How A Combination Of Blinds And Shutters Can Enhance Your Home’s Aesthetics And Functionality

How A Combination Of Blinds And Shutters Can Enhance Your Home’s Aesthetics And Functionality

When it comes to window treatments, blinds, and shutters are two of the most popular options. Both offer a range of benefits, from light control and privacy to energy efficiency and style. However, choosing between the two can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with their differences and features. The right combination will help you create a stylish and functional window treatment that meets your needs and preferences.

Benefits of Shutter and Blind Combination for Your Home

A well-designed home reflects your style and provides comfort and functionality. One aspect of the home design that often goes overlooked is the combination of window shutters and blinds. This versatile duo offers a range of benefits that can enhance your living space’s overall aesthetic and practicality.

Enhanced Privacy

Combining shutters and blinds allows you to control your home’s privacy level. With adjustable slats and the ability to open or close the blinds, you can easily regulate the amount of visibility from the outside. This is particularly useful in urban settings or areas with close neighbors.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Shutters and blinds work together to provide insulation for your home, reducing heat transfer through windows. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and can lead to significant energy savings on heating and cooling costs throughout the year.

Customizable Aesthetics

With various styles, materials, and colors available, shutters and blinds can be tailored to suit your home’s design. Design a cohesive look that blends with your existing decor and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your living space.

Light Control

The combination of blinds and shutters lets you control the natural light entering your home. This can help create a comfortable atmosphere and protect your furniture and flooring from harmful UV rays that can cause fading and damage.

Noise Reduction

Both shutters and blinds can help reduce noise pollution from outside sources. This is particularly beneficial for homes near busy streets or noisy neighborhoods, as it can create a more peaceful and quiet living environment.

Easy Maintenance

Shutters and blinds are generally low-maintenance window treatments. They are easy to clean, making them a practical choice for busy households.

Enhanced Security

Adding shutters and blinds to your windows can provide your home with additional security. They deter potential intruders by making seeing inside and accessing your property more difficult.

Versatility

The combination of shutters and blinds offers versatility in function and style. They can be used in various rooms throughout your home, from bedrooms and living areas to kitchens and bathrooms.

Longevity

High-quality shutters and blinds are built to last, providing a durable, long-lasting window treatment solution. This makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run, as they require less frequent replacement than other window coverings.

Protection from the Elements

Shutters and blinds can help protect your home from harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures. This can prevent damage to your windows and interior furnishings and improve overall comfort.

Child Safety

Modern shutters and blinds are designed with child safety features, such as cordless operation or motorization. This eliminates the risk of accidents involving cords and ensures a safer environment for young children.

How to Choose the Right Shutter and Blind Combination for Your Home

Choosing the right shutter and blind combination for your home is essential for achieving the perfect balance of style, functionality, and privacy. With many options available, deciding which combination will best suit your needs can be overwhelming. Here are key points to consider when selecting the ideal blinds and shutters for your home, ensuring you make an informed decision that enhances your living space.

Room Functionality

Consider the primary function of each room when selecting shutters and blinds. For instance, bedrooms may require more privacy and light control, making blackout blinds and solid shutters suitable. On the other hand, living areas may benefit from sheer blinds and plantation shutters for a balance of natural light and privacy.

Window Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of your windows. Large windows may require custom-made shutters and blinds, while smaller or uniquely shaped windows may benefit from versatile options like honeycomb blinds or cafe-style shutters that can be easily adapted to fit. Energy Window Solutions offers various options for different window sizes.

Material

Choose materials that complement your home’s interior design and suit the room’s conditions. For example, moisture-resistant materials like vinyl or aluminum are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, while wood or faux wood options add warmth and elegance to living spaces.

Color and Style

Select a color and style that complements your existing decor. Neutral colors like white, beige, or gray are versatile and timeless, while bolder hues can make a statement. Consider the style of your home, whether modern, traditional, or eclectic and choose shutters and blinds that enhance the overall aesthetic.

Light Control

Evaluate your need for light control in each room. Blackout blinds paired with solid shutters offer maximum light blockage, while sheer blinds and louvered shutters allow for adjustable light filtration.

Insulation

Consider the insulation properties of your chosen shutters and blinds. Cellular blinds and solid shutters provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

Ease of Maintenance

Choose shutters and blinds that are easy to clean and maintain. Vinyl and aluminum options are generally low-maintenance, while wood and fabric blinds may require more frequent cleaning. Energy Window Solutions offers maintenance services to keep your shutters in good condition.

Safety

Prioritize safety, especially in homes with children or pets. Cordless blinds and shutters with built-in safety features, such as tension cords or wand controls, help reduce the risk of accidents.

If you’re looking for high-quality blinds and shutters that can enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality while improving energy efficiency, look no further than Energy Window Solutions. We can help you select the perfect combination that meets your needs and preferences and provides professional installation and maintenance services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward upgrading your home’s window treatments.

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How Energy Efficient Windows Help You Save Money On Your Energy Bills

How Energy Efficient Windows Help You Save Money On Your Energy Bills

There’s a growing concern for energy efficiency for homeowners and businesses alike. With the rising energy cost and climate change’s impact, finding ways to reduce energy consumption has become a top priority. The most effective way to achieve energy efficiency is installing energy efficient windows. They are designed to reduce heat loss or gain, which can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills.

Factors to Consider when Selecting Windows for Power Efficiency

Windows can be a significant source of energy loss, accounting for up to 30% of a building’s total energy consumption. Selecting efficient windows is crucial for reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills. Here are factors to consider when selecting your windows.

Window Material

The window frame material plays a crucial role when selecting windows for power efficiency. Materials like vinyl, wood, and fiberglass are known for their insulating properties, which help reduce heat transfer and maintain indoor temperatures. Aluminum, on the other hand, is less energy-efficient due to its high thermal conductivity. Therefore, choosing a window frame with good insulating properties is essential for power efficiency. Energy Window Solutions offers various materials, depending on your taste and preference.

Glazing Type

The type of glazing used in windows significantly impacts their energy efficiency. Double or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings reduce heat more effectively than single-pane windows. Low-E coatings help reflect heat back into the room during winter and block solar heat during summer, contributing to overall power efficiency. Energy Window Solutions can help determine the best window fit for your needs.

Gas Fills

Inert gases like krypton and argon are filled in the space between the glass panes. Their thermal conductivity is lower than that of air, which helps minimize heat transfer through the window. When selecting windows for power efficiency, consider those with gas fills to enhance their insulating properties.

Window Design

The design of a window can also impact its energy efficiency. Casement, awning, and hopper windows typically offer better insulation due to their tight seal when closed. On the other hand, sliding or single-hung windows may have more air leakage, reducing their power efficiency. Choose a window design with a tight seal to minimize heat loss or gain.

Shading Devices

External shading devices, such as awnings, shutters, or shades, can help control solar heat gain and improve power efficiency. These devices can be adjusted to block direct sunlight during summer while allowing it to enter during winter. Consider incorporating shading devices to enhance their performance when selecting windows for power efficiency.

Window-to-Wall Ratio

The window-to-wall ratio (WWR) is the proportion of window area to the total wall area. A higher WWR can increase heat gain or loss, reducing power efficiency. Select windows with an appropriate WWR for your building’s climate and design to optimize energy performance.

Thermal Performance Ratings

When selecting windows for power efficiency, consider their thermal performance ratings, such as U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures the heat transfer rate, while SHGC indicates the amount of solar heat that passes through the window. Choose windows with lower U-factors and SHGC values for better insulation and reduced solar heat gain. Energy Window Solutions offers guidance while choosing windows according to the thermal performance ratings.

Air Leakage

Air leakage through windows can significantly impact power efficiency. Look for windows with low air leakage ratings to minimize drafts and heat loss. Proper installation and weather stripping can also help reduce air infiltration, enhancing the window’s energy performance.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Some windows may require more frequent cleaning or maintenance than others, depending on their design and construction. Choosing windows that are easy to clean and maintain can help ensure that they continue to perform efficiently over time, reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills.

How Window Efficiency Can Help You Save Money

Energy efficient windows can help lower your bills in the following ways:

Reduced Energy Consumption

Improving window efficiency can significantly reduce energy consumption in your home. By installing efficient windows or upgrading existing ones, you can minimize heat transfer, keeping your home cool during summer and warmer in the winter. This results in less reliance on heating and cooling systems, ultimately lowering your energy bills and saving you money. Energy Window Solutions provides windows guaranteed to save energy costs.

Enhanced Insulation

Efficient windows provide better insulation, reducing drafts and cold spots in your home. This improved insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for constant adjustments to your thermostat. As a result, you’ll experience increased comfort and reduced energy costs.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Windows made from high-quality materials that require less maintenance than traditional windows are energy-efficient. This means you’ll spend less time and money on repairs and upkeep, saving you money in the long run.

Reduced Condensation

Energy efficient windows help to reduce condensation buildup, which may support mold and mildew growth. Minimizing condensation can maintain a healthier indoor environment and avoid costly repairs associated with mold and water damage.

Enhanced UV Protection

Efficient windows often come with built-in UV protection, which can help protect your home’s interior from the sun’s rays, which may cause damage. This can save you money on replacing damaged furniture, flooring, and other items.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

By reducing drafts and condensation, efficient windows help improve the air quality in your home. This can lead to a healthier living environment and may even reduce the need for air purifiers or other indoor air quality solutions, saving you money.

Increased Lifespan

Energy efficient windows are designed to last longer than traditional windows, thanks to their durable materials and construction. This means you’ll need to replace your windows less frequently, saving you money on replacement costs.

Our company, Energy Window Solutions, can help you save money on energy bills. We have several experts who can help you select the right window for your home or business. We also provide professional installation and maintenance services to ensure the windows continue to perform efficiently over time. To learn more of our efficient window solutions, call us today.

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Energy Efficient Windows For Hot Climates

Energy Efficient Windows For Hot Climates

Beneath the relentless blaze of the sun, hot environments demand more than just a refreshing dip in the pool or a sunhat to keep cool. With rising temperatures and energy bills, it’s time to shed some light on a sizzling solution: energy efficient windows. Gone are the days when windows were mere portals to peek outside. Today, they don superhero capes armed with cutting-edge technology to battle the scorching heat and save the planet. These windows are here to rescue you from discomfort and environmental guilt, all while turning heads with their sleek style and energy-saving prowess. This article will explore energy-saving windows and the features that make them perfect for hot areas like Texas.

Choosing the Right Frame

Your choice of window frame plays a crucial role in determining the energy efficiency of your replacement windows, particularly in extreme temperatures. Energy-saving window frames can be made from different aesthetically pleasing and durable materials, such as wood, aluminum, or vinyl.

Vinyl and wood frames stand out as the top performers in terms of energy efficiency. While wood frames tend to be more expensive compared to vinyl, they offer excellent thermal insulation. On the other hand, vinyl frames have gained popularity due to their affordability and impressive energy efficiency.

Why Vinyl Frames Are Best for Hot Climates

A high-quality vinyl frame is perfect for hot areas such as Texas. First of all, unlike wood, vinyl frames don’t rot. Vinyl frames do not chip, fade, swell, or dent, making them highly durable. Additionally, vinyl windows require minimal maintenance, further adding to their appeal.

Vinyl frames offer exceptional performance and maintain their attractive appearance over time. They can replicate the appealing qualities of wood frames without requiring the same level of maintenance. Moreover, when vinyl windows are manufactured and installed correctly, they surpass the most stringent building codes worldwide, ensuring compliance with high construction and safety standards.

In terms of comfort, durability, and energy savings, vinyl windows provide significant value to your home. During hot weather, these windows efficiently keep the heat outside and prevent condensation from forming around and within the window units. By maintaining a pleasant indoor environment, these windows also reduce long-term heating and cooling expenses, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Multiple Panes

The general recommendation for achieving optimal energy efficiency in almost all climate zones is to install double-pane or triple-pane windows. These advanced window systems are designed to create an insulating space between the panes, effectively conserving energy and reducing electricity costs.

To further enhance efficiency, inert gases like argon or krypton are often used as insulators within the glass panes. These gases, denser than air, provide superior insulation properties, resulting in improved energy savings for the windows.

Argon is commonly used for filling the gaps in double-pane energy efficient windows due to its high insulating power and low cost. On the other hand, krypton is used in the narrower spaces between triple glass panes, but it is more expensive than argon as it is rare.

Energy Ratings for Windows

There are three energy ratings to keep track of:

  • U-Factor: The U-Factor is a metric that quantifies the heat transfer rate through a window. A lower numerical value indicates a window’s superior ability to retain heat within a space.
  • Visible Transmittance (VT): Visible transmittance measures how much visible light can pass through a window or glazing system. VT is typically represented as a numerical value ranging from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating greater transparency and more visible light transmitted through the window.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) indicates the amount of solar heat that enters through a window. A lower numerical value indicates a reduced level of solar heat transmission through the window.

High-Visible Transmittance glass enables ample natural light to penetrate a window, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours and leading to energy savings. Energy efficiency experts typically recommend a VT value ranging from 60% to 80% for optimal performance.

In hot climates like Texas, getting windows with the lowest Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is advisable. Using glass with a low SHGC allows only a minimal amount of solar heat to enter a home, reducing air conditioning costs. For homes in hot climates, an SHGC below 0.4 is considered optimal. Additionally, homeowners should get windows with a low U-value to maximize efficiency.

Low-E Glass

Low-E glass, which stands for low emissivity glass, incorporates a specialized coating that effectively blocks a significant portion of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light, while allowing a good portion of visible light to pass through. By regulating and reducing the passage of IR light, Low-E glass effectively restricts heat transfer through the window.

Low-E glass plays a vital role in maintaining the desired temperature within a home and enhancing overall energy efficiency. These windows are gaining popularity, particularly in hot climates, as they effectively prevent UV light and excessive heat from penetrating.

Warm Spacers

Warm spacers are crucial in energy efficient windows for hot climates such as Texas. They are essential in minimizing heat transfer through the window, resulting in consistent temperatures and reduced energy consumption. At Energy Window Solutions, we prioritize the integration of warm spacers into our window designs to ensure the production of high-quality products tailored explicitly for hot climates.

These spacers create a thermal barrier between the glass panes in double or triple-glazed windows. This barrier prevents heat from entering the house during summer while retaining warmth during cooler months. As a result, homeowners can enjoy increased comfort throughout the year and benefit from lower energy bills. In addition to their insulation properties, these windows address dust control, heat reflection, and noise reduction, providing optimal performance in hot climate regions.

Energy Star Certified Windows

Energy Star Certified Windows adhere to rigorous energy efficiency standards and are ideal for hot climates. These windows offer numerous advantages, including lowered energy expenses, enhanced indoor comfort, and increased energy efficiency. Crafted from top-quality glass and frames, they are specifically engineered to minimize solar heat gain and improve insulation, enabling homeowners to maintain a cool and comfortable home environment without air conditioning.

Unlock the Power of Energy Savings: Upgrade to Energy-Saving Windows Today!

In light of the escalating climate crisis and the ever-increasing demand for energy efficiency, we must embrace sustainable solutions with open arms. Energy Window Solutions stands at the forefront of this movement, offering a diverse range of energy efficient windows specifically engineered for hot climates. Our commitment to quality, efficiency, and environmental stewardship ensures you enjoy a cooler, more sustainable indoor environment. Don’t let excessive energy consumption drain your resources or harm the planet. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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How Custom Blinds Enhance Your Home's Aesthetics

How Custom Blinds Enhance Your Home’s Aesthetics

Custom blinds are an excellent way to enhance the aesthetics of your home. They offer many benefits, including privacy, light control, and energy efficiency. Various styles, colors, and materials can complement any home decor and add a touch of elegance to any room.

How Blinds Can Complement Your Home’s Interior Design

Custom blinds are an excellent way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home’s interior design. They offer a unique combination of functionality and style, allowing you to control light and privacy while adding a personal touch to your living space. Below are ways in which they can complement your home’s interior design, making it more visually appealing and comfortable.

Personalized Style

Blinds allow you to choose from various materials, colors, and patterns, ensuring that your window treatments match your home’s decor. This level of personalization helps create a cohesive look throughout your living space, enhancing the overall design and making your home feel more inviting.

Improved Light Control

Blinds provide precise control over the amount of light entering your home. Adjusting the slats or fabric allows you to easily create the perfect ambiance for any room, whether you prefer a bright, sunlit space or a cozy, dimly lit environment. This flexibility in light control contributes to a more comfortable and visually appealing home.

Enhanced Privacy

Blinds offer varying levels of privacy, depending on the material and design you choose. This allows you to maintain your desired level of privacy without sacrificing style or natural light. By selecting the right blinds for each room, you can create a sense of security and seclusion while enjoying a beautifully designed interior.

Energy Efficiency

Blinds can help improve your home’s energy efficiency by reducing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. This makes your living space more comfortable and helps lower your energy bills. Choosing energy-efficient blinds can enhance your home’s interior design and promote sustainability.

Versatility

Blinds are available in various styles, including horizontal, vertical, and even motorized options. This versatility allows you to select the perfect blinds for each room, ensuring that your window treatments complement your home’s interior design and meet your needs.

Easy Maintenance

Blinds are a practical choice for busy households since they’re easy to clean and maintain. By choosing blinds made from durable materials, you can enjoy a stylish and functional window treatment that will look great for years.

Space Illusion

Blinds can help create the illusion of a larger space by drawing the eye upward and adding visual interest to your windows. This can make your rooms feel more spacious and open, creating a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Layering Opportunities

Blinds can be paired with curtains or valances to create a layered look. This adds depth and dimension to your home’s interior design, making it more visually appealing and sophisticated.

Improved Functionality

Blinds can be designed to accommodate unique window shapes and sizes, ensuring that your window treatments are both functional and stylish. This lets you make the most of your home’s architectural features while enjoying Blinds’ benefits.

Noise Reduction

Certain Blinds, such as those made from thick fabrics or materials with insulating properties, can help reduce noise levels in your home. This creates a more peaceful and serene living environment, making your home a more enjoyable place to be.

Selecting the Correct Blinds for Your Home

Blind selection is an important decision that can greatly impact your living space’s overall aesthetic, functionality, and comfort. With various styles, materials, and features available, it can be overwhelming to determine which blinds will best suit your needs. These points will help you make an informed decision when selecting blinds.

Light Control and Privacy

Consider the level of light control and privacy you desire for each room. Some blinds, like room-darkening options, are designed to block out light completely, making them ideal for bedrooms or media rooms. Others, such as sheer or light-filtering blinds, allow natural light to filter through while still providing privacy, making them suitable for living rooms and kitchens.

Material and Durability

The material of your blinds is significant in their durability and maintenance requirements. For instance, wood blinds offer a classic, timeless look but may not be suitable for high-humidity areas like bathrooms. Alternatively, faux wood or aluminum blinds are more moisture-resistant and easier to clean, making them a practical choice for various environments.

Style and Design

Blinds come in various styles, including horizontal, vertical, Roman, and cellular, offering a unique look and functionality. Consider the overall design of your home and the specific room when selecting a style. For example, vertical blinds work well for large windows or sliding doors, while Roman blinds add a touch of elegance to any space. Energy Window Solutions offers various blinds to choose from.

Color and Pattern

Select a pattern or color that complements your existing decor and enhances the room’s atmosphere. Neutral colors like white, beige, or gray are versatile and easily blend with various design schemes. However, bold colors or patterns can make a statement and add visual interest to your space.

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient blinds, such as cellular shades, can help insulate your home by trapping air in their honeycomb-shaped cells. This feature can reduce heat transfer, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and potentially lowering energy bills. Energy Window Solutions provides energy-efficient blinds suitable for your needs.

Safety Features

If you have young children or pets, prioritize blinds with safety features such as cordless or motorized operation to eliminate the risk of entanglement in cords.

If you want to enhance your home’s aesthetics with custom blinds, look no further than Energy Window Solutions. Our team of experts can help you choose the perfect blinds to complement your home decor and provide practical solutions for your window treatment needs. We’re confident that we can help you find the ideal blinds to transform the look and feel of your space. Call us today to schedule a consultation and take your initial steps toward enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your house with custom blinds.

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Get The Lowdown On Low-E Glass: What It Is And How It Affects Energy Efficient Windows

Get The Lowdown On Low-E Glass: What It Is And How It Affects Energy Efficient Windows

Window technology has come a long way from the thin sheet of glass that could barely keep out the cold. In a bid to lower energy consumption, energy efficient windows appeared on the scene.

Today, you hear of thermal, gas-filled, multiple-pane, and low-E windows. The options are many, and there is confusion, as well.

This blog attempts to shed some light on a term you might have heard or seen on a window label. Find out more about low-E windows and how energy efficient they are.

What Is Low-E Glass?

Low-E or low-emissivity glass is a window pane covered by a thin, transparent coating. Low-E coating consists of metal oxides and other elements that reflect UV rays and infrared light. The coating is applied in microscopic layers and is practically invisible.

Low-E glass slows down or blocks solar heat transfer while allowing natural light to pass through. In multiple-pane windows, the coating can be on the exterior or interior. When applied inside a pane, the layer acts as insulation, preventing interior heat from escaping. This keeps your home warmer during winter. On the exterior, low-E films reflect the solar heat, keeping you cool during summer.

Some double-pane windows do not have a low-E coating. Instead, they feature a thin sheet between the two panes that provides reflection and insulation. These windows can be as efficient as triple-pane windows for a slightly lower cost.

Types of Low-E Glass

Low-emissivity glass first came to the market in the late 70s, when energy efficiency became a serious topic. Its primary focus was to retain heat and let the sunlight in. Initially made for colder climates of the north, the technology soon advanced to include options for warmer regions.

Today, all energy efficient windows have a low-E coating. For windows that do not have low-E, like single or double-pane windows in older homes, you can get adhesive low-E films.

There are two major types of low-E coatings. The difference majorly lies within their manufacture, as each is made for a different climate.

  • Hard Coats (Passive): Hard low-E coats allow infrared light, and solar heat, to enter a home but prevent it from escaping. By keeping warm air inside, it reduces the need for constant heating. Passive coatings are suitable for colder regions, where heat retention can help reduce heating costs.
  • Soft Coats (Solar Control): Soft low-E coats do the opposite. They block infrared sunlight and keep heat absorption at a minimum. Because minimal solar heat enters a building, ACs don’t have to work overtime. Solar coatings also block UV light.

Low-E coatings on windows differ between manufacturers and between climate zones. To fully understand the effectiveness of the layer, check for the NFRC label on a window. The label breaks down window performance based on several factors.

Advantages of Low-E Glass

The many benefits of low-E glass have made them popular with homeowners looking for energy efficient windows.

Energy Efficiency

Low-E coatings reduce heat transfer by trapping it inside or preventing it from entering your home. This translates to less energy consumed by heating and cooling systems. But how much energy can low-E coatings save? The Department of Energy (DOE) states that low-E coatings can reduce energy waste through windows by 30 to 40 percent. It might seem small, but over the lifetime of a window, it can quickly add up. You can expect much higher savings when replacing inefficient, single-pane windows.

Better Insulation

Low-E glass increases a window’s insulation properties. It helps keep indoor temperatures constant, and you don’t have to adjust the thermostat as often. You can comfortably sit near a window and won’t be affected by whatever the weather has in store.

UV Protection

Solar low-E coatings block not only the sun’s heat but also the harmful UV rays. Ultraviolet rays are harmful to the skin and fade carpets and furniture. According to the DOE, low-E glass can reduce fading caused by UV light by up to 75 percent. Your furnishings will last longer, and you won’t have to replace them as often.

Disadvantages of Low-E Glass

Low-E coatings have some drawbacks that have cast a shadow on their usefulness.

Reduced Natural Light

Low-E coatings block a lot of light, which reduces the amount of natural light entering your home. Some may see this as a benefit; others prefer to have as much light as possible. Houseplants placed near low-E windows may die due to the lack of sunlight. Due to its reflective abilities, low-E glass can appear blue, green, or brown, which affects visibility even more.

Side Effects of Reflection

The metal components in low-E glass can affect cell phone reception. It’s not a big problem in most cases but should be considered in this tech-driven world. Outside the home, the deflected sun rays can affect the siding and other things close to the windows.

Costly

Although low-E windows are widely available, they are still more expensive than non-coated glass. They may not be the best option for every budget. The energy savings may offset that cost, but that depends on the type of window you are replacing.

Providing Energy Efficiency for Every Budget

Energy Window Solutions specializes in providing customers with high-quality yet cost-effective window services. Fenestration has been our business for over 30 years, during which we have continued to perfect our craft. Our window products are known for their durability, quality, and efficiency. Contact Energy Window Solutions today to learn more.

Some Things to Consider

Having a low-E coating does not automatically make a window energy-efficient. It is just one of the factors that make up energy efficient windows. Other aspects to consider are framing, glazing, gas fillings, and spacers. The most important factor is installation.

The most highly rated window would be useless if it isn’t properly installed. Hiring a professional installer will ensure your windows are sufficiently insulated, fit securely, and last long.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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