Selecting the appropriate windows for your home replacement or new construction project will increase its energy efficiency and overall comfort. Windows with lower U-factor and higher VT ratings will reduce heat transfer, keeping the room cooler during summer and warmer during winter.
Search for a company that provides warranties on products, parts and installation (known as workmanship). This is essential considering windows can become damaged over time due to moisture intrusion, low efficiency or rot.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Your choice of window frame material and number of panes have an impactful impact on its energy efficiency. Vinyl and fiberglass frames tend to provide better insulation than wood or aluminum ones; you may even opt for windows with foam-filled frames for even greater insulation benefits.
Glass options you select can also help reduce heating and cooling costs. Aim for glass with a low U-factor to slow thermal transfer and keep the home warmer during the winter and cooler during summer; select options with low visible transmittance as well as solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) ratings for optimal results in curbing sun-induced heat gain.
New construction windows provide maximum customization in terms of style, size and configuration – offering ultimate customization when it comes to style, size and configuration. Plus they’re equipped with advanced energy-saving technologies which could drastically lower utility bills while qualifying you for tax credits!
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are an extremely popular choice among builders and homeowners, yet do not provide as much ventilation. Instead, single hung windows feature a bottom sash that moves vertically while their upper sash remains fixed and cannot be opened or shut.
Double-hung windows feature two operable sashes for ventilation purposes, making them an excellent option for homes with two-story living areas.
Energy efficiency should also be an integral component of residential window replacement decisions. Look for windows certified as ENERGY STAR with low U-factors and high VT ratings in order to maximize energy savings, and consider using argon gas-filled glass for enhanced insulation purposes.
New Construction Windows
If you are planning a new home or extension, hiring a Lexington window installation company to install new construction windows is a smart choice. Newly created openings give more options in terms of size and style than with replacement windows.
This type of window also permits full-frame replacement, improving insulation value and sealing up air leaks. Furthermore, energy-saving features like Low-E glass coatings may help reflect solar heat back out into space to keep your house cooler in summertime. Materials used for frames should also be considered; vinyl and fiberglass frames tend to be more energy efficient than wood or aluminum ones; additionally consider purchasing windows rated with the ENERGY STAR label for added savings!
Argon Gas
Argon gas is an inert nonmetal found in the atmosphere that features eight electrons in its outer shell, making it chemically inert. Nonflammable, noncombustible, nontoxic – yet asphyxiating- it has many uses such as light bulbs, laser surgery procedures and some automobile tire applications.
Argon gas in double and triple pane windows acts as a natural insulator, helping you achieve comfort indoor temperature control while saving energy and meeting building sustainability standards and certifications. Plus it blocks harmful ultraviolet rays which could damage furniture or carpeting! (10)
Energy Star
Champion windows, doors, sunrooms and siding meet the exacting ENERGY STAR manufacturing specifications and requirements. Their energy-saving windows help reduce heat transfer to reduce energy bills while making your home more comfortable.
You might recognize the ENERGY STAR label from appliances or heating and cooling equipment, but you’ll also find it on residential and commercial buildings. Its goal is to provide consumers with objective information about products and help reduce energy use to save money and help them save money through lower bills.
Search for windows with low U-factor and high visible transmittance to ensure they effectively keep warm air inside in winter and cool air outside during summer. Fiberglass windows are especially well suited to this purpose due to their strength and insulation properties; their maintenance requirements are also relatively minimal.