With rising energy costs and concern for the environment, it is important to consider choosing energy-efficient windows during your window replacement project. Local installation companies can help you select the right options for your home.
Bow windows create a sweeping curve and open up living spaces to bring in natural light. They also reduce heat loss during winters and retain warmth in summers.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass is a clear coating that selectively allows some wavelengths of solar energy in while reflecting other wavelengths out. This can significantly reduce your cooling and heating costs. The low-e coating does have a slight tint that may impact the appearance of your windows and may result in a blue-green color.
The low-e coating can also reduce the penetration of harmful UV rays into your home. This will prevent your furniture and fabrics from fading over time.
This type of glass is best paired with an insulated frame. Double or triple-pane windows provide better thermal performance than single-pane windows. This is because the space between the panes acts as an additional insulator to further protect against heat loss or gain.
Argon or Krypton Gas Fill
Many new energy-efficient windows have a layer of argon, krypton or sometimes a combination of gases sandwiched between the window panes. This odorless and non-toxic gas slows or blocks the transfer of thermal energy through the window, meaning your heater or air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Argon is a natural, non-toxic, and inert gas found in the atmosphere. This noble gas works well in insulating windows because it does not conduct heat as well as air. As a result, these windows help reduce energy costs by improving the performance of your climate control system and reducing utility bills over time. This gas also prevents the buildup of frost on windows in winter. Often, manufacturers use argon in double pane windows spaced 1/2 inch apart, but it is also used in triple pane windows.
Blue Frames
The frames of your windows play an important role in the functionality and appearance of a home. A trusted window company can help you select a frame that complements your home and provides an aesthetic fit for your project.
Some popular frame materials include aluminum and fiberglass. Both are durable and require low maintenance, but aluminum is less insulated than other materials. Fiberglass is a newer material that offers the durability of steel and the insulating properties of wood.
Double and triple-pane windows offer superior thermal performance, helping your Mandeville home stay comfortable and save on energy bills. The additional panes also filter out UV rays, preventing the fading of furniture and carpeting in your home.
Whether you need window repairs or replacement windows, it’s important to work with trusted and experienced contractors. Find a local window specialist by narrowing your search on Houzz in the Professionals section and browsing photos of completed projects. You can also ask for estimates from several window installers to compare prices and options.
Insulated Frames
A window frame’s job is to protect the other elements of a window, as well as tie it into your home’s walls. However, the frame’s material and thickness play a huge role in energy efficiency. Old industry standard was to simply fix one pane of glass in a frame and leave it at that, which is an extremely low barrier to heat transfer.
Double and triple-pane windows provide a much more substantial energy performance. This is especially true when you opt for a thermally broken window that incorporates a polyamide bar that blocks energy pathways.
Energy efficient windows are a fantastic choice for any Mandeville homeowner looking to cut their utility bills and help reduce carbon emissions. By choosing high-performance options like soft coat Low-E glass and argon or krypton gas fill, you can reap the benefits of an improved comfort level while also adding value to your home. Contact a window installation professional in your area to find out more about their energy-efficient offerings.