Technologies And Types Of Energy Efficient Windows | San Marcos, TX
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In the US, installing energy efficient products, including windows and skylights, in homes can reduce heating and cooling energy bills and the carbon footprint by approximately 12 percent.
Energy efficient windows feature multiple characteristics and technologies, making them more durable, beautiful, and productive than conventional windows. Consider seeking help from a professional if you wish to upgrade to energy saving windows or you want to install them in your new residential building in San Marcos, TX.
The expert should explain in detail some of the features you should look out for when buying these windows. These features include frame materials, type of glazing, spacers, gas fills, and operation type. Let’s dive into an in-depth discussion of the technologies and types of windows to help you acquire the best quality products for your home.
Frames
Boosting the quality of the thermal efficiency of a window frame can positively impact the standard of the window’s efficiency, its U-factor in particular. U-factor is the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat and it’s usually demonstrated in Btu/(h·ft2·°F) units. Each material frame has its pros and cons, but wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and some composite materials have higher thermal resistance capabilities than metal.
Aluminum and metal frames are strong and maintenance-free, but they conduct heat quickly, making them bad insulators. A professional should insert a plastic strip in between the outside and inside of the frame and sash. It enables regulation of the U-factor and heat flowing through these windows. Fiberglass frames entail air cavities where insulation can be filled, and this makes them surpass uninsulated vinyl and wood frames in terms of thermal performance.
You may get frustrated because of frequently replacing your metal and aluminum window frames for being defective and causing high heating and cooling bills. You can request a professional to advise you about the framing materials for energy efficient windows available in the market. After purchasing the exact windows you need, the experts will install them carefully and professionally to ensure they work more efficiently than the traditional ones you previously had.
Glass or Glazing
You need to select the necessary type of glazing or glass to improve the level of energy efficiency in your home. You may have to pick different glazing types throughout your home based on multiple factors, including building design, climate, and window orientation. Some of the energy efficient glazing types you may find in the market include double and triple-paned windows with gas fills and low emittance coatings.
An energy efficient window expert can help you identify the best design and number of panes for your home after assessing the architecture of the house and the climate zone it is located in. Some of the coating technologies these windows possess include spectrally selective and low-emissivity coatings.
Windows with low-E usually cost about 10 to 15 percent more than conventional windows but save at least 30 to 50 percent of heating and cooling energy lost through windows. Spectrally selective coatings reflect specific wavelengths and leave others to pass through. These coatings help to create windows with a high VT and low SHGC and U-factor. These features can seem hard to understand until you look for a provider of energy efficient window services to explain in detail.
Gas Fills and Spacers
Double and triple-pane energy efficient windows have spaces between the glasses. These spaces are usually referred to as gas fills and are filled with either Argon or Krypton gas. These gases have eco-friendly features such as being inert, odorless, clear, and no-toxic. Although more expensive, Krypton has greater thermal performance than argon. Krypton is used when the spacing between panes is a quarter an inch while argon is suitable for half-inched spaces.
The function of spacers ensures the distance between panes is kept intact. Additionally, spacers make it possible for these windows to accommodate pressure differences and thermal expansion. Spacers also play a big role in curbing moisture and gas leaks making the windows work effectively. Some of the types of spacers include metal, stainless steel, aluminum, and silicon rubber.
Operation Types
This technology makes these windows superior to traditional ones in terms of energy-saving, durability, and efficiency. You should consult with a window specialist to help you pick the desired operation type for your San Marcos, TX, home from the wide selection available. The operation type you pick will determine the level of performance displayed by your home’s energy efficient windows. Some of the operation types include:
i) Awning
This design comprises windows that are open outward and hinged at the top. Awning windows generally have fewer leakage issues because this sash closes by pressing against the window frame.
ii) Hopper
Just like the awning and casement windows, sashes of hopper windows close by pressing against the frame, making them less susceptible to air leakage. These windows are hinged at the bottom and they open inward. They are easy to clean and maintain since your window specialist will easily access them from the inside of your home
iii) Casement
Casement windows are hinged at the sides, and just like the awning windows, they possess low air leakage characteristics, contrary to sliding windows that can make you spend a lot on heating and cooling your home.
It’s crucial to consult with a specialist of energy efficient windows before going to purchase them. It can be so heartbreaking to realize you purchased substandard energy efficient windows at the price of the ENERGY STAR-rated ones. Avoid this inconvenience by involving a certified window expert in your area.
Get Professional Window Solutions Today!
First Place Windows has been in business for over 12 years, serving homeowners in San Marcos, TX, seeking top-of-the-line window services. Its professionals are well-versed with installation, repairs, and replacement of standard and energy efficient windows.
Don’t hesitate if you wish to upgrade to energy efficient windows after spending a lot on heating and cooling bills. We will assess your needs, suggest the best energy efficient windows for your home, and offer quality installation services.