Lutz window expert discusses energy-efficiency

Published on June 1, 2009

Starting your own business can be daunting. But not for a 28-year-old Kirk Morgan who - at the time - worked for others in the window industry. He knew that "if they can do it, I can do it" and so he did, creating Morgan Exteriors Inc.

Now, 14 years later, Morgan says the most enjoyable part of his job is impressing the customers. "When we exceed their expectations to the point that they tell their friends about us," he says. "That's the best."

How can I make my windows more energy efficient?

"You have to buy new ones. There's really no way to make a current single-pane window more efficient. You can do a little bit by adding a tint, but it's still single-pane glass. We offer Simonton windows - it's what I'd recommend. It's double-pane glass with Low-E coating on the inside of the glass.

"We have to battle heat year-round and these windows help keep it out of our homes. For the few colder days of the year when we need to turn on our furnace, the windows help keep the heat in.

"There are a number of advantages to installing these windows. They'll lower your electric bills and they're less drafty. They can block out 99 percent of the ultraviolet rays that fade your furniture, drapes and floors.

"The reduction in noise is huge! When you go from single-pane glass to double pane, people say it's like they've moved. The best way to combat noise is to get double- pane glass.

"People don't realize how much new windows can make a difference and how much money their old windows are costing them in lost energy. Our windows are Energy Star and American Architectural Manufacturers Association certified."