Parts of an Energy-Efficient Window
So many people are using energy efficient windows these days, and this is not only because of a fad or due to their aesthetic purposes, as is the case with many other window choices that people make.
Energy efficient windows have long term benefits both for the home owner and for the environment as well. This is why different branches of the government have begun to give incentives for people who will decide to install these windows into their homes. These include tax benefits such as breaks and rebates, which alleviate the additional costs of putting in the energy efficient windows, and allow the homeowner to put in other energy-efficient additions if they so choose.
So what exactly are energy-efficient windows? They are called as such because they decrease the amount of artificial heating or cooling required in keeping the home comfortable. Because of this, the energy bills are much lower. This is also good for the environment, because the fuel that is required for heating and cooling is not wasted or used needlessly.
Energy efficient windows are made up of two parts: the frames and the panes. For the windows to be completely energy efficient, both these parts have to be made in such a way that they contribute to the window’s insulating properties.
Insulating Window Panes
Energy efficient windows are usually made out of two or more glass panes. These multiple panes have layers of air or gas between them. The gases that are usually used are argon, krypton, or other non-toxic gases. These gases allow better circulation and airflow within the panes. Also, the panes should be separated by fiberglass, foam, vinyl, or steel. They not only mark the proper distance between the panes, they also prevent condensation from forming onto the panes. The glass of the panes also has to be coated with a particular material that inhibits emissions. This material is called E-coating. Aside from keeping the warmth inside the home during winter months, this coating can protect the home from the sun’s rays and infrared light. This means that the home is protected from extraneous heat and fading which usually happens to carpets, floors, and furniture.
Air-Tight Frames
Aside from panes, the frames have to be energy-efficient as well. The first consideration is the material used in making these frames. Out of all the materials that are usually utilized in making doors and windows frames, fiberglass and vinyl are two of the most energy efficient. This is because they can reduce the transfer of heat in between the home and the environment. It makes the insulation of the home much better. The difference between these two materials is that they differ in costs. The decision regarding which material should be used can be based partly on the size of the budget that is allocated for the windows. There is a difference between the appearances of the materials as well.
It is important to look for windows which have frames that have been specifically engineered to perform their necessary functions, such as providing insulation, giving strength to the window, and sheltering the home from outside noise.
Processing your request, Please wait....
