How To Choose Window Frames For Your Energy Efficient Windows | Dallas, TX
When it comes to energy efficiency, the window frame material you select is important. The wrong window frame can undo all of the energy efficiency that your new windows provide. If you’re looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient, start by selecting the right window frames. This article will discuss what to look for in energy efficient windows frames and some of the most popular materials used to construct them.
Types of Window Frames
There are three main types of window frames: wood, composite, and metal. Here’s a quick rundown of each:
Solid Wood Frames
Solid wood frames are perhaps the most traditional option available. They’re made from, you guessed it, solid wood—usually pine, fir, or mahogany. Solid wood frames are durable and tend to last a long time if properly cared for. They can also be refinished or painted if you ever want to change the look of your energy efficient windows. Wood is a great insulator and does a great job of trapping heat in your home during winter and keeping it out during summer. On the downside, solid wood frames are susceptible to rot and insect damage if they’re not properly sealed and maintained. They may also need to be regularly repainted or resealed to protect them from moisture damage.
Composite Frames
Composite frames are made from a mixture of wood fibers and synthetic materials. They offer the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of wood with the low-maintenance benefits of synthetic materials. Composite frames are also very strong and durable, making them a good choice for homes in areas with high winds or severe weather conditions. Composite frames can also be painted or stained to match the look of your home’s exterior. However, they’re relatively expensive and may be difficult to repair if they’re ever damaged.
Metal Frames
Metal frames are usually made from aluminum or steel. Metal frames are very strong and durable, making them a good choice for homes in areas with high winds or severe weather conditions. They’re also low-maintenance and won’t rot, warp, or crack over time like wood frames. On the downside, metal frames conduct heat well, so they may not be the best choice if you live in a climate with extreme temperatures. They’re also susceptible to corrosion if not properly sealed and maintained.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Energy-Efficient Window Frames
Thermal Conductivity
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting an energy efficient window frame is the material’s thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts heat. The lower the thermal conductivity of a material, the better it is at insulating against heat transfer. As a result, frames with low thermal conductivity are better at preventing heat from escaping through the energy efficient windows in winter and entering the home in summer.
Common window frame materials like wood and fiberglass all have relatively low thermal conductivities. As a result, they’re good choices for energy-efficient window frames. However, aluminum has much higher thermal conductivity than these other materials. As a result, aluminum frames are not as good at energy efficiency as other options.
Reuse & Recycle
One way to make your Dallas, TX, home more energy-efficient is to reuse and recycle existing materials whenever possible—including windows! When the window frame is made of reusable materials, not only will this help reduce waste in landfills, but it will also help conserve the energy used to create the original window frame. Therefore, when choosing energy-efficiency window frames, try to select materials that can be reused or recycled. For example, aluminum window frames can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, making them a more sustainable option than other frames. Similarly, wooden window frames can be reused in other applications, such as building fences or creating compost bins.
Furthermore, aluminum and wood are strong and durable materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions. As a result, they are good choices for window frames that need to stand up to the elements. Ultimately, when selecting energy efficient windows frames, homeowners in Dallas, TX should consider reusability and recyclability to make the most sustainable choice.
Air Sealing
Another important factor to consider when selecting an energy efficient window frame is how well the frame seals against air leaks. A good air seal will prevent warm air from escaping through the windows in winter and cool air entering the home in summer. As a result, an airtight window frame will help improve the overall energy efficiency of your home.
A few different ways to determine how well a window frame seals against air leaks. One way is to look for ENERGY STAR®-certified windows. The EPA has independently tested and certified these windows to meet strict energy efficiency standards. Furthermore, many ENERGY STAR®-certified energy efficient windows come with an air tightness warranty, guaranteeing that the window will remain airtight for a certain period. Another way to determine how well a frame seal is to look for windows certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC is an independent organization that tests and rates windows based on energy efficiency. To be certified by the NFRC, energy efficient windows must meet certain standards.
Choose Window Frames Carefully
When choosing an energy-efficient window, the frame is just as important as the glass. With so many different materials on the market, choosing the one that’s right for your needs is important. You should also consult a professional to ensure your window frame is properly sealed against air leaks.
We Are the Window Services Professional to Consult
If you are looking for help with window frames in Dallas, TX, please contact our Energy Window Solutions team. We are the experts in helping homeowners select the right windows and doors for their homes. Our team can help you choose energy efficient windows that suit your needs and budget. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.