When it comes to picking out the right windows for you home or business, you probably initially think of the different types of windows available: hung, casement, picture, slider, bay, bow, etc. It’s important, however, to dig deeper when contemplating your window replacement options, and that includes considering the glass (or glazing). The types of glass and glass coatings you choose for your new replacement windows will greatly impact the energy efficiency of your home or business as well as your personal comfort.
Single-Pane Glass
Nothing is particularly special about a single-pane window; only one layer of glass separates you from the outside elements. Usually, single-pane windows offer little protection and have poor energy efficiency. As a result, few of these windows are being sold today. Most people are opting for double- or triple-pane glass windows instead.
Gas Fillings
Today, many window manufacturers improve the energy efficiency of their windows by including a gas-filled insulating layer between two panes of glass. This gas is inert, usually argon or krypton, which is highly resistant to heat transfer.
Double-Pane Glass
Double-pane glass windows are much more energy efficient and popular than single-pane windows because of the layer of insulation situated between the two layers of glass. If you currently have any single-pane windows in your building, consider upgrading to double-pane to greatly improve energy efficiency and lower your energy bills.
Triple-Pane Glass
Triple-pane glass is even better insulated than double pane! TWO layers of inert gas are sealed within these windows. If you live in a colder region, consider this type of glazing. Triple-pane glass is also a great sound barrier. It can keep a noisy family from disturbing their neighbors or keep the inside of a home or business quiet, even when located in noisy locations such as near a highway or railroad tracks.
Low-E Coatings
A low-e (emissivity) coating can be added to reduce the amount of heat transfer through a window. This coating is a microscopic layer made up of metal or metallic oxide that is placed on the surface of the window pane(s). According to Energy.gov, windows with low-e coatings cost about 10–15% more than windows without, but they can decrease energy loss by 30–50%!
Heat Mirror
Heat Mirror is a highly advanced glazing technique and is just as energy efficient or more so than triple-pane glass! A low-e coat is suspended in between two panes of insulated glass.
Heat-Absorbing Tints
Tinted glass can absorb a lot of solar radiation, preventing it from entering a building. It also reduces glare and visible transmittance. Tints available include blue, green, gray, bronze, and black. Each color is a little bit different in how it reflects or absorbs light and heat, so be sure to do your research and talk to a professional before deciding upon one tint over the others.
Energy Efficient Windows in Ankeny
Are you building a new house and need to pick out and install windows? Do you need to replace your old, drafty windows in your home or work building? Hedrick Construction in Huxley, IA, replaces and installs quality windows for commercial and residential properties around Ankeny and Ames. Contact us and let us know how we can help you!
Also, be sure to download our free eBook for some great information. Just click the button below!
Comments