Energy-efficient windows Dallas TX slash utility bills, reduce strain on HVAC systems, and keep your home comfortable. Read on to learn how they work, what options are available, and how you can make the best choice for your home.
Double-pane and triple-pane windows with insulating air between each pane can cut costs while making your home cozy. In addition, low-emissivity coatings and advanced spacer systems can maximize efficiency.
Inert Gas Fills
One of the key features that distinguish energy-efficient windows from traditional models is their double or triple pane construction. This allows the windows to regulate temperatures more effectively, helping to cut heating and cooling costs.
Inert gas fills (argon or krypton) displace the air between window panes, enhancing a windows insulating properties. Argon is typically preferred because it’s non-toxic, odorless and inexpensive. It also offers 6% more insulation efficiency than using air alone between window panes.
However, it’s important to note that modern IGUs leak about 1% of their inert gas every year. This is no reason to avoid them, but it does mean that they need to be refilled every couple of years. This is an additional cost that can add up quickly.
Fiberglass Frames
For architects and designers seeking solutions that go beyond aluminum, vinyl or wood frame fenestration in terms of strength, durability and energy efficiency, fiberglass is the answer. It’s also a great choice for homeowners wanting to lower their energy bills and enhance the beauty of their homes.
Fiberglass frames are insulators that help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They’re also strong and durable, able to resist harsh weather conditions without warping or fading over time. They have low thermal conductivity, meaning they don’t transfer heat as easily as other materials. They’re also virtually maintenance-free, needing only a quick wipe down to maintain their appearance.
Composite Frames
Composite frames combine external aluminium with inner timber to look good in a range of home styles. These frames are durable, easy to maintain and highly resistant to corrosion.
Energy efficient replacement windows help to minimize thermal energy transfer, keeping your home more comfortable year round. This reduces the workload on heating and cooling systems, which helps to lower energy bills.
Energy-efficient windows also improve curb appeal and add value to your Dallas home, making them a smart investment. When shopping for new windows, look for features like multiple panes of glass, argon or krypton gas fills and low-E coatings. Also, pay attention to the insulating value of the frame materials. The lower the u-factor rating, the better the insulating properties of the window.
Low-E Coatings
Energy efficient windows Dallas TX use low-e coatings to minimize thermal transfer. Combined with insulating gases like argon and double or triple panes, these components help you maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without increasing the workload of your heating and cooling systems.
These microscopic metallic layers are able to reflect heat back into the home during colder months and prevent solar thermal radiation from passing through in the summer, helping you save on energy costs while also protecting your furniture and flooring from harmful UV radiation.
There are hard coat and soft coat low-e options, which differ in their level of performance. Both offer great energy efficiency and UV protection, but the soft coating is more susceptible to damage, so it needs to be enclosed within a double-glazed unit for longevity.
Advanced Spacer Systems
Besides the benefits of double pane glass, Low-E coatings and insulating argon, window frame construction plays an important role in energy efficiency. The spacers that separate the windows’ glass panes must be durable, sturdy and offer a strong thermal seal.
Maverick Window’s Intercept warm-edge spacer uses a polymer structural foam for superior durability and energy efficiency. It minimizes heat conduction, allowing your home to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. It also absorbs moisture vapor to prevent condensation, helping the window last longer and enhancing its overall performance. Join Glenn in the lab to see how Intercept compares to foam spacers.