4 Factors To Consider When Shopping For Energy Efficient Windows | Fort Worth, TX

4 Factors To Consider When Shopping For Energy Efficient Windows | Fort Worth, TX

Photo By Johnny Greig at istock

Windows have different functions other than providing light in your home. Windows are also responsible for keeping the outside air from entering your home. They are also responsible for the energy efficiency in your home. It is best to invest in energy efficient windows because it will keep your utility bill low in the long run. There are many types of windows out there and not all of them are energy efficient thus it is best to consult with a service provider such as Energy Window Solutions serving Fort Worth, TX to help you make the final decision. There are some things that you can look at when you are shopping for energy efficient windows.

1. Layers Of Glass And Gas Fill

Normal windows that are not energy efficient have one layer of glass. This layer is thin and will not prevent treated air from escaping your house or letting the outside air in. Energy efficient windows have two or three layers of glass. Between these layers of glass, there is a gas in the middle of the layers that prevents heat from traveling through the glass. The most common type of gas that you will find in your double or triple pane windows is argon and krypton gas. These gases enhance insulation because they are heavier than air. You should inquire whether or not the multi-pane windows have gas in between the layers as not all types of multi-pane windows have insulating gas. You should always confirm this before buying your energy efficient windows otherwise you run the risk of spending money on windows that will not decrease your utility bill in the future. It is also worth mentioning that the more layers a windowpane has, the more expensive it will be. Triple pane windows are sometimes difficult to find so it is best to consider your option carefully.

2. Heat From The Sun

This is not a factor a lot of people consider when they are buying new windows but the rays of the sun have the potential to heat up your home when they penetrate through the windows. Some windows allow more sunlight to shine through them while others allow less sunlight to enter your home. If you live in an area that has cool summers and freezing winters then you might want to install windows that allow more sunlight to enter your home as this will keep your home a little warmer without turning on the furnace. If you live in an area where there are hot summers and mild winters then you might consider installing windows that let less of the sun’s rays penetrate your home. The sun rays will be kept out by a coating that prevents the sun’s UV rays and infrared radiation from traveling through the windows. This coating consists of a thin layer of metal and you can buy windows that already have this thin layer of metal. If you are unsure which type or brand of the window to buy then you can contact Energy Window Solutions for more information.

3. Frame Material

The frames of the windows that you are planning to install are important. These frames can be made from a wide range of materials such as wood, aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass. Each of these has its benefits and disadvantages when it comes to energy efficiency. Wood, fiberglass, and vinyl have great insulating properties; wood requires a lot more maintenance than the other two options. Steel or aluminum windows are the most durable but they will not insulate your home as well as fiberglass. You can always ask your service provider which option would be best for the environment that you live in. This is the safest option. You also want to find frames that suit your home aesthetic indoors and outdoors. The windows can improve the image of your home or it can make your house stick out like a sore thumb. Luckily there is a wide range of designs and sizes in which energy efficient windows come.

4. Installation

In order for you to benefit from energy efficient windows, they have to be installed first. These windows must be installed correctly so that they provide the adequate amount of insulation that you need. This is why it is advised that you do not attempt to do it yourself since you do not have the necessary technical knowledge. You should also confirm with your normal service provider if they will be able to install the specific type and brand of the window that you have decided on. You should also make sure that the window installation duration will fit into your schedule because there has to be someone to open for the technicians. You should also make sure which other services such as cleaning are included in the energy efficient windows installation fee and which ones you need to pay extra for.

Now that you know a little bit more about what you should look out for when you are shopping for energy efficient windows, you can make better decisions. You can also decide which factors are the most important to you. It is also worth mentioning that you shouldn’t attempt to install these windows yourself even if the Youtube videos make it look easy. If you have any trouble deciding then you can contact Energy Window Solutions serving Fort Worth, TX to help you. Their friendly staff members will be able to assist you with any queries that you might have. They also provide a wide range of window services that you could benefit from.

If you live in the Fort Worth, TX area then consider contacting Energy Window Solutions to schedule your appointment for energy efficient windows.