A Tremendous Energy-Saving Mindset For Newly-Built Homes.
• Homes began becoming much more energy efficient during the 1970s.

—————

YOUR HOME’S OVERALL ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATING

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is a (standardized) measurement of a home’s energy efficiency.  This Index can be used to compare the energy use of different homes — much like the “Miles Per Gallon” comparison for cars.  For many years, new homes must now be built to comply with the most recent International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS Index) – By Decade Built: 

  As determined by the U.S. Dept. Of Energy (DOE) in 2008.

HERS Index Scale = 0-300.  +1 HERS Index Point = –1% Less Energy-Efficient.

TIP: The Older The Home, The Higher Its HERS Score — Indicating It’s A Less Energy-Efficient Home.

Image Source: Shutterstock

• HERS Index = 300 for a  pre-1950 built home.

 Image Source: Shutterstock

• HERS Index = 200 for a 1951–1969 built home (up to twice as energy-efficient as pre-1950 homes).

Image Source: Shutterstock

• HERS Index = 140-195 for a 1970-1987 built home.

• HERS Index = 130 for a 1988-built home.

Image Source: Pixabay.com

• HERS Index = 100 for a home built to comply with the 2006 IECC (International Energy Conservation Code) Building Codes.

• HERS Index = 85 for a home built to comply with the 2009 IECC.

Image Source: Pixabay.com

• HERS Index = 75 for a home built to comply with the 2012 IECC.

• HERS Index = 55 for a home built to comply with the 2015 IECC.

Image Source: Pexels.com

• HERS Index = 45 For A Home Built To Comply With The 2021 IECC.
• A 2021 IECC Building Codes Compliant Home — Is Over Twice As Energy-Efficient as a 2006 IECC Compliant Home.

—————

Why You Can’t Upgrade An Existing Home To Achieve Today’s HERS Scores

Image Source: Shutterstock

The Older The Home The Less Airtight It Was Built.

• A 2006-Built Home (HERS=100) Is 3 Times More Energy Efficient Than A Pre-1950’s Home (HERS=300).

• A 2021-Built Home (HERS=  45) Is Over 2 Times More Energy Efficient Than A 2006-Built Home (HERS=100).

Over the years, Building Materials & Home Building Practices Have Made Astonishing Progress.  Today’s homes have countless improvements that have reduced air leakage so low — that Mechanical Ventilation is now needed to ensure healthy Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).  Healthy IAQ requires a home to exchange around 1/3 of its indoor air with outdoor air each hour.

One Of The Most Recognized Air-Leakage-Reduction Products Is “House Wrap”.

(TYVEK is one well-known brand).

Image Source: Shutterstock

—————-

How You Can Dramatically Increase Energy Efficiency In A Home Of Any Age

The 3 Improvements With The Highest Energy-Saving Payoffs: 1. Increase Attic Insulation & 2. Decrease Ductwork & Air Leakage.

• Click Here For Our Article About Adding Attic Insulation: Attic Insulation

• Click Here For Our Article About Sealing Air Leaks In Ductwork: Seal Ductwork Air Leaks

• Click Here For Our Article About Sealing Home Air Leaks:  Seal Home Air Leaks

Part-5: Windows & Exterior Doors

Image Source: Shutterstock

• Part-5 Discusses:

How To Lower Cooling Costs:

• With Existing Windows — With Window-Film.   
• With Existing Windows — With Insulating See-Through Curtains.
• With Existing Windows — With Insulating Room-Darkening / Privacy Curtains.

• Modestly-Priced Replacement Vinyl Windows  

• Entry Doors Insulating Values.
• Storm Doors — Additional Insulating Merit.

• Details About Various Window Glass Configurations’ Ability — To Reduce Outdoor Noise Entering A Home. 

Image Source: Shutterstock

New Windows Have 2 Efficiency Ratings

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) AND U-Factor 

SHGC

Image Source: Shutterstock

• Solar Heat-Gain Coefficient /SHGC is how much of the sun’s heat passes through the glass.
• An SHGC = .25 indicates that 25% of the sun’s heat passes through the glass.
• A Lower SHGC Is Better.  A lower number indicates the glass keeps more of the sun’s heat outside.
• SHGC is more important in the Southern U.S.

U-Factor

Image Source: Shutterstock

• U-Factor (also called U-value) — Ranges between .15 — 1.25.
• U-Factor indicates how many BTU’s of heat escapes through 1 square foot of window (glass + frame) — at 0F degrees outdoors.
• A Lower U-factor Is Better.  A lower number indicates the window is better at keeping heat inside a home.
• U-Factor is more important in the Northern U.S.

U-Factor Source: https://www.royaltywindows.com/u-factor-value-explained/

To Skip The Window-Films Section.

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines.

Adding Tinting To Existing Windows Can Lower Cooling Costs

TIP: Earlier DFW homes’ windows leak air — but the primary problems are single-pane glass & uninsulated metal frame.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Typical Pre-2008 DFW Home’s Windows With Single-Pane Glass & Uninsulated Aluminum Frame.

With Existing DFW Single-Pane Windows (like those shown above)

You Can Lower Cooling Costs By Adding Solar Window-Film

TIP: Solar Window-Films Darken Rooms.  The Darker The Window-Film = Less Of Sun’s Heat Enters Through The Glass.

—————

Window-Film Reduces How Much Of Heat Enters Or Exits The Home Through The Glass.

TIP: In Southern Climates (like DFW):  The #1 Location For Solar-Film Is On West-Facing Windows.

In Northern Climates – the #1 Location For Solar Film Is On North-Facing Windows.

—————

TIP: In Southern Climates (Like DFW) — Window-Film Is Installed On The Outside Of The Glass.  To reduce heat entering the home.

In Northern Climates: Window-Film Is Installed On The Inside Of The Glass.  To reduce heat exiting the home.

Below Is An Add-On Solar Window Film

To Skip This Insulating Curtains Section.

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines.

Here’s An Insulating, See-Through Sheer Curtain — With For Minimal Room Darkening.

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Shown: ThermaSheer (brand) Insulating Sheer Curtain Panels

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

Commonwealth Home Fashions (manufacturer) ThermaSheer (brand) Weathershield (model) Rod-Top Sheer Panel

• 1. Insulating Properties that reduce heat & cold (coming through the window’s glass) — from entering the room.
• 2. Noise-Reduction Properties that reduce outdoor noise coming through the glass.
• 3. UV Certified — Reduces Sun-Fading Of Items Inside The Room.
• 4. Light-Filtering & increased privacy.

Choices:

• 1 Width: 50″
• 4 Lengths: 63″, 72″, 84″ & 95″
• 2 Colors: Ivory or White.

TIP: These Insulating Sheers Look Nearly Identical To Non-Insulating Sheers.

TIP: With 8-Foot Ceilings — The 95″ Lenght Goes From Ceiling To Floor.  This increases the overall efficiency potential of the curtain by minimizing warm air (near the ceiling) entering the space between the window and the curtain – then cooling and dropping to the floor. You can see this happening in the infrared-image just below (purple/cold air at the bottom of the curtain.)

TIP: Energy-Savings Varies Based On Type Of Window Glass.  With Single-Pane Glass = Most Benefit.  With Low-E Glass = Least Benefit.

This YouTube Video Provides Additional Details About Thermasheer Insulating Sheers 

TIP: The YouTube Video Below Shows Infrared-Images Of A Window Without & With Thermasheer Panels During Winter.

Purple = Cold Temp.  Yellow = Warm Temp.

Image Source: YouTube Embedded Video Link

Here are Modestly Priced Insulating, Room-Darkening/ Privacy Curtains (can’t see through them).

Image Source: Amazon.com

Shown: Nicetown (brand) Insulating & Noise-Reducing Curtain.

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

There are many brands of insulating curtains.  This brand is one of the lowest priced and has an Amazon Reviews Rating of 4.5 Stars (out of 5) with nearly 108,000 reviews as of July 2023.  43 colors are available.  Note: These are 90%+ room-darkening (when closed).

TIP: When closed over the window, these draperies provide more insulating than the see-through sheer curtain shown above. When closed, these curtains darken the room a lot.

TIP: Darker curtain colors darken the room more than lighter colors.  43 colors are available.

— End Of Insulating Curtains Section. —

If Your DFW Home Was Built After 2010 – Skip This Section

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

Image Source: Pixabay.com

Which Type Of Windows Does Your DFW Home Have?

It Depends On The Year The Home Was Built — And Windows-Performance Required For That Year. 

Below Is The History Of Texas Adopting The International Energy Conservation Codes (IECC) Updates.

TIP: Scroll Down The The 2021 IECC — To See Current Texas Windows Performance Numbers.

TIP: Compare The Year Your DFW Home Was Built — With The IECC Version Texas Had Adopted.

TIP: You Can Find The Year Your Home Was Built From Property Tax Records.

• On 12/10/2001 Texas adopted the 2000 IECC.
• This was the first time Texas had energy-efficiency requirements.
• The 2000 IECC had no minimum windows-performance requirements.
• On 9/1/2005 Texas adopted the 2003 IECC.
• The 2003 IECC had No Minimum Windows-Performance Requirements.

ALSO: The 2003 IECC Separated The U.S. Into Eight (8) Climate Zones (CZ).

Texas’ 3 Climate Zones:

• Climate Zone-2:      Roughly the southeastern 1/2 of Texas (Houston).
• Climate Zone-3: Roughly the northwestern 1/2 of Texas — except the panhandle (Dallas).
• Climate Zone-4:      Most of the Panhandle (Amarillo).

Click Here To See A Climate Zones Map Of Of The U.S. U.S. Climate Zones Map

TIP: Only The Southern Tip Of Florida Is In Climate Zone-1 / Tropical.

This Includes; (Dade County / Miami + Broward County / Ft. Lauderdale + Monroe County / Key West + Collier County / Naples.)

(If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Below Into Your Browser) 

https://basc.pnnl.gov/images/iecc-climate-zone-map

• (Texas did not adopt the 2006 IECC.)

• On 4/19/2010 Texas adopted the 2009 IECC.
• The 2009 IECC Had Windows-Performance Standards — for each of the 8 Climate Zones.
• Climate-Zone 3 (DFW) – Requires Low-E Glass And The Performance Standards Just Below.
• For Climate-Zone 3 (DFW): U-Factor = .50 & SHGC = .30

• (Texas did not adopt the 2012 IECC.)
• On 9/1/2016 Texas adopted the 2015 IECC.
• 2015 IECC Windows-Performance Standards
• For Climate-Zone 3 (DFW): U-Factor = .35 & SHGC = .25

Texas IECC Adoption Dates Source: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Development_Services/INSP_HistoricCodeAdoptionDates.pdf

Today’s (2021 IECC) Climate-Zone-3 (Includes DFW)

Windows-Performance Requirements

• On 9/1/2021 Texas Adopted The 2021 IECC.
• 2021 IECC Windows-Performance Standards
• For Climate-Zone 3 (DFW): SHGC = .25  and U-Factor = .30 (these numbers were defined near the top of this article).

TIP: In Southern Climates — Adding (Optional) Tinting Enhances Energy-Efficiency On West-Facing Windows.

Shown: Tinted Glass typically looks somewhat green from outdoors.  Some companies also offer blue tinting.

 End Of: “Texas Adoptions Of The IECC” Section 

To Skip This Section About Window World (brand) Replacement Windows

 Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

Image Source: Shutterstock (brand of windows shown above is unknown)

Window World (brand) Replacement Windows

NOTE:  We Don’t Accept Compensation From Window World.

We Don’t Endorse Any Specific Brand Of Replacement Windows.

We Discuss Window World — Because They’re The Largest Replacement Windows Provider In The U.S.

———-

Window World’s 4000 & 6000 Series Windows Are Available In Texas.

Window World’s 8000 Series Is Available Along The Texas Coastline.

The Difference Between 4000 & 6000 Series

• The 4000 Series FRAME Has Sealed Air-Gaps To Make The Frame More Energy-Efficient (the frame does not have added insulation).
• The 4000 Series FRAME has an Optional/Upgrade For Foam-Filled/Insulated Frame.

• The 4000 Series Has Double-Pane Glass.  
• Duralite® Warm-Edge Spacer System — separates the glass panes and helps insulate along the edges.

• U-Value of an UNinsulated vinyl frame = .50
• U-Value of an Insulated vinyl frame = .33  
• A window’s frame represents only about 20% of the window’s total surface.

TIP: A Vinyl window frame is a good insulator — with or without foam insulation added.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Triple-Glazed Window Glass (glass brand unknown)

The 6000 Series Offers 6 Double-Pane Glass PLUS 3 Triple-Pane Glass Choices.

• The 6000 Series Frame Is Slightly Thicker Than The 4000 Series Frame PLUS The Upgrades Just Below.
• The 6000 Series Includes (Foam-Insulation Filled) Frame.
• The 6000 Series Offers 3 Triple-Pane Glass Options.

—————

• The 8000 Series Includes Are Hurricane-Impact Rated.
• Impact-Resistant Windows are required by Building Code along nearly all of the eastern U.S. Coastline.

• The 8000 Series Includes Metal-Reinforcement Inside The Vinyl Window Frame.
• The 8000 Series Includes Impact-Resistant (laminated) Glass.

TIP: Window World also offers Hurricane-Impact Rated, Fiberglass Entry Doors.

To Compare Window World’s Different Windows Series, Click Below:

Comparison Of Window World’s Different Window Models/Series.

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser: https://www.windowworldspacecoast.com/windows/double-hung/

Windows Performance In The Northern U.S.

Image Source: Shutterstock

In The Northern U.S.

• U-Value of a Window World 4000 Series (uninsulated) Vinyl Frame = .50
• U-Value of an Insulated Vinyl Frame = .33  
• A window’s frame represents only about 20% of the window’s total surface.
• A Vinyl window frame is a good insulator — with, or without added insulation.

TIP: The 6000 Series Windows’ benefit sometimes does not justify the increased price.

• Glass Upgrades may not improve a window’s U-Factor — enough to justify the upgrade’s cost.
• Window World’s 4000 series with (included/standard glass).  SHGC: 31 U-Factor: 29 
• Window World’s 4000 series with top-upgrade glass  SHGC: 27 U-Factor: 21 

• Window World’s 6000 series with top-upgrade glass  SHGC:18  U-Factor: 23

TIP: In Northern Climates.  SAVE $ By Choosing:

Window World’s 4000 Series — With The Standard/Included Glass: SHGC: 31 U-Factor: 29 

AND Upgrade The Glass for only North-Facing windows: SHGC: 27  U-Factor: 21 

—————

Click Just Below To View Window World’s Included & Optional Glass Options

Window World Glass Options

If Link Doesn’t Work, Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

https://www.windowworldalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ww-central-alabama-ww-solarzone.pdf

Window World Glass Options Source: https://www.windowworldalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ww-central-alabama-ww-solarzone.pdf

Sources:

• Window Frame U-Value https://www.thurstontalk.com/2013/03/28/replacement-windows-olympia/
• 4000 & 6000 Series  Windows: https://windowworldjoliet.com/windows/double-hung/
• Glass Options: https://www.windowworldalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ww-central-alabama-ww-solarzone.pdf

Windows Performance In The Southern U.S.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Window World 4000 Series Double-Pane, Low-E Glass Choices

TIP: Tinting Can Be Added To Any Window World Glass.  Tinted Glass Has A Slightly Green Color Outdoors.

• SolarZone: Double-Pane Glass.   
• U-Factor= .29 // SHGC= .30 
• This Glass Is Included With 4000 Series.

• One side of the glass has a Low-E Coating.
• Glass Panes are separated by the Standard-Width Metal Spacer — between the glass panes.
• A spacer helps insulate the edges of the glass — and reduces heat transfer along the edges.
• This glass has Argon Gas Between the panes.

• SolarZone Plus Elite: Has A Stainless-Steel Spacer Between The Glass Panes.
• U-Factor= .27 // SHGC=.21 
• This Glass Is The Top Upgrade Glass For The 4000 Series.
• This glass has Argon Gas Between the panes.

TIP: The 4000 Series Top Upgrade Glass (SolarZone Plus Elite) U-Factor= .27 // SHGC=.21 offers notably better performance at blocking the sun’s heat than the (included) SolarZone glass U-Factor= .29 // SHGC= .30.  The improvement in U-Factor is negligible. 

TIP In Southern Climates. SAVE $ By Choosing:

Window World’s 4000 Series With The Standard/Included Glass

AND Add Tinting And/Or Upgrade The Glass for West-Facing windows.

—————

TIP: In Northern Climates.  SAVE $ By Choosing:

Window World’s 4000 Series — With The Standard/Included Glass: SHGC: 31 U-Factor: 29 

AND Upgrade The Glass for North-Facing windows: SHGC: 27 U-Factor: 21 

Click Below To Learn More About Window World’s 4000 Series Windows

Window World 4000 Series Windows Description

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser: https://www.windowworldorlando.com/windows/double-hung/

Click Just Below To View Window World’s Included & Optional Glass Options

Window World Glass Options

If Link Doesn’t Work, Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

https://www.windowworldalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ww-central-alabama-ww-solarzone.pdf

Window World Glass Options Source: https://www.windowworldalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ww-central-alabama-ww-solarzone.pdf

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Click Below To Learn More About Window World’s 6000 Series Windows:

Window World 6000 Series Windows

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

https://www.windowworldmn.com/windows/double-hung-windows/6000-series-double-hung

— End Of Window World (brand) Replacement Windows Section —

To Skip This Section About Noise-Control With Upgraded Windows

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

Can Replacement Windows Help Reduce Outdoor Noise Being Heard Inside The Home?   

Not By Much And Not Worth The Cost — For Only Outdoor Noise Control.

TIP: Increased Attic Insulation Is Much Less Expensive AND Much More Effective At Reducing Exterior Noise Entering The Home.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Image Source: Shutterstock

Image Source: Shutterstock

Noise-Level For Common Sources Of Outdoor Noise

Noise Reduction — As Perceived By Our Ears & Hearing.

•   – 3 STC change — is perceptible to our ears
•   – 5 STC change is perceived by our ears as 3/4 as loud.
• -10 STC change is perceived by our ears as 1/2 as loud.

• 45 dB US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Recommendation For Maximum Indoor Noise Level.
• 70 dB is the maximum daily noise-level exposure to prevent hearing loss.

The EPA says these levels of noise levels permit normal-volume conversation plus activities such as; sleeping, working, and recreation.

• 60 dB Normal Conversation.

Busy Street Or Nearby Highway Noise Levels

• 75 dB Typical Street-Level Noise.
• 75 db 4-Lane Highway — from 50 feet away.

Sources:

• https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-015-0006-y
• https://www.aviationfile.com/noise-pollution-levels-by-aircraft-types/

Air-Traffic Noise Levels

Image Source: Shutterstock

• 91 db Airbus A350 (Brand & Model) Jet In Flight Overhead.
• 92 dB Boeing 737 Max Jet In Flight Overhead.

Sources:

• EPA: National Institute Of Health   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3531357/
• https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-015-0006-y

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Noise-Reduction (in decibels) Of Common Home Building Materials 

• STC-35: 4″ Exterior Wall
• STC-45: 4″ Exterior wall covered with brick.

Brick dB Source: http://www.buildwithblock.com/knowledge-base/what-is-the-stc-rating-for-brick#:

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Indoor Noise Reduction Of Various Types Of Window Glass

• STC-27: 1/8″ Single-Pane Glass.

• STC-27: Double-Pane, Low-E Glass.
• STC-34: Double-Pane, Low-E Glass with 2 different glass thicknesses (such as 1/4″ glass outside + 1/8″ glass inside).
• STC-35: Double-Pane, Low-E, Impact-Resistant Glass (outer glass is laminated).
• Impact-Resistant Glass Has; a single glass pane + a plastic membrane + a 2nd single glass pane — all within a single unit.

• STC-29: Triple-Pane Glass
• Because triple-pane windows have smaller air gaps between the glass panes (than double-pane glass) — testing shows that triple-pane windows offer only minimally higher STC ratings.
• STC-38: Triple-Pane, Low-E, Impact-Resistant Glass (outer glass is laminated).

—————

The More Airtight A Window Is — The Better It Reduces Sound.

• Sliding windows (side-to-side) are the least airtight.
• Sliding windows (up/down) are the 2nd least airtight.

• Casement windows are more airtight than sliding windows.
• Casement windows crank closed against a rubber seal around all 4 sides — like a refrigerator door.
• They are the most airtight operating window.

• Fixed (non-operating) windows are the most airtight.
• Example: A sliding-glass door has 1 fixed + 1 sliding panel.

Source: https://www.jeld-wen.com/en-us/discover/reference/acoustic_performance_in_windows

TIP: For Noise Control — replacing windows offers limited value.

Most Outdoor Noise Enters A Home — Through The Attic & Then The Ceilings In The Rooms Below.

Attic Insulation’s Ability To Reduce Indoor Noise.

Attics Are Ventilated — So There Are Open Areas Where Outdoor Air Easily Enters & Exits An Attic. 

Air In                                          Air Out                                                       Air In                             Air Out (vent at peak of roof under shingles)

Older DFW Homes Attic Ventilation                                                      Newer DFW Homes Attic Ventilation

Because Outdoor Noise Easily Enters Attics — the noise inside the attic is loud.  The noise is much louder under air-traffic or near busy roads.

Noise-Reduction Of Blown Fiberglass Attic Insulation 

• STC-10.5 db Per 1″ Inch Of Blown Fiberglass Or Batt Fiberglass Insulation.
• STC-107dB  10.25″ / R-30 Blown Fiberglass Insulation In An Attic.
• STC-173dB  16.5″  /  R-50  Blown Fiberglass Insulation In An Attic

TIP: Increasing Attic Insulation — Is The Least Expensive And Most Effective Way To Reduce Indoor Noise.

Noise Enters Homes Through Air Leaks

Older DFW Homes Leak Lots Of Air.  Anywhere Air Enters — Noise Easily Enters Too. 

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Winter Thermal-Image Of An Exterior Door.  Purple Color Indicates Outdoor Air Leaking Along The Door’s Edges.

Where Homes Leak The Most Air:

• 31% Where Ceilings & Floors Meet — on exterior walls.
• 14% If the Fireplace Damper is left open (when wood-burning fireplace not in use) OR Damper can’t close properly.

Click Here To See A Fireplace Damper That Can’t Close Properly: Fireplace Damper Doesn’t Close

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

https://www.google.com/search?q=broken+fireplace+damper&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjK8PKmjJuAAxVyI0QIHZzOBckQ0pQJegQIERAB&biw=1097&bih=535&dpr=1.75#imgrc=vYvuCUYZF6gDMM

TIP: Look up at your Fireplace Damper when closed.  If you see gaps or daylight — the damper needs to be repaired or replaced.

—————

 Due To Carbon Monoxide Risk — Gas Fireplaces Don’t Have Dampers

With A Closed Fireplace Damper — while a gas fireplace is running, Carbon Monoxide enters the living space.

Most Gas Fireplaces Have Pilot Lights.  With A Closed Fireplace Damper — The Pilot Light’s Carbon Monoxide enters the living space.

Here’s A Way To Close Off A Gas Fireplace (Gas To Fireplace Must Be Turned Off)

TIP: These Come In Assorted Sizes To Match The Front Of Your Fireplace.

TIP: Heat Travels Toward Cold Year-Round.  Heat Will Come Down A Fireplace Flue During Summer.

Shown: Fireplace Front Blanket

Image Source: Amazon.com

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com Shown: Fireplace Front Blanket

Image Source: Amazon.com

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

How Much The Locations Below Contribute To Total Air Leakage: 

• 13% Where plumbing pipes come through exterior & interior walls.

• 11% Exterior doors
• 10% Windows
•  4%  Bath & Kitchen Vents
•  2%  Electrical Outlets & Light Switches

TIP: In An Pre-2010 DFW Home — Sealing Air Leaks Is The 2nd Most Effective Way To Reduce Cooling/Heating Costs.

— End Of: “Can Windows Help With Noise-Reduction” Section. —

To Skip This Section — Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

Insulating Ability Of Exterior Doors To Lower Cooling Costs

Image Souce: Shutterstock

Insulating Ability Of Exterior Doors

• DFW homes built since 2010 (and some perhaps earlier) — typically have an insulated Metal door on the front.   R-Value = 5-6.
• Some homes have an insulated Fiberglass door.  R-Value = 5-6.  

• DFW homes built before 2010 — typically have a solid wood exterior door on the front.  R-Value = 3.
• More expensive newer DFW homes often have a wood exterior door on the front.

Storm Door

Image Source: Shutterstock

Adding a storm door ($250 to 350+) — is generally a good investment if your existing door is wood.  With the primary benefit is protecting a wood door from the weather.  A storm door may also reduce outdoor noise entering the home.

• Storm doors add R-1 to R-2 — so a storm door, by itself, offers little additional insulating ability.

A Storm Door’s Energy-Saving Benefit Increases If

Image Source: Shutterstock

In The Southern U.S. — For Any Entry Door Facing West.

• For The Added Energy-Saving Benefit — The storm door must have Low-E Glass.
• Low-E Glass reduces the amount of the sun’s radiant-heat that causes west-facing entry doors to get hotter. 
• Without Low-E glass, if the sun’s shining on the storm door — the air between the storm door & entry door — becomes hotter than without a storm door.

TIP: Low-E Glass Increases A Storm Door’s Insulating By Up To +25% (+ R-1.25 or R-2.50 — Versus Regular Glass).

—————

Image Source: Shutterstock

In The Northern U.S. — For Any Entry Door Facing North. 

Adding a storm door With Low-E Glass provides additional insulating value that reduces heat loss from the entry door.

“Wind-Chill” is a well-known issue in the northern U.S.   Wind-Chill affects only heated objects.  Adding a storm door helps block cold north winds from blowing directly on an entry door.  Additionally, a storm door creates an air-space between it and the exterior door.  Adding Low-E Glass will further enhance a storm door’s effectiveness.   A storm door may also reduce outdoor noise entering the home.

TIP: Low-E Glass Increases A Storm Door’s Insulating By Up To +25% — To R-1.25 or R-2.50 (Versus Regular Glass).

NOTE: Actual savings is determined by the amount of glass.  A Full-View Storm Door has the most glass.

Source: https://www.larsondoors.com/meet-us/about-larson/our-history/low-e-glass-option-added-for-energy-savings

— End Of Entry Door & Storm Door Section —

To Skip This Section About Impact-Resistant Windows

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

How To Help Protect Your Home From Wind-Damage

Caused By Hurricanes & Tornados

Image Source: Shutterstock

Image Source: Shutterstock

Why A Home’s Roof Rips Off During Tornados & Hurricanes

TIP: Tornados & Hurricanes — Both Have A Strong Updraft Near Their Center.

The Updraft Is A Very Stron Upward-Vacuum That Pulls Roofs Off Homes. 

With the roof gone, the walls have no horizontal support and fall.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Another Way The Roof Becomes Damaged — Is When Strong Winds Get Inside The Home.

This Is Typically Due To A Broken Window Glass And/Or an Entry Door or Garage Door Being Blown Open.

This YouTube Video Shows Tornado Ripping A Home’s Roof Off.

(At Time: 3:45 / 10:13)

Image Source: YouTube Embedded Video Link

Shown: Home’s Roof Being Torn Off The House During A Tornado — At Time: 3:45 / 10:14.

(House is at the right side of the metal building.)

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This YouTube Video Below Shows A Hurricane Ripping A Home’s Roof Off.

Image Source: YouTube Embedded Video Link

Shown: Home’s Roof Being Torn Off The House During A Hurricane.

Impact-Resistant Windows Are Required In Most (if not all) Hurricane-Prone Areas (Including Coastal Texas). 

TIP: Window World’s 8000 Series Are Impact-Resistant. 

Window World 8000 Series

• Includes Impact-Resistant Glass.
• The frame is Reinforced With Metal.
• Coastal Building Code compliant.

Click Here To Learn More About 8000 Series Windows: Window World 8000 Series Impact-Resistant Windows

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser: https://www.windowworldtx.com/products/windows/hurricane-impact/

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Image Source: Shutterstock

TIP: In Tornado-Prone Areas — The 8000 Series May Be Worth The Upgrade’s Cost.

Additional WindStorm-Resistant Building Products

Hurricane-Resistant & WindStorm Resistant are terms applied to Building Products that are designed to enhance a home’s ability to resist damage from high winds.  If you live in Tornado Alley or Dixie Alley — your home is at a notably higher risk of damage or destruction from Tornados.

“Tornado Alley”: Typically identified as including parts of; Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Ohio.   Some definitions also include; Minnesota, Wisconsin, Montana & eastern parts of Colorado.

“Dixie Alley”: Typically identified as including parts of; Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina,

Image Source: Pixabay.com

TIP: In Tornado-Prone Areas (like Texas) — Hurricane-Rated; Windows, Entry & Garage Doors,

AND Hurricane Straps & Ties (details below) — Provide Substantially More Protection From Wind-Damage

While it may seem odd to discuss Hurricane-Rated Building Products on a website originating from Dallas, TX — The Northern Third Of Texas (includes DFW) — Is Within The Highest Tornado-Risk Category (details below).  Tornados & Hurricanes cause similar catastrophic damage to homes.   Additionally, hurricanes hit the Texas coastline.  In Aug 2017, Hurricane Harvey causes catastrophic damage in the Houston, TX area.

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To See A U.S. Wind Zones Map — Copy This Below Into A Google Search

Wind Zone Map National Institute of Standards and Technology

Then Click On Wind Zones Map

The National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Wind Zone Map depicts the Frequency & Strength Of Extreme Windstorms.  Areas within Zone IV (red) — are at the highest risk of extreme windstorms.  And, any individual windstorm can reach wind speeds as high as 250 mph.  Parts of all of 18 States are within Zone IV.

Northeastern Texas Is Within — Zone IV (red) Highest Risk

Their Website Says: “Wind speeds in Zone IV (red), where the risk of extreme windstorms is greatest, can be as high as 250 miles per hour.”

Image Source: Shutterstock

Tornadoes Are Rated By: Having Produced A 3-Second Wind-Gust Speed Of:

• EF0: 65-85 mph
• EF1: 86-110 mph
• EF2: 111-135 mph
• EF3: 136-165 mph
• EF4: 166-200 mph
• EF5: 201+ mph

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Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Hurricane Image With Colors Reflecting Intensity

Hurricanes Are Rated As:

• Category 1: 74-95 mph
• Category 2: 96-110 mph
• Category 3: 111-129 mph
• Category 4: 130-156 mph
• Category 5: 157+ mph

An EF-5 (201+ mph) Tornado Produces Notably More Wind Than A Category-5 (157+mph) Hurricane.

To Skip This Section About Joplin, MO’s New Building Codes — After The Devasting 2011 Tornado.

Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines.

After The 2011 EF-5 Tornado Struck Joplin, Missouri

Hurricane Straps & Ties Are Now Required By Building Codes.

This YouTube Video Shows The EF-5 Tornado That Struck Joplin, MO On May 22, 2011

Image Source: YouTube Embedded Video Link

In Joplin, MO In May 2011 — An EF-5 Tornado, With Winds At 200+ MPH, Caused 161 Deaths + 1,300 Injuries.

It Damaged or Destroyed 7,400+ Homes And 550+ Non-Residential Buildings — Valued At $2.8 Billion.

  The 2011 Joplin Tornado Remains The Most Costly On Record (as of June 2023).

Jasper County, MO, (Where Much Of Joplin Is Located) — has only 15% of homes with basements.

Tornado New Source: https://stormaware.mo.gov/joplin-tornado/#:~:text=

Building Codes Upgrades Source: https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/council-endorses-building-code-changes/article_5b2dfb1f-f034-5835-a4ac-c6d470f02784.html

After The July 2011 Tornado, Joplin’s Building Codes Were Upgraded For More WindStorm Resistance.

Soon after the 2011 EF-5 Tornado, the Joplin City Council upgraded residential building codes to include:

1. Securing the Roof to Exterior walls.

2. Improvements to the existing Building Code for Securing Exterior Walls to the Foundation.

Shown: Hurricane Strap (also known as: “Hurricane Clip”) — Secures The Roof  TO Walls

Image Source: Amazon.com Link

TIP: Click Here To A Hurricane Strap (many styles are sold) Installed (2nd photo): Hurricane Strap Installed

(If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser): https://www.pipsisland.com/how-to-install-hurricane-straps-with-an-existing-roof/

TIP: Adding Hurricane Straps Increase A Home’s Ability To Withstand The Very High Winds Generated By Hurricanes & Tornados. With these straps, the home is notably less likely to lose its roof.

TIP: Hurricane Straps Can Be Added To Existing Homes Too.

-AND-

2. Joplin, MO Required Exterior Wall Bolts Spacing Reduced — From 6′ To 4″

To Align With The Metal (Rebar) Reinforcements (Inside A Home’s Slab Foundation).

Wall Bolts Secure Exterior Walls To The Foundation.

Image Source: Amazon.com

Shown: 1 Of Many Versions Of Foundation Bolts

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Due To The Cost — Joplin’s Building Codes Don’t Require A “Safe-Room” In Homes Without Basements 

Crystal Harrington, executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Southwest Missouri, said it could cost $4,000 to make a pantry or closet in a home into a safe room.  “Mandating it is a big step because of the cost,” she told the council.   Joplin didn’t require storm shelters but gave a consensus of approval to adopt formal ordinances on some building code changes.

Source: https://www.joplinglobe.com/news/local_news/council-endorses-building-code-changes/article_5b2dfb1f-f034-5835-a4ac-c6d470f02784.html

— End Of Joplin, MO 2011 Tornado & New Building Codes Resulting From It. —

Image Source: Shutterstock

(The Specifications Of The Windows Shown Are Unknown)

Hurricane-Rated / Impact-Resistant Windows Help Protect Your Home 

From Wind-Damage Caused By Hurricanes & Tornados.

Hurricane Windows & Impact-Resistant Windows are quite similar — as both protect from flying debris and wind.  Both have laminated glass panes (details just below).  The frames are made of; metal, vinyl, or wood.  Hurricane Windows are built to meet specific building codes & local requirements for High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ).

These windows can also be built to meet Texas Wind Storm Insurance Association (TWIA) Requirements — for Texas coastal homeowners who must get Wind & Hail Insurance through TWIA — because they don’t qualify for regular Homeowners Insurance.

1. TWIA insurance is only available for homes that can’t be insured with typical Home Owners Insurance.

2. For the property to be eligible for TWIA coverage — a TWIA Windstorm Certificate of Compliance is required.

Details At: www.twia.org/windstorm-certification/

Hurricane-Rated, Impact-Resistant Windows

Have Tempered + Laminated Glass 

Tempered Glass — Breaks Into Small Cubes When Broken.

Laminated Glass — Has A Layer Of Vinyl Between The Glass Panes

To Skip This Section — Scroll Down To The Next Double Lines

When Damaged, Laminated Glass Typically Does Not Allow A Hole To Form.  This prevents water & wind intrusion into the home.

TIP: Texas Requires Hurricane-Rated Products In 14 Coastal Counties (details later in this article).

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Broken Laminated Glass.  Laminated Glass Breaks Into Cubes — Which Mostly Stay In Place.

• Laminated glass starts out as 2 pieces of tempered glass.
• Then a layer of vinyl is added between the 2 glass layers.

• If broken, laminated-glass stays (mostly to completely) together.
• The cubes of broken glass stick to the vinyl and mostly don’t typically fall.

• Hurricane-Rated Glass’ laminate layer is strong enough to reduce or prevent the laminating window-film from tearing due to high winds or airborne-debris damage.

Hurricane-Rated Outward-Swing Entry Doors

Image Source: Amazon.com

TIP: If You Can See The Hinges From Outdoors — It’s An Outward-Swing Door

• Outward swing doors are required in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) — these areas are along coastlines.
• Outward swing prevents doors from blowing inward (like an inward-swing door can) during high winds.

https://www.doornmore.com/more-ways-to-shop/hurricane-rated/door-shield-impact-shutter.html

Click Here To See An Outward Swing Door Installed: Outward Swing Entry Door Installed

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

https://www.google.com/search?q=outswing+hurricane+exterior+door+installed&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwi1t8zCyJiAAxVpLd4AHbxNC1QQ2-cCegQIABAA&oq=outswing+hurricane+exterior+door+installed&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQA1CABFiABGDfCWgAcAB4AIABpAGIAeYBkgEDMS4xmAEAoAEBqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWfAAQE&sclient=img&ei=Ca-2ZPUO6dr4tg-8m62gBQ&bih=535&biw=1097#imgrc=wKrJyueGeA2X6M

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• Wherever possible, an HVHZ door’s latch side — is often aligned with a perpendicular interior wall.
• The perpendicular wall provides increased support — as compared to a parallel wall.

Click Below To See A HVHZ Entry Door With Latch Aligned With An Interior Perpendicular Wall:

HVHZ Door Latch Aligned With Interior Perpendicular Door

If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Below Into Your Browser:

High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) Doors Are Rated For:

• Wind-Borne Debris (WBD) of 140+ mph. They must be tested & certified that they provide this level of protection.
• These doors withstand airborne objects flying at 140+ mph.
• A Water Infiltration test is also performed.
• HVHZ doors are required along nearly all of the Gulf Of Mexico coastline — PLUS Georgia, North, and South Carolina.
• Check the source below for a graphical image.

In Texas: All Door and Window products, sold in 14 Designated County Coastal Catastrophe Areas (list below), must be hurricane impact tested, certified, and labeled.

Texas’ 14 Coastal Catastrophe Counties Are; Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio & Willacy.

Source: https://www.kin.com/glossary/designated-catastrophe-area/

TIP: How To Reinforce An Existing Inward-Swing Entry Door

TIP: Reinforcing Inward-Swing Exterior Doors — To Withstand High Winds Better

This Also Makes Them Much More Resistant In The Event Of A Home Invasion. 

This Common Strike-Plate Allows The Door Knob’s Latch To Move Slightly Into The Door’s Trim.

Image Source: Amazon.com

Shown: Door Knob Strike Plate

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

TIP: The Screws For Strike Plates Are Very Short.  They Screw Only Into The Frame Around The Door.

Then, The Frame Is Secured To Lumber Inside The Walls.

Buy Longer Screws — To Secure The Strike-Plate (beyond the door’s trim) Into The Lumber Inside The Walls.

NOTE: This Website’s Author Does This — And These Screws Stopped A Home Invasion.

This Photo Shows The Lumber (inside walls) — Where A Door Will Be (to the right of the windows).

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Framed Doorway In Home Under Construction

Image Source: Amazon.com

Shown: Wood Deck Screws

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

TIP: It Takes A Powerful Drill To Drive Screws This Long.  A Common Household Drill Isn’t Strong Enough.

For Even More Reinforcement

This Strike Plate Secures Both The Door Knob And The Deadbolt

 NINE Screws Secure This Stike-Plate.  Standard Strike-Plates Have Only 2 Screws. 

Image Source: Amazon.com

Shown: Double Strike Plate

Click On Image To; View Product, Read Details, or Purchase From Amazon.com

TIP: This Is An Excellent Upgrade For Existing, Inward-Swing Doors — Especially In Coastal Locations.

Hurricane-Rated Garage Door

Image Source: Pixabay.com

Shown: A New Home With Living Space Above The Garage

On a much larger scale than an Entry Door — if a hurricane or tornado blows the garage door in — an immediate air pressure-differential occurs.  If there is a separate roof on the garage — that roof will likely be ripped off.  If there is living space above the garage (which is common in Texas) — the damage becomes much worse.

The most basic home garage door has a single sheet of metal plus with only enough metal reinforcement, on the rear side, to allow the door to be opened and closed.

Click Here To See A Back Side View Of A Basic Garage Door: Rear View Of A Basic Home Garage Door

(If Link Doesn’t Work —Copy Below This Into Your Browser)

https://www.google.com/search? sa=X&hl=en&q=inside+view+of+uninsulated+garage+door&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=FoylIyLQgWIRHM%252CbncZsHGsb9ZovM%252C_%253B-geD16R4D0TT7M%252CK7k88dj6KjTkhM%252C_%253B5EUa2pCFRk4pVM%252C86-OUycIHyFE1M%252C_%253BHSdigV8yqyuKvM%252CGn7hYEJSbsvWhM%252C_%253BgIEY-VQyCkDHCM%252Cw1FJ4RsjV8rHWM%252C_%253BcWqAxYi1AY95lM%252CK7k88dj6KjTkhM%252C_%253B4BhUTHGnMc31PM%252C75jSbZ3ry5lqhM%252C_%253BcFJn245_UO7IGM%252CbncZsHGsb9ZovM%252C_%253BcKlk2KRo0lljQM%252CK7k88dj6KjTkhM%252C_%253B6uNSpZmN4kPCiM%252CjsdmPXqJ9ttlqM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kS7hDH6cOAJUcoPNtlnLYmzs7UIsg&ved=2ahUKEwjyteudspaAAxW7mGoFHUr6AqMQ7Al6BAgYEFo&biw=1097&bih=535&dpr=1.75#imgrc=-geD16R4D0TT7M

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Hurricane-Rated Garage Doors have considerable additional metal bracing on the interior side.  This bracing makes the garage door rigid enough to withstand winds of up to 140/150/160 MPH.  TIP: The actual MPH required — is determined by the local building code where the home is located.

Click To See A Back Side View Of A (uninsulated) Hurricane-Rated Garage Door: Hurricane-Rated Garage Door

(If Link Doesn’t Work —Copy Below This Into Your Browser)

https://www.google.com/search?q=hurricane+garage+door&sxsrf=APwXEdd-6C-vVpfW9FELGv4fe4XqND77BA:1683648616647&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwif3uLtz-j-AhUNmmoFHcyrCRsQ0pQJegQIBxAE&biw=960&bih=468&dpr=2#imgrc=KSzViwCTdjCLBM

How To Make A Home’s Structure More Wind-Damage Resistant

Texas Building Codes For Hurricane Straps & Ties — In Hurricane-Prone (coastal) Area

Texas has had 47 landfalling hurricanes since 1900.  And, any given 50-mile stretch of Texas coastline, will experience a hurricane every 6 years on average.  Approximately 1/3 of Texas’ population lives in coastal areas

• In Texas: All Door and Window products, sold in 14 designated county coastal catastrophe areas (list below), must be hurricane impact tested, certified, and labeled.

• Texas’ 14 Coastal Catastrophe Counties; Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio & Willacy.

Source: https://www.kin.com/glossary/designated-catastrophe-area/

In Certain Areas of the U.S.  — New homes must include “Hurricane Straps” (shown in the 2nd photo below) — which help secure the roof to the exterior walls.  This makes it more difficult for the roof to be torn off.

The lower side of the hurricane clip is attached to the framing (the boards) within the exterior walls.  The upper side is attached to the attic     Roof-Truss (a truss is “A-Shaped” – see photo just below).

Image Source: Shutterstock

Shown: Attic Trusses.  Trusses are horizontal at the bottom and angled on each side of the top.

(Note: the metal reinforcements shown above are not related to hurricane protection.)

Common Types Of Hurricane Straps & Ties 

• Roof Strap: Helps secure a home’s Roof  TO the Exterior Walls (one shown below)
• Wall Tie: Helps secure a home’s Walls TO the Foundation.
• Anchor Tie: Helps secure a home’s Foundation TO the Ground.

TIP: Hurricane Roof Straps — Are An Equally Valuable Addition To Homes In Tornado-Prone Areas.

Shown: Hurricane Roof Strap (also known as: “Hurricane Clip”) — Secures Roof  TO Walls

Image Source: Amazon.com Link

TIP: Click Here To See The Strap Above Installed (2nd photo): Hurricane Strap Installed

(If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser): https://www.pipsisland.com/how-to-install-hurricane-straps-with-an-existing-roof/

Click Here To See A Hurricane Wall Tie (Secures Exterior Walls TO The Foundation)

Top Photo: Hurricane Wall Tie (connects walls to the foundation) Top Photo

(If Link Doesn’t Work — Copy This Into Your Browser): https://www.attainablehome.com/how-to-attach-hurricane-straps-foundation)

Click Here To See A Hurricane Anchor Tie Diagram (Secures Foundation TO the Ground):

Hurricane Anchor Tie For Home (not for a mobile home)

(If Link Doesn’t Work —Copy This Into Your Browser:) https://quicktieproducts.com/wood-quickties/

TIP: There Are Also Hurricane Anchor Ties For Mobile Homes:  https://underhomearmor.com/hurricane-anchors/

(If Link Doesn’t Work —Copy This Into Your Browser:) https://underhomearmor.com/hurricane-anchors/

— End Of Hurricane-Rated Building Products Section —

©

Al’s Plumbing, in Plano, Texas Provides Full-Service Plumbing; Maintenance, Repairs, and Replacements For Every Plumbing Component In Your Home. We sell and install gas and electric water heaters.  Al’s is near your home in; northeast Dallas TX, Garland, TX and Richardson, Texas.  We service all homes in southern Collin County, TX, and northeastern Dallas County, TX with no additional travel charges.

Call Al’s Today To Discuss Any Concerns Or Problems You Have With Your Home’s Plumbing. 

We will arrange an appointment at your convenience.

This was Part 5 (Windows & Exterior Doors) of our Multi-Part Article Describing

75+ Ways to Lower Cooling Costs Without Upgrading Your HVAC System (and many also lower heating costs).