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Home window tinting reduces glare, blocks dangerous UV rays, and makes your house more comfortable – while also helping lower costly AC and heating bills.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows prevent heated or cooled air from escaping your home, saving money and decreasing electricity use for HVAC systems. In addition, they help prevent drafts for year-round comfort in your home.
Energy efficiency of windows depends heavily on their frame, spacers and glazing. To maximize energy savings, look for low U-factor, high Visible Transmittance (VT), and Low-E coating that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light.
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, double-hung, casement, and awning windows with simple opening and closing mechanisms offer greater energy-efficiency than single-pane windows due to an additional layer of glass and air, which reduces heat transference. Although triple-pane windows may cost more, their payback can come through reduced utility bills and higher resale value.
Low-E Glass
Low-E coating on double-pane windows prevents UV rays that cause fading and helps keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, saving energy costs while improving comfort levels in both residential and commercial properties. Investing in this type of window could save money while simultaneously increasing comfort levels throughout your property or business.
One method to make windows more energy efficient is by filling the space between glass panes with argon gas. This increases insulation, reduces heat transfer and makes your house more comfortable.
Select windows with an Energy Star rating to meet the U-factor and SHGC requirements of your climate zone. There are Energy Star compliant windows available both as insert and retrofit options; insert installation typically costs less and utilizes existing frames; while retrofit involves leaving some parts, such as the sash or frame, intact while replacing others, such as glass.
Argon Gas
Argon gas can be added to energy efficient windows to strengthen their seal, helping lower heating and cooling bills year-round. Pumped into double-paned windows through small holes in their spacer, it helps create stronger windows with both low-e glass and argon as an insulator than air-filled ones; such windows also block UV light which causes furniture and fabrics to fade faster.
Argon is an odorless, tasteless and non-toxic noble gas naturally present in our atmosphere, alongside oxygen and nitrogen. Industry uses it as an inert shield gas during arc welding processes to protect metal from oxygen contamination while producing superior welds. Argon may also be added as a supplementary inert gas in wine barrels to prevent the wine from becoming oxidized or souring over time.
Energy Star Rating
Energy Star ratings are nationally-recognized labels that indicate whether a new home or building meets local codes by up to 15% more efficiently. It is voluntary certification, with those earning it being eligible to display its logo. The logo for Energy Star rating buildings is easily recognizable, featuring a script word “energy” with a star and arc around it. A home that earns this label has been verified to meet stringent energy-saving standards by an Energy Rating Company; for example, Creekside West earned this label thanks to many energy saving features such as insulated concrete form walls, geothermal heating/cooling, daylighting etc. It has achieved LEED Platinum (84/100), earning 100 Energy Star rating as an example.
Frame Material
No matter whether it is double-pane windows or sliding patio doors that you need installed, be sure to purchase frames made from materials which will last and save energy. Consult your window installation company on what options they provide.
Look for replacement windows with Energy Star ratings to reduce utility bills and enhance insulation. Argon gas can also fill any empty space between glass panes for improved insulating qualities.
Acetate is a high-grade plastic made from renewable resources, available in an assortment of colors and textures. A popular choice for eyeglasses frames due to the color being imbedded rather than painted on, which means it won’t peel over time. Acetate is also hypoallergenic and nickel-free – ideal options for those with allergies!