Upgrading your home’s windows with ENERGY STAR-rated models helps reduce energy costs and protect furnishings from harmful UV rays. It also enables you to qualify for a tax deduction and reduces climate pollution.
The best energy-efficient windows limit heat transfer to keep homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter, saving homeowners money. They also increase the value of a home and reduce indirect greenhouse gas emissions.
Low-E glass
When searching for energy-efficient windows, it’s important to be aware of all of your options. A Certified MI Dealer can help you understand how Low-E glass and other features like better spacing, gas fills, triple panes, and more can save you money on your utility bills.
Low-E, or low-emissivity, is a coating that helps to keep your home comfortable by reflecting the sun’s rays and minimizing the amount of heat that enters your home. This type of window is most effective when used with a double-pane windows and is available in both passive and solar control versions.
Another popular choice in energy efficient windows is argon gas. This inert, odorless gas is injected between the window’s two panes and acts as an invisible layer of insulation. This option is especially helpful in colder climate zones and higher altitudes. It reduces condensation and also helps protect furnishings from fading due to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Argon gas fills
Argon is an inexpensive, non-toxic and odorless gas that is used in window insulation to reduce heat loss. This makes argon-filled windows a popular choice for residential window replacement Ferndale MI. These windows are energy star rated and help to lower home energy consumption by blocking out outside air and preventing the transfer of heat through the glass. Argon-filled windows are available in double- and triple-paned construction. Homeowners can tell if their windows are argon-filled by checking the spacers in between the glass panes. If they are argon-filled, the spacers will have small holes along their length to allow for the pumping in of argon while allowing air to escape out of those holes.
Other noble gases like xenon and krypton may also be used in window insulation to improve the R-value and thermal efficiency of the windows, but argon is the most affordable option and is readily available in a large quantity. It is not uncommon for some argon to leak from the window over time, but this loss will have little effect on the effectiveness of the window.
Bay windows
There are few window upgrades that add as much curb appeal as bay windows. These home accents extend outward from a wall, creating a nook that can be used for seating or storage and offering expansive views of the property. They are especially effective for living rooms and kitchens as they provide more sunlight than traditional casement windows.
Argon gas-filled windows are another option for homeowners seeking energy efficient options in Ferndale MI. The invisible layer of argon between the windows reduces heat transfer and helps to keep indoor temperatures stable. It also blocks out harmful UV rays that can fade fabrics and carpets over time.
Insert or “pocket” installation involves replacing only the sashes in existing frames, which makes the process less invasive and more affordable than a full-frame installation. This method is ideal for older homes or those undergoing renovations, and it preserves the architectural integrity of the property. It also helps mitigate rot and water damage caused by moisture intrusion.
Triple-pane windows
Triple-pane windows with Low-E glass are a great option for northern climate zones. This type of window helps keep homes cool in summer and warm in winter and muffles noise and UV rays. They also meet the stringent requirements of some states’ mandatory energy codes and may qualify homeowners for tax deductions.
Another popular option is the bay window, which can add value to a home and create a nook for seating or storage. These windows are a good choice for older homes or those that have been undergoing renovations, as they allow more sunlight to enter without compromising the structural integrity of the building.
Whether you’re looking for new windows or replacements, it’s important to choose a trusted provider with years of experience and a solid reputation. Make sure they offer a wide range of options, including Low-E glass and argon gas insulation, as well as a comprehensive warranty. A certified MI Dealer can help you determine which energy-efficient features are best for your home and lifestyle.