If you’re losing or gaining a lot of heat in your home, your windows may be responsible. Poorly insulated windows are to blame for 25 to 30% of a home’s cooling and heating energy use. Having energy-efficient windows ensures that your home is properly insulated and you’re not throwing money out the literal window for your energy costs.
If you’re thinking about window replacement to replace your outdated and inefficient windows, there are a few things you should know before you make your investment. In addition to saving you money on energy costs, there are multiple benefits you’ll receive from new window installation.
Insulated windows can reduce outside noises and increase your property value. Read on for more information about home window replacement.
Insulated Windows – What Are They?
Insulated windows keep your home at a comfortable temperature without you having to keep your blinds closed all day. They provide insulation by using two panes instead of one. The dual panes of glass create a pocket of air within the window’s structure.
Air is a great, natural insulator. One of the benefits of air is that it’s clear. Insulated windows will still let in natural light while keeping the cold and heat out of your home. Newer homes come standard with insulated windows, but older homes typically have outdated windows.
Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home
If you have single-paned windows or ones that are more than 10 years old, it’s time for replacement windows. New, double-paned windows provide your home with increased energy efficiency. By locking in the heat and cool air (depending upon the season), your windows will reduce the wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.
You’ll save money as your home appliances don’t have to work harder to heat or cool your space. One thing you should look for when shopping for new windows is if the company and products are ENERGY STAR® certified. There aren’t specific technologies ENERGY STAR windows must-have, but there are different features that are prominent in certified products.
Some of these features include:
- Multiple window panes
- Gas fills between the panes
- Special coatings that reflect infrared and ultraviolet light
- Low-maintenance and durable framing materials
- Spacers that keep the panes apart
Energy-efficient windows protect the environment, enhance your home’s comfort, and save you money. Within the energy-efficient options, there are vinyl, fiberglass, and wood windows available.
Wood is naturally insulating and has a low amount of heat transfer. Fiberglass windows are designed to withstand very hot and cold temperatures. Vinyl windows have several insulating chambers that keep your home cool and warm.
Increase the Value of Your Home
Studies have shown that homeowners can recoup up to 72% of their new window investment. When you go to sell your home, potential buyers are going to look at the quality of the windows. If they’re old and single-pane, that’s going to deter them from buying or making a higher offer.
Potential buyers are willing to pay for the convenience of already having energy-efficient windows installed. They’ll look ahead to the future and know they’ll have lower energy bills because of the windows.
Decrease Noise From the Outside
Another benefit insulated windows deliver is noise reduction. Air is a great insulator against noise. When you have non-insulated windows, sound waves travel through the glass and into your home.
Sound waves stop as soon as they hit dual pane windows. If you live in a noisy neighborhood, it’ll keep the inside of your home nice and quiet. You also won’t have to deal with the sound of windows rattling either.
Added Security and Safety
Windows are a common access point to intruders. Even if you have a locking mechanism on your windows, a burglar can still break the glass.
It’s more difficult for someone to break an insulated window. There are more panes of glass that they have to break. You’ll be able to hear them attempting to break the window and you’ll have time to alert the authorities.
Additionally, windows that are painted shut or difficult to open are a hazard. In the event of a house fire, it can make it difficult for you and your family to escape. You want windows that easily slide open and closed in the unfortunate event of a fire.
What Types of Windows Are Best For Hot Climates?
Summers in El Paso are long and hot. It can get up to 104° during the hottest times of the year. You want insulated windows that will protect you against the extreme heat while letting in natural light.
Low-E Windows
Low emissivity or Low-E glass comes with a coating that blocks out UV and infrared light. It also lets natural light pass through. Blocking and controlling infrared light decreases the amount of heat that passes through the window.
Low-E glass is perfect for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. They are also energy-efficient. They’re a great choice for hot Texas summers as they keep the heat and UV light out.
Multi-Pane Windows
Choose windows that are triple or double pane. Each pane has gas in between for additional insulation. The more panes you have, the more insulation you’ll end up with.
A common gas that’s used is argon. It’s affordable and efficient. These types of windows will further insulate your home, decreasing your energy costs.
Contact a Window Replacement Company Today
While window replacement is an investment, it’s one that begins to pay off immediately. You’ll save money on your monthly energy bills, insulate your home, and increase your home’s value. Feel more comfortable during extreme weather conditions with the best windows for your house.
Trim Team Doors and Windows is here to help with your window replacement needs. Contact our office today for a consultation.