Interested in Efficiency Windows? Follow These Simple Tips
Replacement windows provide homeowners with a more efficient — and better looking — home. However, homeowners must take several important considerations into account before making a window purchase. The most important factors include the following elements listed below.
Important Features to Consider
Replacement windows typically have a multitude of elements that make them different from other models. For example, windows with ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels provide a higher level of insulation than many other window types. Typically, these models also have low-E coatings to decrease heat loss further.
Just as importantly, homeowners need to seek out windows with a low solar heat gain coefficient, or SHGC. This rating measures how much UV radiation travels through a window and lower levels ensure that a home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Considerations That Are Easy to Miss
Although the considerations mentioned above are the most common to consider, other window aspects do exist. For example, the gas used between the panes often varies between different window models. Typically, windows use argon or krypton gas for this process. Each of these gases has various benefits, such as more efficient insulating powers at higher altitudes.
Just as importantly, homeowners must consider the window glazing. Glazing goes on the glass of a window to provide maximum efficiency. Types include single, double, and triple glazing as well as tinted glazing, high-solar-gain glazing, and much more. The many varieties may confuse homeowners without consultation from a professional.
Frame Materials Matter
Though efficiency windows come with many different types of frames, the material type does matter. For example, vinyl window frames provide one of the highest levels of insulation, ensuring that a home doesn’t experience high levels of heat loss. Just as importantly, these frames typically have a reasonable cost.
Other frames, such as wood and fiberglass, provide high levels of insulation. However, wood is prone to moisture- and temperature-related problems while fiberglass is relatively expensive. So make sure to balance a home improvement budget when choosing the best replacement windows.
Pane Number Matters
High-quality replacement windows typically come with more than one pane of glass. For example, some efficiency models come with two panes with a thin layer of gas between each pane. This gas minimizes heat loss and improves a window’s efficiency, particularly when UV rays fall directly on the window pane.
However, triple-pane windows provide even more efficiency protection by adding another layer of insulating gas. While these window models will cost more than double-pane models, the extra efficiency is typically more than worth the additional cost.
Seek out a window installer who fully understands these window types to further improve the installation process.
Professional Installation Is Critical
Individuals with some home repair skills may try to add windows to their home on their own. Don’t make this mistake; too many minor insulation problems can complicate this procedure. For example, improperly or poorly applied seals may cause heat loss and decrease a window’s efficiency by a severe level.
Avoid this issue by always working with a professional window installation company. And, just as importantly, try to find a seller that installs the windows themselves instead of using a subcontractor. This step minimizes the number of intermediaries in the process and usually saves the homeowner money.
Contact Us for Installation Help
If you want to get high-quality efficiency windows in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us at Central Glass Company right away to learn more. Our experts will help you choose the best windows for your needs and will also work hard to ensure that each of these installation tips is followed as much as desired.