How To Choose Energy Efficient Windows | Southlake, TX
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Are you looking to make your home more energy efficient? Perhaps you want to improve the look of your home while at the same time reducing your energy bills? One of the ways you can save both money and energy is to invest in some energy efficient windows. If you live in Southlake, TX, or the surrounding area and are searching for energy efficient windows don’t hesitate to contact Energy Window Solutions, the company can provide you with customized replacement windows in a variety of styles. This article will look at the things you need to consider when choosing energy efficient windows.
Things to Consider When Choosing New Energy Efficient Windows
A recent survey by the U.S. Department of Energy found that in the average home, around 30% of the heat is lost through the windows. By ensuring your windows are kept in reasonable condition, you can cut back on your energy and heating bills while reducing air leakage. Investing in new windows is an excellent way to make your home more energy efficient, and many homeowners find that they can recoup the initial investment within a relatively short space of time.
Investing in new windows could benefit your whole family, it could also improve your quality of life by getting rid of draughts and allowing you to have greater control over the temperature of the room. Good quality windows will also help to reduce noise pollution, and this is particularly beneficial if you live near a busy road or school.
Energy Star Rating
If you’re looking for energy efficient windows, you should check that it’s been given an Energy Star rating. These are ratings assigned by the National Fenestration Rating Council, which proves that products such as windows, doors, and skylights are energy efficient. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency runs the energy Star scheme. There are different ratings available, and products with a lower number are more energy-efficient. Windows are rated on factors such as solar heat gain and air leakage as well as visible transmittance.
Homeowners should also consider the climate in their state when choosing an energy efficient window as there are different climate zones across America.
Window Type
There are several different types of windows on the market. These include single or double hung, sliding and casement. Before deciding on the kind of window, you should consider how likely it is to leak air.
Single or double hung windows have either an upper or lower sash, which is a movable portion of the window which is used to open it. Sliding windows have sashes that are easily opened by sliding horizontally, whereas a casement window is hinged at the side.
While double-hung windows have become the most popular choice amongst homeowners in recent years, they are not the most energy efficient. Double hung windows are more likely to leak air than awning or casement windows. Sliding windows aren’t very energy efficient either as they also leak air. However, many homeowners still prefer double hung or sliding windows as they are more functional.
Frame
The window frame helps to provide your home with insulation, so it’s essential to consider what type of frame is suitable for the climate you live in. If you’re searching for an energy efficient window, choose one that has a vinyl or fiberglass frame as these provide substantial energy efficiency.
Wooden frames can also prove to be well insulated, but they are likely to require more maintenance. You should avoid windows with metal frames if you’re looking to make your home more energy efficient as these encourage heat loss.
Number of Panes of Glass
Modern windows have been designed to be more energy efficient; they are usually double- or triple-paned, which helps to reduce heat loss. If you live in an older house that has its original windows, you’ll likely have single pane windows. Replacing any single paned windows will help to reduce energy loss and will, therefore, cut down your energy bills.
Coating
Energy efficient windows that have energy Star-ratings have been given three coats of low-emissivity, also known as Low-E glazing. These types of treatments help to reduce the amount of sunlight that’s able to come through the window. If you live in a sweltering climate, this will help to reduce your air conditioning bill, as fewer UV rays and, therefore, heat will get through the coatings.
For windows that have little or no direct sunlight, or if you have a home in a colder climate, your windows will require fewer coats of Low-E glazing to stop your property from feeling darker.
Spacers
If you choose to have double or triple glazing, there will be a space between each pane of glass. This is used to keep the glass in the correct place. Spacers also help to keep windows airtight and reduce condensation, especially between the panes of glass. Spacers can be made from a variety of different materials, but are most commonly stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone foam.
Energy efficient windows also have gas between each pane of glass, and this helps to reduce heat transfer. The two most common types of gas used are krypton and argon gas.
Energy Efficient Windows
If you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency and save money on your utility bill by replacing your windows, contact Energy Window Solutions today. The company has a wide selection of Energy Star windows available; they are a BBB accredited business and have achieved an A+. As well as windows, Energy Window Solutions can install doors, gutters, and siding to your home.
If you live in the Southlake, TX area and are looking for energy efficient windows, don’t hesitate to contact Energy Window Solutions today on 972-290-1848.