If improving your home’s energy efficiency is important to you, then installing replacement windows with insulated features is an effective way to reduce your heating and cooling costs. Different types of window insulation serve different functions, with some blocking light, some blocking airflow, and others preventing the heat transfer process that allows heat to flow from one material to another. If you’re wondering which energy efficient options are available for your new window installation, there are plenty of great options to consider.
What Does Insulated Mean?
Insulated glass windows feature two or more glass panes that reduce heat transfer to or from your home. Metal or foam spacers separate the glass panes, and some manufacturers use argon or krypton gas between them for extra thermal protection. The frame that goes around your window also helps to provide insulation to your home.
Which Windows Provide the Most Insulation?
Energy efficient windows can reduce the amount of heat loss in your home by about 25%, but how do you know which windows provide the most energy efficiency? While shopping for replacement windows, look for the Energy Star® and NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) label. Energy Star® certifies that the window meets current energy efficiency standards, while the NFRC label demonstrates that the window prevents heat transfer and blocking sunlight.
You can also look for these ratings on the NFRC label to tell you the amount of energy efficiency.
U-Factor-A window’s U-factor determines how much heat transfers through it. A lower U-factor is more energy efficient because it’s better at preventing heat loss.
SHGC- Solar heat gain coefficient measures the amount of sunlight that can penetrate through it.
What are Some Benefits of Insulated Windows?
If you’re considering a new window installation, there are numerous benefits associated with installing insulated windows.
Energy Efficiency
Insulated windows help control heat transfer in and out of your home, allowing you and your family to be more comfortable throughout the year. With the ability to regulate temperature, insulated windows also take some of the strain off of your HVAC system. Heating and cooling make up about 41% of your home’s energy expenditure, so installing replacement windows with double-pane glass can be helpful when it comes to reducing your monthly heating and cooling costs.
Safety and Security
Since double-pane windows are thicker than standard windows, they’re much more durable against impact related damage. You can enjoy more peace of mind that your new insulated windows are more secure.
Noise Reduction
In addition to controlling the transfer of heat, insulated windows also reduce sound transfer, making your home a quiet place to relax and unwind. The thick glass panes help to trap sound, keeping the noise from your neighbors and the outdoors outside, as well as providing you with a greater sense of privacy inside your home.
Sunlight Damage Protection
Double-pane windows reduce the amount of sunlight coming into your home. Sun rays may damage your furniture and flooring over time, so insulated windows can help your belongings maintain their color and value.
Environmentally Friendly
Insulated windows help reduce the energy consumption in your home by allowing fewer carbon emissions, leaving less of an impact on the planet. For the energy conscious homeowner, insulated windows are an eco-friendly option.
Hire a Professional
In addition to investing in insulated windows, it’s absolutely essential to hire a skilled professional to perform the new window installation in order to receive the highest amount of energy efficiency benefits. Contact your local, trusted window professionals at Armorvue Home Exteriors today for a virtual appointment.
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