Energy-Efficient Window Features
Increasing your home’s energy efficiency can enhance your home’s comfort and potentially lead to savings on your energy bill. If you want a more energy-efficient home, getting the right windows is essential. But how do you know which windows are energy-efficient windows?
Many features can help you know if a window is energy efficient, including:
High-Quality Frame
A critical aspect of energy-efficient windows is the frame material. Vinyl frames, for instance, offer superior insulation compared to traditional wood frames. The frame’s durability is equally crucial; a robust frame ensures your windows will not sag or warp, preventing drafts in the long run. For enhanced insulation, consider a foam-filled window frame.
Multiple Panes of Glass
To maximize energy efficiency, opt for windows with multiple panes of glass. Unlike a single-pane window, double or triple panes provide enhanced insulation, effectively blocking heat transfer through the window. These extra panes insulate your home and contribute to soundproofing.
Low-E Glass Coating
Heat can still find a way through the glass, but energy-efficient windows incorporate a Low-E (low emissivity) glass coating to address this issue. This thin metallic coating is applied to the inner part of the window’s exterior pane. It reflects infrared and ultraviolet light, preventing heat from escaping during the winter and keeping outside heat at bay in the summer. Additionally, Low-E coatings protect your interior and furniture from fading due to sun damage.
Gas Fills
Even with multiple panes and Low-E coating, there is often a space between the glass panes. This space is typically filled with a special gas, like Argon. Argon gas, denser than air, provides superior insulation when injected between the panes. It acts as an additional layer of insulation against the elements.
Warm Edge Spacer
Warm edge spacers maintain an appropriate distance between the glass panes and create an effective seal. These spacers contribute to insulating the window and reducing heat transfer through the contact points between the pane and frame.
Weatherstripping
Most energy-efficient windows have weatherstripping along the edges. This plastic material creates a tight seal that prevents drafts. The more weatherstripping you have, the better the insulation.
Energy Efficiency Labels
Look for windows with ENERGY STAR® and NFRC labels. These labels indicate that the windows have met specific performance standards, ensuring you get the most energy-efficient products.
Proper Installation
It is essential to highlight that even the most energy-efficient window can be rendered useless if it is not installed correctly. Proper installation is just as crucial as the frame material or the type of gas fill. A trusted window company will ensure that your replacement windows are installed to perfection.
