In the old days, the rise of of windows concurred with the development of fixed and enclosed houses. They were traditionally seen as wide openings on the walls that let in natural light in the morning, decorated with animal skins to regulate airflow and daylighting. Over the centuries, though, the features of windows evolved, transforming into the more versatile and energy-efficient varieties we have today.
In the old days, the rise of of windows concurred with the development of fixed and enclosed houses. They were traditionally seen as wide openings on the walls that let in natural light in the morning, decorated with animal skins to regulate airflow and daylighting. Over the centuries, though, the features of windows evolved, transforming into the more versatile and energy-efficient varieties we have today.
You’ve probably heard that investing in energy-efficient replacement windows in Findlay, OH, and in other parts of the region can help reduce the cost of your monthly energy bills by sealing in heat during winter and cool air during summer. While that’s definitely true (and yes, replacing your old sin
gle-pane windows with energy-efficient units can probably save you up to $500 every year), you can enjoy many more benefits by making that switch. For instance, energy-efficient windows are good for Mother Nature because installing them means a significant reduction in your greenhouse gas emissions. They will also keep your Ohio home comfortable because you won’t be dealing with constant temperature fluctuations like you do with old, drafty windows.
So how can your replacement windows actually make your home more energy-efficient? How do they work? That’s the question we hope to answer in today’s post. Read on to learn more.
Energy Efficiency vs. Energy Conservation
Given the ever increasing price of electricity, heating and cooling the home is the bane of many Ohio homeowners’ existence. If you do not care about these things, you’re probably paying a whole lot more than your neighbor who is keeping a close eye on the energy efficiency of his home and its features, as well as practicing energy conservation techniques to reduce their energy costs. Before knocking on his door or going online to ask for energy-saving tips, you need to understand first that there’s a huge difference between energy efficiency and energy conservation. Energy efficiency is the practice of saving energy by using it more efficiently, while energy conservation is the practice of saving energy by changing the way you consume it.
The best way to understand these ideas is through examples. To save money, you can practice energy efficiency by making sure your car doesn’t have machine problems and is always in tiptop shape, so you’ll use less gas when driving it. It becomes energy conservation when you decide to drive your car less and use other alternatives, like riding your bike or arranging a carpool.
By replacing your old windows and investing in new home window installation in Fostoria, OH, you don’t have to sacrifice anything because newer units can help make your home comfortable and consumer lesser energy through their innovative energy efficiency features.
Advantages of Energy-Efficient Windows over Traditional Units
Due to today’s focus on creating more sustainable homes, energy-efficient windows have been a staple in many Ohio homes for the past years, and that is a good thing. One prominent factor that makes energy-efficient windows stand out is their double-pane structure. Also called dual pane windows, double-pane windows are units that have two panes of glass glazed to the window’s movable part, the sash, and then placed in the frame. Their insulation is enhanced by having air or gas fills between the two glass panes.
Most traditional windows have only a single pane of glass, making them more susceptible to drafts and energy loss. Although they initially cost less than a double-pane unit, they offer much less energy savings. You’d end up spending more on your heating and cooling bills in the long run. We explain the advantages of double-pane windows in more detail below:
- Energy Efficiency. Did you know that windows often account for the biggest amount of energy loss in one’s home? Here in Ohio where temperatures can go extreme from time to time, much of the cost of your heating and cooling will virtually go out of your windows if you’re still putting up with single-pane, drafty units. Double-pane windows help boost your overall energy efficiency with the extra glass pane acting as additional barrier to the weather elements. They could pay for themselves over time.
- Noise Reduction. It only makes sense that if your windows have an additional glass pane, you’ll reduce the level of noise heard within your home. If you’re planning to invest in home improvement services in Findlay, OH, to make your home more peaceful, installing energy-efficient, double-pane windows should be among your top choices. This will make sure outside noise pollution doesn’t infiltrate your Ohio home as much as with a single-pane unit. Remember, a quieter home is a happier home!
- No Need to Use Storm Windows. Many homes that have single-pane windows usually use storm windows to provide additional protection against the elements. With double-pane windows, this is not a problem. These units offer all the protection you need to get through a harsh weather condition all year round.
Energy-efficient, double-pane windows may be the best addition to your Ohio home if you’re looking for lower noise pollution, enhanced energy savings and the elimination of storm windows. All of these advantages result in a more comfortable home and lifestyle.
Features That Make Windows Energy-Efficient
Investing in window replacement can give you the same energy-saving benefits you’ll get by planning a door replacement service in Fostoria, OH. There are several components that make up an energy-efficient window that fits Ohio’s climate.
From the frame material to the glazing, each part plays a crucial role in how well the window can help your home improve energy efficiency. This is particularly true when it comes to dealing with heat. Since your windows will be constantly exposed to sunlight, it needs to contain the right parts to insulate effectively. Make sure your replacement windows have all these components in place to keep your energy bills as low as possible:
- Insulated Frame. Aside from giving your windows shape and supporting its structure, the frame affects its resistance to air leakage and heat conduction. A stronger, more insulated frame material results in a more energy-efficient window unit. Without a properly insulated frame, the heat would transfer easily onto the glass, eventually distributing heat to other parts of your interior. Before selecting new windows, your window contractor should be able to provide you with highly durable and insulated frame materials, like wood and fiberglass.
- Low-Emissivity Glass in Double-Pane Windows. Even with high-quality framing, heat might get through your window glass if it weren’t for the specialized coating called the low-emissivity, or low-e, coating. It plays a two-way role of either keeping the heat out when it’s hot or keeping it in when it’s cold. As such, this specialized coating works best for all types of climate, including ours here in Ohio. Apart from helping regulate interior temperature and saving energy, low-e coatings also help minimize the effects of harmful UV rays to our furniture, carpeting and other valuables inside our home. Plus, it can also be used for doors, so tackling patio door installation in Findlay, OH, can be a great idea as well.
- Spacer. Placed between the window’s double panes to help seal the unit, spacers are made of highly thermally prohibitive materials. They create a space for inert gases to help minimize heat transfer.
- Gas Fills. In the 1980s, window manufacturers first used krypton and argon as gas fills to double-pane windows and boost insulation. These non-toxic gases help enhance the insulation properties of windows through their outstanding thermal resistance. In addition, they don’t pose any health risks if ever they leak over time.
- Quality of Installation. The quality of installation has a huge impact on your replacement windows’ energy efficiency. You may have chosen the best framing material and glass package that suit your home’s needs and works greatly in Ohio’s climate, but you won’t reap their benefits if the units are installed incorrectly. This is where choosing a reliable window installation company comes in.
When it comes to installing energy-efficient windows in your home, Clear Choice Exteriors Your Local Window Depot is one of your best options. We’ve installed thousands of windows in many Ohio homes over the years, making us the most trusted window and roofing company in Fostoria, OH, and the nearby communities. Our installers are all highly trained and skilled, and with their proven expertise, you can be confident your new windows will be installed right the first time.
Aside from ensuring quality installation, you can also turn to us if you’re looking for professional window design recommendations. From the more traditional double hung and casement to modern sliding and picture windows, we’ve got everything you need to make your home not only energy-efficient, but also pleasing to the eyes. They come in a plethora of colors, sizes and shapes, allowing you to choose the best replacement unit that suits your needs.
Energy-efficient windows are specifically designed and engineered with innovative technology to help minimize thermal transfer. As a result, they help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, diminishing the burden on your heating and cooling systems, thus lowering your energy costs. To make sure you enjoy these benefits, though, you have to make sure you choose the right units and the best window installer you can find. Clear Choice Exteriors Your Local Window Depot is here to provide professional assistance and help you make informed decisions for your home.
Clear Choice Exteriors Your Local Window Depot is your premier source for high-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows. To schedule a FREE consultation and estimate, simply call us at [company_phone]. We look forward to working with you!
