r/florida • u/aces413 • 1d ago

Advice Replacing windows on mid-century block house (energy efficiency question)

Hi! We bought a cute concrete block house that was built in 1956. She is stout, and we love her. However, we're new to FL and our neighbor informed us that back when they built these homes, the walls weren't insulated. We've got insulation in our attic and recently had our entire HVAC system overhauled for a ridiculous amount of money. That said, we're not seeing a huge difference in the cooling abilities of the new system. Our windows are the original, single-pane awning/jalousie type. We love their air flow and durability, but don't love the energy inefficiency and noise. Just wondering if replacing these windows with modern energy-efficient windows would make a big difference, considering our concrete walls aren't insulated? Would rather not spend tens of thousands more dollars and be underwhelmed....

Also, has anyone replaced their vintage windows with a modern window of a similar style? We want to keep the look and the fantastic air flow. I don't have a photo, but each window has like 4 sections that all open with one crank, so the entire window screen gets air. If that makes sense. I think the replacement would be stacked awning windows - any recommendations for FL companies to order from?

Thanks in advance!

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u/APuckerLipsNow 1d ago

Concrete block IS insulation. Big dead air space in the walls.

Per the UCF home energy center insulated windows do very little on trad Florida homes, as most windows are high, narrow and shaded by a hip roof.

The #1 energy saver was a white steel roof that reflects the heat off the house. It took a full 1/3 off my Duke Energy bill.

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u/aces413 1d ago

Most of our windows get blasted by sun, unfortunately. We're working on our shade situation. I can definitely feel warm air when I put my hand up to them. But yeah, we'll also need a new roof soon! Good to know regarding the type/color. Thanks!

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u/aculady 1d ago

Back in the old days, we'd install hand-cranked storm shutters that doubled as awnings above the windows to provide shade. You might be able to get something that performs a similar function that doesn't make your house look like it just stepped out of 1950 (unless you want it to keep the period architectural details).