Replacing old windows can save money, make your home more comfortable, and protect your possessions from harmful UV rays. However, it’s important to choose the right materials for your project and ensure that you get the best installation method.
Vinyl windows are budget-friendly and offer good thermal insulation. Double-pane windows with argon gas between the panes reduce heat transfer and enhance insulation.
Low-E glass
The windows in your home play a crucial role in the heating and cooling costs of your property. They can either help to keep energy bills low or contribute to them increasing. The best way to minimize the impact that your windows have on your energy bills is to get them replaced with ones that are Energy Star certified and made of low-E glass.
Low-E glass was designed to minimize the amount of infrared and UV rays that can pass through your windows without minimizing natural light. They do this by using a microscopically thin coating that is both transparent and reflective. This coating is also much thinner than a human hair.
Depending on your climate, you can choose between different low-e glass options. These options will have a visible transmittance rating that can be anywhere between 0 and 1. The lower the rating, the more invisible it is. Some options may have a hard coat, while others will be coated on the interior side of the window pane.
Argon gas-filled windows
Argon gas is a colorless, odorless and harmless gas that can be used to insulate windows. It is a superior insulator and performs comparably to wall insulation. It also offers improved resistance to ultraviolet rays that can fade fabrics and furniture. Argon-filled windows are a good choice for energy conscious homeowners.
They can reduce utility costs and help lower home maintenance bills. These windows can also add value to your property. The type of window you choose should be based on your needs and the climate where you live.
Choosing the correct installation method can also make or break the performance of your windows. Full frame installation involves replacing the entire window-frame and sash, and is ideal for older windows that need repair or are in need of replacement. A less invasive technique is insert or pocket window installation, where the new windows fit into the existing frames. This option is typically quicker and more affordable than full frame installation.
Energy Star certification
ENERGY STAR certification helps homeowners save energy, money, and comfort while also cutting climate pollution. The ENERGY STAR label is found on products certified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to meet rigorous energy efficiency specifications. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing windows, doors, skylights, and more to lower your household energy bills and cut emissions. ENERGY STAR-certified window frames typically feature a combination of framing materials including aluminum, vinyl, wood, or fiberglass. They are also designed with thermal breaks to reduce conductive heat loss. Some frames have foam insulation sections, wide vinyl sills, or aluminum cladding for added performance.
Solar control glass
Unlike ordinary glass, solar control glass reflects or absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation and heat while allowing natural light to enter buildings. This helps reduce energy consumption and electricity bills, making it an excellent choice for green building projects. Additionally, this window technology prevents glare from sunlight, which can lead to eye strain and even headaches.
Using these windows can help your home maintain an optimal temperature in hot summers and cold winters. They also minimize heat loss during winter, reducing the need for mechanical heating. They can be installed in new construction or as an insert into existing frames, a process known as retrofit double glazing.
Solar control glass offers many benefits, including improved energy efficiency and climate control, increased productivity for occupants, and reduced utility costs. It also provides UV protection, reducing fading of interior furnishings and skin damage from excessive exposure to direct sunlight. Finally, it minimizes glare from sunlight and other sources of ambient lighting, leading to a more comfortable and productive working environment.