Key Takeaways:
- There are three main types of energy-efficient windows: low-emissivity (Low-E), gas-filled, and energy-efficient glazed windows.
- If you have a modern home, high-efficiency windows will likely complement its design.
- Energy-efficient windows can save you money on energy bills, make your home more comfortable, and reduce your carbon footprint.
- The best window for your home will depend on the climate and your home’s architecture.
- A home innovations contractor can help install these windows as they are experienced in measurements and professional installation procedures.
When it comes to achieving energy efficiency, your windows are one of the most important things to consider. Windows can account for up to 25-30% of a home’s heating and cooling costs, so it’s essential to choose wisely.
But with all the different types of windows, how would you know which ones are right for your home? It’s always best to consult a professional home innovations contractor to get the best idea. However, if you’re looking to upgrade your old windows or are in the market for new high-efficiency windows, here’s everything you need to know.
What Are the Different Types of Energy-Efficient Windows?
There are three main types of energy-efficient windows:
- Low-emissivity (Low-E) windows: Low-E windows have a thin coating of metal oxide that reflects heat into the home. These windows effectively block heat loss and heat gain.
- Gas-filled windows: Gas-filled windows have argon or krypton gas between the panes of glass. This gas helps to insulate the home and prevent heat loss.
- Energy-efficient glazed: Glazed windows use glass reflecting heat into the home and blocking UV rays.
Things To Consider Before Purchasing High-Efficiency Windows
If you’re looking to be more energy-efficient, one home improvement option is to switch to high-efficiency windows. This can save energy costs and reduce your home’s carbon footprint. But before you purchase new windows, you should consider a few things.
First and foremost, you must consider the climate of your area. Energy-efficient windows may not be necessary if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. They could cost you more money in the long run.
Energy-efficient windows are designed to keep heat and cold during winter and summer. So, if you live in a place with moderate temperatures, energy-efficient windows will help you save money.
Another consideration is the style of your home. If you have a modern home, high-efficiency windows will likely complement its design. However, if you have an older home, you may want to stick with traditional windows. This is because energy-efficient windows can be more expensive and may not fit the aesthetic of your home.
Finally, you need to think about the cost of high-efficiency windows. They can be significantly more expensive than traditional windows. So, if you’re on a strict budget, you may want to stick with conventional windows. However, energy-efficient windows are worth the investment if you can afford them.
Heat Conduction Factors for Energy-Efficient Windows
- U-factor: The U-factor measures the heat transfer rate (heat flow) due to conduction and air leakage. The lower the U-factor, the better a window is at limiting heat loss.
- R-value: This measures a material’s capacity to resist heat flow from one side to the other, deciding how well a material insulates. The greater the R-value, the more effective the insulation.
- Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC): The SHGC measures a window’s ability to absorb and block sunlight and solar heat. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat enters through the window.
Why Is It Important to Know These Factors?
These ratings are important because they let you know how energy efficient a window is. When looking for new windows, you want to find the ones that are energy efficient and save you money on energy bills.
What Are the Benefits of Installing High-Efficiency Windows?
There are many benefits to installing energy-efficient windows in your home. Energy-efficient windows can save you money on energy bills, make your home more comfortable, and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Save money on energy bills: Energy-efficient windows can save your energy bills through temperature control. This can help you stay comfortable all year while also saving you money.
- Make your home more comfortable: Energy-efficient windows can also help make your home more comfortable by regulating the temperature inside. This means you won’t have to worry about drafts or hot spots in your home.
- Reduce your carbon footprint: Energy-efficient windows can also help reduce your carbon footprint. By using less energy to heat and cool your home, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment.
- Improve your home’s value: Installing energy-efficient windows can also help improve your home’s value. Suppose you’re thinking of selling your home in the future. In that case, energy-efficient windows will be a selling point for potential buyers.
Here are some more benefits of energy-efficient windows you’d want to know.
Which Kind of Energy-Efficient Window Is Best for Your Home?
There are a few different types of energy-efficient windows. The kind that’s best for your home will depend on the climate and your home’s architecture.
- Storm windows: Storm windows are an extra layer of protection for your home’s existing windows. They can be made of glass or plastic and are generally installed on your home’s exterior. Storm windows can help reduce drafts and improve insulation, making them a good choice for homes in colder climates.
- Double-paned windows: Double-paned windows have two layers of glass with a gas (usually argon or krypton) between them. This gas helps to insulate your home by trapping heat inside. Double-paned windows are a decent choice for homes in every climate.
- Triple-paned windows: Triple-paned windows are similar to double-paned windows, but they have three layers of glass instead of two. They’re also usually filled with a gas (usually argon or krypton) to help insulate your home. Triple-paned windows are some of the most energy-efficient home options in all climates.
Why Hire a Professional Home Innovations Contractor for Window Installation?
- They have the experience: A home innovations contractor has the expertise to install your windows properly. They know how to measure for the windows, cut them to size, and install them, so they’re level and secure.
- They offer a warranty: Most professionals offer a warranty on their work. They’ll fix it without extra charges if something goes wrong with the installation.
- They can help you choose the right windows: A professional can help you choose the right windows for your home. They can help you decide on the windows’ style, material, and energy efficiency that will work best for your home.
All in all, energy-efficient windows are an investment that will save you money on your energy bills. Still, they’ll also make your home more comfortable and increase its resale value.
Core Home Innovations provides expert power-saving and roofing solutions in Houston, TX. If you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency, get a free quote today!
