Window replacement is a great way to reduce energy costs and enhance your home’s curb appeal. A professional installer can provide a comprehensive project plan, precise timelines and clear expectations. Look for a company that offers installation guarantees and unlimited lifetime warranties.
Full frame installation replaces the entire window frame and sash, but a less-invasive retrofit method can also improve efficiency and save money. Consider Low-E glass and argon gas insulation for superior performance.
Low-E Glass
Low-E stands for “low emissivity,” and it refers to a coating on a window glass that limits how much heat passes through. It works by reflecting infrared energy without impacting the amount of visible light transmitted through a window. It also helps to prevent the majority of UV rays from entering a home, which is important because ultraviolet radiation causes many indoor fabrics and wall coverings to fade over time.
Low E coatings are available in soft-coat and hard-coat options, so homeowners can choose the option that best suits their needs and climate conditions. For example, if you live in a colder climate, a hard-coat Low-E option will allow some of the sun’s short-wave infrared energy to pass through the window and help warm the home during the winter.
Moreover, when used with Argon gas, soft-coat Low-E glass offers even more benefits to homeowners, including enhanced energy efficiency, reduced condensation and frost and improved soundproofing. In addition, argon gas can also be added to double-pane windows for optimal performance and cost savings.
Vinyl Windows
The most common window material in new construction and replacement windows, vinyl is a great option for homeowners. Its benefits include a lower initial investment, easy maintenance, and longevity. Additionally, vinyl is a good insulator and can help reduce your energy costs.
In addition to their affordability, vinyl windows are easy to clean and are impervious to rot, insects, and the elements. They are also available in a wide variety of colors and styles, making them an attractive choice for any home.
Premium vinyl windows like SoftLite feature multiple air chambers in their frames and sashes, which improve the window’s insulating performance. This helps to reduce your energy costs, which can lead to a quick return on investment. In fact, many of SoftLite’s energy efficient windows are ENERGY STAR® optimized and have industry-leading air infiltration rates to reduce your energy costs even further. These energy-efficient windows help to reduce the amount of time your heater and AC run, saving you money each month!
Drapes
Drapes are another window treatment that offers next-level energy efficiency. They are typically made of thick fabrics that help to block out the sun’s heat, keeping your living spaces cool and reducing the need for air conditioning. During the cold winter, drapes can also prevent heat loss and maintain your home’s comfort. They can also reduce outside noises, improving your quality of life and making it more peaceful.
Both drapes and curtains can be designed with different lengths and textures, allowing you to create the perfect aesthetic for your space. For spaces that will be used for entertaining, long puddled drapes can evoke a sense of extravagance and elegance that speaks to your personal design style. Buying drapes also allows for higher customization and ensures that they will align with any event theme or brand guidelines. For many, however, the initial cost of buying can be a deterrent and renting might be more practical.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows are a smart choice for homeowners looking to improve the comfort of their homes and lower their utility bills. They provide superior insulation and are a great way to offset your carbon footprint. With a little care, these windows are easy to maintain and will deliver years of beauty and savings.
Unlike single-pane windows, energy efficient models feature double or triple panes of glass with an air or inert gas (like argon) between each layer to increase insulation. Additionally, they have quality frame materials, including vinyl, fiberglass, clad wood and metal.
Other important features include Low-E coatings, which reflect the sun’s rays and keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer. They also have improved seals that reduce drafts and minimize energy loss. Finally, they’re compatible with a variety of window types, including casement, awning and picture windows. The full-frame installation method is typically recommended for the best results. It allows for a more accurate measurement of the window’s U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient, which determines how well it performs in your climate.