Energy-efficient windows reduce a home’s energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These windows can be found in a variety of frame materials, including vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum.
Some windows have special features that minimize heat transfer and save energy, including warm edge spacers and inert gas fills. These windows are often ENERGY STAR certified.
Vinyl
Whether you are buying new construction or replacing old windows, it is important to choose the right window type and material to ensure energy efficiency. The right choice can reduce your energy costs, increase resale value, and improve comfort and safety.
Vinyl is the most popular window material for homes because it is durable, easy to maintain, and affordable. It is also available in a wide range of styles and colors, making it an ideal option for almost any home. It is a good insulator and is resistant to moisture, which makes it an ideal choice for hotter climates.
Premium vinyl windows from SoftLite feature air chambers in the sash and frame that add extra insulation, improving their overall insulating efficiency (U-factor). This allows warm air to stay inside during the winter and cool air to stay inside during the summer, saving you money on your energy bills. In addition, a low-emissivity coating and argon gas fills further enhance the thermal performance of these windows.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are a green, sustainable solution for new construction and window replacement. Often incorporating low-e glass, fiberglass frames are highly insulative and deliver energy efficiency that is comparable to wood or vinyl.
Energy efficient fiberglass windows have a lower embodied energy (the total amount of energy needed to produce the material from raw materials through delivery) than other materials. They also offer a number of other environmental benefits, such as reduced maintenance and a long lifespan.
ENERGY STAR certified fiberglass windows must meet a government U-factor that is based on regional climate conditions. The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation. Additionally, Low-E glass reduces unwanted UV ray penetration, which helps your home stay at a comfortable temperature all year round. When combined with our Intercept(tm) warm-edge spacer system, you can tack on an extra 5% savings. You can even opt for Argon gas, a colorless, odorless inert substance that prevents heat from escaping your home.
Wood
The natural beauty of wood windows adds value to a home while providing an insulator that saves homeowners money on energy costs. However, traditional wood windows require more maintenance, including frequent painting or staining to keep them in good condition. Fortunately, modern window installation companies now offer high-efficiency wood windows that can last for years to come.
Double and triple-pane windows are designed with multiple layers of glass that are filled with insulating gases like argon or krypton to reduce heat transfer and minimize air leaks. These insulating features not only lower energy bills, but also contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment.
Look for ENERGY STAR certification when choosing new windows. This government-sanctioned label guarantees that a window meets and exceeds stringent energy efficiency standards and is eligible for federal tax rebates. Window World offers a wide variety of ENERGY STAR qualified glass packages. You can choose the configuration that best fits your climate area and your budget.
Aluminum
Aluminum frames provide sturdy protection against harsh weather, and they can be engineered with various mechanisms to bolster security. These windows can also be fitted with Low-E Glass to enhance thermal insulation and save on energy costs.
They’re an excellent choice for newer construction and homes with a modern architectural style. They offer larger glass areas for maximum light and a minimal frame to complement the minimalist design of the home. They’re also available with warm edge spacers to minimize heat transfer between the window and air.
Clad windows are an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint. These windows feature the beauty of wood on the inside and durability of another material on the outside, so you can enjoy natural light and unobstructed views without compromising on energy efficiency. They can be powder-coated in a variety of colors and textures to match your home’s aesthetic, and they require very little maintenance.