The right windows for your home or establishment can impact aesthetics, comfort, and resale value. Double pane windows are the standard today and offer greater energy efficiency than single-pane windows.
They also block out noise and offer a range of frame material options. This article will discuss the benefits of these windows and how to choose them for your home or business.
Clear Glass
Clear glass is a great choice for homes and business that want to maximize natural light. It also allows a view of the outdoors, ensuring your home or business is well-ventilated and comfortable year-round. This type of glass can be tempered and laminated for safety and added durability.
The most economical option is double pane windows (also known as insulated glazing units). They reduce energy loss by insulating between two layers of glass and are twice as efficient as single-pane windows. They also reduce outside noise like street traffic and help to keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The cost of window replacement depends on a number of factors, including frame materials, installation costs, efficiency features and the house’s age. A new set of windows is more economical if you replace all the glass panes, especially if they’re cracked or damaged. Swapping only one or two windows may lead to faulty frames, air leaks and moisture problems that will be more expensive in the long run.
Decorative Glass
Decorative glass windows provide an attractive option for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s beauty and increase privacy. Hand-beveled glass accented with caming offers purposeful visual character through textural waves, striations and random air bubbles. These windows are available with a wide range of colors, finishes and patterns to complement any interior design.
Double-hung windows feature two operable sashes that allow the top and bottom to slide vertically, facilitating easy ventilation. They are ideal for traditional architectural styles and offer superior functionality.
Sliding windows are a popular choice for contemporary homes due to their ease of operation and versatile ventilation options. They are also easy to clean.
Picture windows are a great option for homeowners seeking a clear view of the outdoor landscape. They are typically made of clad wood or wood and may include grilles or shutters for a more rustic look. Double pane windows offer an energy efficient solution with Low-E coatings and argon gas in between the two panes of glass. They can meet energy efficiency requirements for all regions and climates.
Low-E Glass
Double-pane windows with a low-e coating help you reduce energy consumption by reflecting thermal radiation. This keeps it from entering your home during the summer. It also helps reduce UV radiation, which can cause fading of your carpets and furniture (5).
You may be able to save up to 20% on heating and cooling bills with this upgrade. That’s quite a bit of money that you can put toward other home improvement projects or family outings.
Some multi-pane windows use a soft low-e coating that faces the insulating airspace of argon or krypton gas. This coating protects the window from damage and provides additional insulation (6). This type of glazing is a good choice for cooler climates. It also limits solar gain, so it’s suitable for west- and east-facing rooms that receive direct sunlight. The coating is sputtered with two or three layers of silver, making it spectrally selective. The soft coatings can oxidize, so some manufacturers combine them with hard coatings that improve performance in colder climates.
Frame Material
Rather than just one pane, double-pane windows feature two separate glass panels separated by an airspace. This space helps to trap colder temperatures during winter and heat during summer, significantly lowering energy costs. They also help to block out noise from busy streets and other homes.
For even more energy savings, consider windows with low-e glass. These windows have a coating that reflects infrared heat, keeping your home warmer during the winter and cooler in the summer. You can also choose to have your windows filled with argon gas, which provides added insulation and a further reduction in energy costs.
Aluminum frames are another excellent choice, providing durability and a sleek appearance. They are resistant to swelling, rotting, and warping and can be customized in a variety of colors and finishes. A professional window installation service will be able to help you choose the best option for your needs. They should have years or decades of experience and a track record of satisfied customers.