Maryland has a ton of variation in its climate throughout the year, with hot, humid summers and cold winters, so it’s important to pick the right windows and outdoor lighting. You need to pick outdoor lights and windows that are stylish, sure, but they also need functionality. When you choose window upgrades and outdoor lighting revamps that you like, you improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and curb appeal. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most current and trendy options for windows and outdoor lighting that are perfect for Maryland’s unique climate.
Understanding Maryland’s Climate
Maryland’s weather can be quite unpredictable, with huge variation throughout the year. The sweltering summers and chilly winters cause a need for homeowners to invest in windows and outdoor lighting that can withstand these diverse weather patterns. This is because windows have a huge role in maintaining your home’s temperature by keeping air in, so it stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. On the other hand, your outdoor lighting needs to be durable enough to resist humidity, rain, and occasional storms.
Best Windows for Maryland’s Climate
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are affordable, low maintenance, and resist moisture pretty well, so they’re a great choice for window installations in Maryland. They also insulate really well, so they can handle Maryland’s humid summers and cold winters.
Fiberglass or Composite Windows
If you’re looking for durability without giving up aesthetics, fiberglass or composite windows are a great option. Fiberglass is a very strong material and combining that strength with wood’s attractive aesthetics allows them to look great while resisting Maryland’s weather extremes. These windows are energy-efficient and require very little maintenance, so they’re a long-lasting investment for your home.
Double-Hung and Casement Windows
Double-hung windows are incredibly versatile and easy to clean, which is great if you’re a busy homeowner, like many of us. They provide great ventilation and can adapt to almost any home style. On the other hand, casement windows have a tighter seal that does a better job of keeping the wind and rain out, so they’re great for the weather conditions in Maryland. Of course, they also provide the ventilation you need out of your windows.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Choosing energy-efficient windows for Maryland homes residents that want to reduce their energy bills and improve home comfort. Here are some key features to keep an eye out for:
Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass reduces heat transfer, which keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The temperature can swing pretty hard between seasons in Maryland, so this one is worth looking into.
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs)
Two or more panes of glass with a space between them and an inert gas like argon in that space make up insulated glass units (IGUs). They provide some serious insulation, reducing the strain on your home’s heating and cooling systems, thereby saving you money on the related energy bills.
Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Maryland Homes
Outdoor lighting does a lot more than just light up your exterior. It also improves your home’s exterior aesthetics while boosting home security. Here are some ideas that will work well in Maryland’s climate:
Weather-Resistant Fixtures
It gets pretty humid and occasionally stormy in Maryland, so any outdoor lighting fixtures you choose need to be able to withstand them and other elements. Choose fixtures made of durable materials, like stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum, both of which make them some of the best outdoor lighting for humid climate.
LED Lighting
LED lights are great for outdoor spaces because they’re energy-efficient and last a long time. They’ve been around for a while, so there’s a huge variety available that provides consistent light and comes in numerous colors and styles. Cold weather won’t faze them, so they’ll work well in Maryland.
Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting systems are gaining more and more popularity due to their convenience and energy-saving benefits. With these systems, you can control your outdoor lights remotely with a smartphone app, and they tend to have extra features like timers, dimmers, and motion sensors.
The Importance of Professional Installation
You might be tempted to install new windows or outdoor lighting systems yourself, but these projects tend to be quite complex. When you have a professional perform your outdoor lighting or window installations in Maryland, they make sure windows are correctly sealed and fitted, and that outdoor lighting has proper wiring and placement. Both of these aspects go a long way toward getting the most energy efficiency, moisture prevention, safety, and compliance with local codes.
Budgeting and Long-Term Value
Investing in quality windows and outdoor lighting might seem expensive upfront, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the expenses. Energy-efficient windows can significantly lower your heating and cooling costs over time, while durable outdoor lighting fixtures reduce the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, these upgrades can enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase its overall value, making them worthwhile investments.
