Windows in Plano, TX: What You Should Know to Minimize Heat Losses
Are you looking around for new windows in Plano, TX? Yes, aesthetics is important, and your chosen windows should definitely complement well with the rest of the decor. But considering your comfort and energy bills are concerned, insulation also plays a part. A research claims that windows generate energy losses worth$3 billion every year. Astounding, isn’t it? But then one point is absolutely clear here: if you don’t carefully choose windows in Plano, TX, you’ll end up paying higher energy bills.
Completely replacing your units with windows in Plano, TX is an option. But if this is out of budget, you can make small, affordable changes that can significantly affect your bills.
We’ll first take a look at some consideration factors when choosing windows in Plano, TX and then talk about what other measures you can take to decrease heat losses and energy bills.
Signs that indicate you should replace your windows
If you notice any of the signs, it’s time to think about replacing your windows in Plano, TX.
- Decaying or moldy wood
- Sagging frames
- Condensation buildup during the winter season
- Frequent rattling when winds blow
- Differences in temperature for the area in front of the window and the rest of the room
Don’t notice any of these signs, but still feel heat losses are significant? Get in touch with us at Energy Window Solutions, and we’ll offer an effective solution.
Window Materials
Windows in Plano, TX are made from a variety of materials, which significantly affects their performance. We’ll only list the four most popular ones here.
Wood
Wood offers excellent insulative properties, but also demands more maintenance compared to other options. This material contracts and expands in varying weather conditions like cold, heat and humidity.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a durable material for windows in Plano, TX. Generally, these windows have air cavities between the panes which can be filled up with inert gases like argon or another insulativematerial to minimize heat loses.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the strongest materials for windows, and requires little to no maintenance. But aluminum falls behind in terms of energy efficiency when compared to other suitable window materials, and hence, many not be a good choice.
Vinyl
Vinyl is another popular choice for windows in Plano, TX because it easy to clean and maintain. Plus, it resists moisture and doesn’t break down when exposed to extended or intense UV rays.
Design Options
What choices do you have in terms of design when buying or replacing windows in Plano, TX? Let’s take a look.
Sliding
As the name implies, these windows glide over a framed track. Only one side of the window can be opened at any instance.
Double hung
Double hung is a common design for windows in Plano, TX. Windows of these sort comprise of two frames which overlap in the middle of the opening; one of them slides up and the other slides down.
Hopper
Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom edge of the frame, and open when swung outwards.
Single Hung
Single hung windows are similar to double hung windows discussed above. They also have two frames, but only the bottom one of them is moveable, whereas the above one remains fixed in place.
Casement
Casement is another popular style for windows in Plano, TX. These windows comprise of two panelshinged at each end and openable from the other side. Usually, a hand crank is fixed.
Awning
Awning windows are hinged at the top edge and open when swung outside.
Bay and Bow
Windows of these sort are set in a frame which protrudes outwards, providing greater space in the room while maximizing the views.
Fixed
As the name implies, fixed windows in Plano, TX are fixed and cannot be opened. They offer maximum insulation, and are only installed to let in light.
Simple ways to minimize heat losses
Think new windows aren’t an affordable option right now? Here are some tips which will help you improve your window performance.
- Caulking: Getting the gaps and cracks between the opening and frame filled up with caulk is a good way to improve insulation and retain heat. Also ask the window repair professionals to fix weather stripping over moveable window parts.
- Plastic film: You can get your windows covered with a thin plastic film to reduce heat losses in the winter season. This is effective only if sealed properly, so do take help from the pros.
- Window treatments: Drapes, blinds and awnings are great ways to improve window performancewithout incurring significant costs. Awnings are available in different materials like wood, metal and acrylic, and can provide over 75% protection from solar gain. Blind reduce heat gains by 45%. If you choose medium colors, neither too light nor too dark or get plastic backings, both heat gains and losses are impacted.
- Storm Windows: Storm windows are installed over existing windows either on the outside or the inside. Another material layer is added to the frame soas to reduce air movement. These windows are made up from laminated glass or plastic, and are more affordable than a complete window replacement.
If you’re replacing your windows in Plano, TX
Whenyourwindows are too old and the frames have sagged, you should think about replacing them. Moreover, old windows often have a single pane glass, whereas the latest windows now boast of the low-E triple pane glass, which can reduce solar gain significantly. Double pane glass is another popular option for windows in Plano, TX.
Double and triple window panes comprise of multiple glass sheets between which spacer bars are fixed. The sheets are completely sealed, forming an air space between the panes. When greater insulation is required, this empty space is filled with xenon, argon or krypton. Panes may also be coated with a special low E coating.
Whether you want to improve the performance of your existing window or buy new windows in Plano, TX, Energy Window Solutions can help you out. Visit our website for further details.