Having these types of windows in your home offer many benefits. The one main benefit is helping the homeowner save a considerable amount on their utility expenses. They also help to keep your home comfortable. The main goal of having such windows is to help reduce the air-leakage inside their home. There are several things that can be done to make windows more energy efficient, which includes different glazing and casements to having more than one pane of glass. Over time, window technology has substantially improved.
• Using more than one pane of glass-this is the first step when you want to make your windows energy efficient. It is just like a person does when they add extra layers of clothes when going outside. They are helping their body maintain heat, which is what those additional panes of glass do. There are debates on the cost effectiveness of windows with triple panes between home designers and contractors. Yes, they are more energy efficient windows than double paned windows but it is a smaller gain than what you get when you go from single to double paned. One reason that you may decide on triple pane windows is that filter out more noise. If you plan to live in the house for years eventually the costs will be paid back in energy savings if you choose triple pane windows.
• Adding a gas between the panes-in addition to adding extra panes of glass adding a gas between them can provide a little more insulation. The gases often used are argon and krypton and are considered a better insulator than using air alone.
• Special coatings-these can also help create a more energy efficient window. The coatings are called low-emission coatings. They reflect infrared light, which is a prime source for heat. The coatings will help to keep heat outside in the summertime and the heat inside the home during the winter. They also help to protect against ultraviolet light, which can help to reduce the bleaching or fading of fabrics inside your home. These low-emission coatings can have glazing added to them and some of these glazing can be tinted. This helps the coats to provide more energy efficient windows.
• Frame materials-these can also make a difference. Aluminum windows are normally not considered to be in this category of windows but there have been improvements with aluminum that can make them more energy efficient. Usually to make windows more energy efficient the frames are made of fiberglass, vinyl, or wood composites.
When upgrading or replacing your windows make sure that you are buying from a reputable company. If they say they are energy efficient, ask for proof as to what makes them energy efficient windows.
