Although it may surprise homeowners, anyone who has done the research knows just how impactful energy efficient windows can be on your monthly heating bill. As an access point to the outside world, windows are the perfect place for hot and cold air to leak into your house from the outside. Luckily, there are a number of steps that you can take to make your windows as energy efficient and insulated as possible.
Anyone who is looking for replacement windows in Austin TX is urged to contact Zen Windows for all of their window replacement needs. These professionals have the tools and knowledge to keep your house as energy efficient as possible.
If you are looking for replacement windows, you should definitely look for the most energy efficient option available. Not only will this create a more comfortable environment inside your home, but you will save a great deal of money in the long run. Think of your new windows as an investment, as you should only need to replace your windows once every few decades if you are lucky.
Frame Type
Vinyl
While it may be seen as a budget material, vinyl window frames are a practical choice for a number of reasons. First, they will be much less expensive than most other types of window frames. This doesn’t mean that they are any less insulative, as they will have barely any air leakage. Unfortunately vinyl window frames are difficult to find in different colors, so they may not work with every decor.
Wood
Wooden window frames excel at keeping the window insulated. They do not transfer hot or cold air very well making them perfect for the job. Also, they look great and can last for generations as long as they are properly taken care of. If you live in a rainy/humid environment you may want to stay away from wood, as the moisture can cause the frame to warp as time goes on.
Aluminum
Aluminum frames will get the job done, but they won’t insulate as well as a window frame made from different materials. Typically, you will find these in rainy climates since they are nearly impervious to weather damage. These frames can certainly work, but they are not the most energy efficient option out there.
Glass
The glass itself can greatly affect the overall energy efficiency of a window. Different types of glass will perform better than others, but they may not be necessary for every situation. We’ll go over exactly what you should look out for when it comes to choosing the glass panes for your windows.
Single Pane
As its name would suggest, single pane windows are made with a single sheet of glass. These entry-level windows are not great at insulating, so keep that in mind. However, they will certainly work just fine for anyone in a mild climate.
Double Pane
This is where you start to see a lot more options open up. Double pane windows feature two sheets of glass with a small space between them. This allows much less heat or cold air to be transferred outside, making them incredibly energy efficient. Ideally, you should look for low-E glass that is vacuum sealed and filled with argon. This creates an extra insulative barrier right between the window panes.
Installation
Finally, don’t overlook the importance of proper installation. Even the most expensive window unit won’t perform effectively if it’s not installed correctly. Despite its lower price, a properly sealed and installed vinyl window frame will outperform others that have been poorly installed. This is where you really want to look for the assistance of professionals.
Whether you are looking to update or replace your windows to improve efficiency, you should hire a window replacement service. This will make the entire process quick and easy, and ensures that your windows will be as energy efficient as possible. Simple details like caulking can lead to disasters down the road if it is not done properly right from the start.
Hopefully by now you have a better idea of the factors that can reduce the energy efficiency of certain windows, and can make an educated choice for your next set of replacement windows. Just remember to seek help along the way so that these are the last windows you will ever have to invest in.
