Your home’s windows do more than just provide a view to the outside world. They also add to your home’s insulation and protect you from the elements. Unfortunately, windows tend to become less effective as they age. Leaks around window frames can lead to chilly drafts and can drive up your utility costs too. Replacing old or underperforming windows with energy-efficient windows is a great way to increase your overall comfort while improving your home’s appearance and adding to its value too.
A Closer Look at Energy Efficient Windows
Energy efficient windows are carefully engineered and constructed to enhance a home’s insulation and overall efficiency. Made from special materials, these windows offer a great way to update your home while increasing its value. Energy-efficient windows begin with window frames designed with efficiency in mind.
Vinyl windows are cost effective and relatively easy to install. These windows provide for excellent use life and often come with lifetime warranties. Vinyl is also easy to maintain and looks great with minimal cleaning and upkeep. Their resilience and durability also make them an ideal choice for Denver’s sometimes-harsh climate.
Aluminum windows provide excellent strength and durability in a light package. Aluminum can easily be configured to fit odd-sized windows. Generally thin, these types of window frames highlight the beauty of glass and don’t detract from a home’s architectural features. They are relatively easy to clean but do show wear over time.
Fiberglass windows are very durable and offer an excellent efficiency profile. Like aluminum, fiberglass can be configured to fit a wide variety of window needs. This material is easy to care for and has a long use life. It is also available in a wide variety of colors to meet homeowner needs.
Wood windows add unparalleled warmth and character to any space. They can be configured to fit an array of needs and can be stained or painted to any color desired. However, wood windows do require significant maintenance. They are also more susceptible to the tough climate conditions in Colorado than other window choices.
Inside Energy-Efficient Windows
Window frames are just one component of energy-efficient windows. These special windows are constructed with efficiency, durability and performance in mind. When you choose energy-efficient windows, you get state-of-the-art engineering alongside high-quality materials.
Efficient Window Types
Casement windows are hinged at the sides and open outwards to allow for excellent ventilation. They are preferred by many homeowners for both their appearance and performance. These types of windows have extremely low air leakage ratings and excel at blocking drafts.
Double-hung windows open and close on a vertical slider system. They perform well in tight spaces, are incredibly versatile, and easy to clean. When hung and sealed correctly, these windows do a very good job of eliminating drafts and air leakage.
Energy-Efficient Glass Coatings
Energy efficient windows feature low-e coated glass. This special coating is designed to reduce the amount of UV and infrared light that enters a home while still allowing for beautiful, natural lighting. Two types of low-e coating are available.
Soft Coat Low-E is a coating on the interior side of the window. This means that it isn’t susceptible to scratches from trees, dirt and debris. Both low-e 2 and low-e 3 options are available. Low-e 2 is ideal for Denver homes because it blocks heat in the summer but allows for some heat transfer during cooler winter months.
Hard Coat Low-E is a coating on the exterior side of the window. It is commonly found in new construction. While hard coat low e provides excellent insulation, it is susceptible to scratches caused by trees, bushes, dirt and other debris.
Gas Fills
In double-pane windows, hot or cold air can become trapped between the two panes and impact the overall comfort inside a home. Energy efficient windows feature a gas fill between the two panes to prevent this issue. Argon and krypton are commonly used for gas fills. While argon is more affordable, krypton provides for better insulation and overall performance.
Heat Mirror Glass
Some energy efficient windows also feature heat mirror glass. This special type of glass works to control the internal temperature of your home by reflecting heat back outside. Heat mirror glass is considered the most efficient of all glass types.
Energy Efficient Windows Keep the Noise Out and Let the Sunshine In
Energy efficient windows do more than just improve the overall aesthetic of your home. They also go a long way towards helping you control utility costs. These types of windows keep heat out in the summer and prevent the cold from coming in during the winter. That means that your home comfort system won’t have to work as hard to keep up with heating and cooling demands, which in turn translates into utility savings.
Energy efficient windows are also superior at keeping noise out of your home. They’re designed to provide a comfortable cushion from the outside world that means better control over your comfort in a variety of ways. Of course, these windows still let in just the right amount of light for your space.
Can You Install Energy Efficient Windows Yourself?
Installing energy efficient windows on your own may be tempting. However, it’s important to work with a professional installer when replacing windows. The right fit and insulation are crucial to the function and value of your new windows. Making the most of your efficient window investment means letting someone with extensive training and experience install them on your behalf. Additionally, installing windows yourself can be dangerous with the high risk of an accident such as glass breaking if you’re not experienced.
Do you think energy-efficient windows might make sense for your home? Contact us today to learn more about your high-efficiency window options.
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