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Having aging and leaky windows in your home can have a negative effect on your utility bills. If you’re experiencing drafts and high energy bills, then you should consider replacing your current windows with energy-efficient ones, such as windows from Advanced Energy Services. These windows can help keep cooling and heating costs down while improving your home’s overall aesthetics, comfort, and curb appeal.

Here are some things to consider when looking for the best energy-efficient windows for your home:

Design

As with any other product, window designs are not created equally. Although fixed style designs offer a better airtight solution, operable ones have better overall visual appeal and efficiency. Most of the modern windows today are designed to be more efficient than older styles and usually includes energy-efficient glass coatings, soundproof glass, and insulating gas fillers. Here are two of the most popular and energy-efficient window designs you can consider:

  • Casement Windows – This window design is popular for those looking for a contemporary one. Casement windows easily open for good ventilation and easy maintenance, and can also be closed tight against the window frames during adverse weather conditions. Occasional maintenance may be needed on seals and hinges to keep them operating correctly.
  • Double-Hung Windows – This window design provides traditional styling with the benefits of a modern one. Double-hung windows are built with two sashes that can be operated simultaneously to allow ventilation control and can also be tilted inwards for easier cleaning.

Frame

Choosing the right window frame for your home is essential, as it will be the one to hold the glass in place. Some materials can be better insulators, while others offer airtight construction and low maintenance needs. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of each frame type:

  • Wood-Clad – This frame type is a combination of low-maintenance aluminum or vinyl with low heat-transfer wood, which makes this a popular choice for buyers. However, a wood-clad frame must also have a sill pan and waterproof rubber membrane to reduce the risk of wood rot due to water infiltration.
  • Vinyl – This budget-friendly frame type can be a concern when it comes to structural integrity and durability, as some vinyl products can be thin and cumbersome. Vinyl window frames have a higher R-value—the capacity of an insulating material to resist heat flow—when compared to other materials. High R-value means more savings on utility bills. Vinyl products are easily cleaned with water and soap, and come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and colors.
  • Wood – Wood frames offer the best insulation as they have less thermal conductivity when compared to other frame materials. And if maintained well, wood frames can last for many years. However, they are susceptible to mildew, mold, and rotting.
  • Aluminum – If you’re looking for a durable frame, then you should consider aluminum ones. They usually come with an anodized finish and will require minimal maintenance. However, aluminum frames are more prone to condensation during cold weather.

Glass

If you still have single-pane glass windows with warped wooden frames, replacing it with the newer Energy Star-certified glass windows can dramatically decrease your energy bills and enhance your home’s overall comfort. Here are some additional glass features that can further improve your home’s energy efficiency:

  • Low-Emissive Coatings – Low-emissive coated glass provides an invisible layer of insulation that prevents heat loss during the cold winter season, and also blocks UV rays that damage carpeting and upholstery during the hot summer season. Having this kind of window glass can help create a more comfortable home while also reducing your utility costs.
  • Double Or Triple-Pane Windows – This type of window is perfect for areas that have extreme winters or extended periods of low temperatures. Double and triple-pane glass windows offer excellent thermal insulation and are usually made with stronger hardware and frames compared to single-pane windows.
  • Gas-Injected Glass – This type of glass works very well when used with triple-pane windows. Gas-injected glass uses Krypton and Argon gas to prevent condensation and heat loss. They are also non-toxic, odorless, colorless.

Spacers

High-quality and energy-efficient windows commonly include elastomeric, steel, or aluminum spacers between its layers of glass. Spacers are used to keep each glass pane at an optimal distance to insulate and seal layers, and help reduce thermal conduction.

Closing Thoughts

Investing your money on high-quality energy-efficient windows can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills and overall comfort. It’s also essential to make sure that the windows are correctly installed by certified window installers to achieve maximum effectiveness. May this article help you find the best energy-efficient windows that suit your budget and needs.