What Are Energy Efficient Windows?

Sustainability and energy efficiency are important parts of modern products, including your home. If your windows are getting old and need replacement, now is the perfect time to replace them with energy-efficient windows. The facts about energy efficient windows show that they keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, and they can help reduce your energy expenses. In addition to being drafty older windows allow more outside air into your home, affecting the overall temperature.

Finding the Right Windows

With so many options, it can be a challenge to know what types of windows are energy efficient. When looking for the most efficient windows, consider the following design traits.

• The Material: What the window frame is made of affects overall efficiency. Metal frames conduct heat at a higher rate than other options making them not the most effective choice for insulation. However, if you do use metal windows, a thermal break can help. Wood frames offer an efficient design but do require regular upkeep. Composite frames improve on wood by offering a sturdier, more damage-resistant material. Vinyl and fiberglass frames are highly resistant to the sun and other elements, plus the ability to add extra insulation makes both highly efficient choices for your home.
• Glazing: The coating on your windows and the number of panes affects how it responds to the elements, and there are several options available. Insulated glass uses multiple planes with sealed airspace in the middle to increase insulation. Low-emissivity (low-e) coatings help with heat transfer and can reduce the impact direct sunlight has on the temperature in your home.
• Gases: The multiple plane design allows the space between window planes to be filled with elements other than air. Argon is commonly used as it is harmless and highly effective at reducing heat transfer. Modern design and spacers allow your windows to respond to the elements as needed without damage or leaks.
• The Design: Luckily, modern energy efficient windows come in all shapes and sizes to fit your home’s style and overall appearance. Standard window designs such as sliding windows, casement, hoppers, and others are available. There are also many colors and nice-looking designs to choose from when updating your windows. Efficient doesn’t have to mean bland.

Final Thoughts

Energy inefficacy can cost you hundreds of dollars every year in heating and cooling costs, and often the causes are easy to miss. A drafty door or a window that doesn’t close right can let cold air in all winter and hot air in all summer, keeping your HVAC running far longer than it needs to. Replacing old windows makes your home look better and saves you money.

Categorised in: Window Replacement