Energy-efficient windows are a must-have for any homeowners who are looking to save their money on expenses and such. Windows that are draughty, outdated and damaged not only affect a home’s structural integrity, but it also negatively impacts their curb appeal and overall aesthetic. That is why it is best to upgrade your windows, especially to ones that are energy-efficient. They bring a ton of benefits to the table and it is rare for a homeowner to be unhappy when they are installed into their home. If you are interested in this type of window and want to learn more about them, here are the 5 main qualities of an excellent energy-efficient window.
1. Multiple Panes of Glass
In the winter, single-pane windows are any homeowner’s biggest enemy. That single pane of glass allows cold air to enter and hot air to exit easily. This will negatively impact their energy bills because their HVAC system will have to work harder in order to compensate for the loss of heat produced, which ultimately leads to more energy consumed. To replace your windows, you should look into double or even triple pane windows. Triple pane windows are often the most efficient type, while double pane windows are still significantly more efficient than single pane windows. However, additional glass panes do not automatically equal an energy-efficient replacement window. Before selecting the windows that are best for your house and energy cost, you need also consider the other attributes that they have to offer.
2. Gas Between Panes
Inert gas is another characteristic of excellent windows that save you a great amount of energy. Inert gas is used between the panes of glass in energy-efficient replacement windows. These invisible, harmless gases, such as argon or krypton, operate as an extra layer of insulation for the window. The inclusion of this gas inside a window helps keep the warm air inside and cold air outside of your home. Because not all multiplane windows employ gas fills, it is recommended that you double-check with a window technician and ask them about this gas before presuming that it is already in there.
3. Low-E Glazing
A low-emission coating, also known as low-e coating, is a thin, practically undetectable metallic coating applied to the glass of a window. The purpose of this substance is to increase the window’s thermal insulating efficiency. This quality of energy-efficient windows is mandatory, as it is one of key factors that contribute to the benefits that these windows provide. Furthermore, low-e glazing is a very versatile substance as it is appropriate in all climates and protects against UV radiation, preventing fading of carpet, furniture, and décor. If you are interested in this feature and want to have it on all of your windows and doors, consult with a contractor today!
4. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
Sunlight beaming in on a frigid winter day might feel like a lovely experience. However, in the summer, that additional light and warmth can add significantly to your energy expenditure, since your HVAC system will have to work harder in order to cool your home down. This is where the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) enters the picture. The quantity of solar radiation that may flow through a window is expressed in terms of the solar heat-gain coefficient, where 0 represents the least amount of heat permitted through a window and 1 represents the greatest. A SHGC rating of 0.5 indicates that the window can transmit 50% of the available solar heat. Energy-efficient windows have a SHGC rating of anywhere between 0.35 and 0.6 which is extremely good for both you and your home’s environment.
5. Insulating Window Frames
The frame of a window also has a great impact on an energy-efficient replacement window. There are a variety of window frame types to choose from and every last one of them on the market has advantages and disadvantages. For example, vinyl is a popular choice since it is inexpensive yet still incredibly energy efficient. The most insulation is provided by wood frames, but they demand more maintenance from homeowners. Other treatments are available, and speaking with a replacement window specialist can help you understand all of the alternatives for energy efficient windows—from frames to glazing—to find what best meets your needs.
Installing energy-efficient windows into your home is a great investment that you should consider, if you want to save your money, especially in the long-term. Windows and doors that are energy-efficient provide a number of benefits because of the various special qualities they possess. Some of these qualities include multiple panes of glass, gas between panes, low-e glazing, low SHGC rating and insulating window frames. If you are interested in investing in these kinds of windows, it is best that you contact your local, trusted windows and doors contractor today in order to learn more about them!