Windows can increase the energy efficiency of your home when properly installed and maintained.
Here are six window features that can impact the temperature inside your home. 1. The style The way your windows operate affects their energy efficiency because some styles have lower air leakage rates than others. Although fixed windows have an airtight seal, they don’t offer ventilation or egress. Awning, hopper and casement windows minimize air leaks because the sash closes by pressing against the frame. 2. The frame The material used for the frame can improve a window’s energy efficiency by lowering its U-factor. This measurement is the rate at which a window allows non-solar heat to flow through it. Although wood is a decent insulator, it requires regular maintenance to prevent warping and air leaks. Vinyl frames, on the other hand, aren’t susceptible to the elements that deteriorate wooden windows. They also have hollow cavities that can be filled with insulation to improve their thermal resistance. 3. The panes Double- and triple-pane windows are substantially more effective at preventing heat loss than single-pane windows. Multi-pane windows have a layer of gas, typically argon, sealed between the sheets of glass to provide an additional layer of insulation. 4. The coating Windows can be purchased with an additional low-emissivity (low-E) coating on the glass. This transparent and microscopically thin layer reduces heat transfer without affecting the amount of natural light that enters your home. A low-E coating reflects heat back into your home during the winter and keeps it outside during the summer. 5. The seal A major source of air seepage in windows is the gap between all four sides of the sash and the framed opening. Caulking and weatherstrip protect against drafts by sealing the movable components when the window is closed. 6. The decor You can give your windows an insulation boost with coverings such as drapes, curtains and blinds. Although their efficacy depends on the thickness of the material, they give you the flexibility to block out sunlight or take advantage of the natural heat as needed. Energy-Efficient Windows in Northwestern Canada Even the most energy-efficient windows must be properly installed to maximize their benefit in your home. The certified glaziers at All-West Glass offer our clients high-quality window repair and replacement services in cities across Alberta, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and Yukon. To schedule a consultation or request a free quote, contact us today.