Custom windows are designed to complement the architectural style of your home and boost its energy efficiency. They can also improve aesthetics, reduce noise and infiltration and preserve the authenticity of your house’s appearance.
There are many window companies that offer a wide variety of services including installation, repair and replacement. Some of them even have their own showrooms where you can check out the different windows they have on display.
Energy Star
ENERGY STAR certified windows are an excellent way to save on energy costs and improve comfort. They can also contribute to greater thermal performance and sustainability. Many utility companies offer incentives for upgrading to these types of windows. Check with your local utility company for more information.
When shopping for ENERGY STAR windows, look for whole-unit U-factor and SHGC ratings rather than center-of-glass numbers. These ratings more accurately reflect a window’s energy performance.
The best ENERGY STAR window options include triple pane windows with specialized gases between each layer of glass. Other top choices include double-pane and wood-framed windows with Low-E coatings and thermal breaks. Regardless of which type of window you choose, it’s important to install them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Otherwise, they won’t perform as well.
Low-E glass
Low-E glass is a popular window option for homeowners who want to save energy. The specialized coating works all year long to reduce heat transfer and keep homes comfortable. It also helps save money on utility bills and improves home resale value.
The coating on the windows reflects long-wave infrared radiation from the sun, helping to maintain indoor temperatures. This can significantly lower heating and cooling costs. It can also help to prevent the fading of carpets and furniture from UV rays.
However, there are some potential issues with this type of glass. When the sunlight reflects off the windows, it can cause hot spots in buildings. Some solutions to this problem include planting bushes and trees to shield siding from the windows’ reflections or using awnings.
Argon or Krypton gas-filled
Adding noble gases like Argon or Krypton to the space between your window panes increases insulation and energy efficiency significantly. These gases are much heavier than air and slow down heat transfer, thus helping to reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems. They also improve sound-dampening properties, making your home quieter and more comfortable.
The most popular choice is argon gas, which is affordable and effective at reducing heat loss. It’s used in most double-pane windows and in some triple-pane models. Krypton is even denser than argon and acts as an excellent insulator, but it’s also more expensive.
Both are safe, clear, and odorless and won’t react with other materials in your home. Xenon is more expensive still and reserved for specialized applications.
Solar control
Solar control glass uses special coatings to reflect a proportion of the sun’s heat, keeping internal spaces cooler while still allowing plenty of natural light. This allows buildings to remain comfortable during hot weather, reducing stress on air conditioning systems, and protecting floors, furnishings, and paint finishes.
Solar control windows are often used in double or triple-glazed insulating glass units (IGUs) and offer a high level of energy performance. These are the best option for reducing air-conditioning costs and improving comfort for building occupants. They can also reduce noise levels. Triple-pane windows have three layers of glass with argon or krypton gas fill between them, providing even greater energy efficiency. This type of window is ideal for new construction or replacement applications. However, they may limit design options.
Thermal breaks
A thermal break is an insulating strip of non-metallic material placed between the interior and exterior aluminum profile of a window frame. It prevents heat and cold from transmitting between the two, significantly reducing energy loss and condensation issues.
Commercial buildings benefit greatly from thermally broken windows, which improve the comfort of occupants and reduce heating and cooling bills. They also help maintain temperature control in sensitive facilities like data centers, eliminating hot or cold spots and minimizing condensation and mold growth.
In addition to saving money on energy costs, thermally broken steel windows are durable and require minimal maintenance. They also provide a timeless look that enhances the appearance of any home or business. They can be customized based on aesthetic, climatic, and safety needs.