The days of single-pane windows are long gone. At Thermal King Windows and Siding, we’ve seen things go from single pane windows when we got into the business in 1989, to modern windows that are either double or triple glass. Nowadays, single pane windows won’t even pass an inspection.
When it comes to windows, more layers are better. Unlike most companies that use double glass windows, we specialize in triple glass. These energy-efficient windows can make a big difference in your home’s energy usage. But what makes energy efficient replacement windows so important? Let’s take a closer look.
What Are Energy Efficient Windows?
Windows that provide a home with an adequate amount of insulation are generally considered energy efficient. Typically, these windows have at least 2 layers of glass that have 1 layer of dead air space between to act as an extra layer of insulation. We have triple glass, which has 2 layers of dead air space sandwiched between the 3 layers of glass. Single glass windows are no longer allowed to be used.
When you’re shopping around, look into how many panes of glass there are, what type of gas is between the layers (some just have dead air space, others have argon), and what the U-factor is. U-factor is important because it tells you the rate of solar heat gain and loss through the window. Keep in mind that the U-factor may refer to just the glass, or it could cover the entire window, including the spacers and frame.
Many parts of the Kansas City metropolitan area require energy-efficient windows, with some pretty specific requirements. In order to pass an inspection, the windows must be at least double glass, as well as have low-E tint and argon between the layers of glass.
Energy Efficient Replacement Windows: New Windows Vs. Updating Existing Windows
It can be tough to decide whether you should update your existing windows or get new ones. If you’ve noticed that you’ve been spending way too much money to heat or cool your home, it may be time to make a change. But what change you should make really comes down to a couple of factors: what kind of windows you have and what condition they’re in.
Updating your windows would work fine if you can meet the energy efficiency you need by adding weather stripping or installing a storm window. If you can’t update your existing windows due to being outdated, drafty, single-paned, or simply just unattractive, then it would be time to look into getting them replaced.
Are Energy Efficient Replacement Windows Worth It?
In almost any situation, an energy efficient replacement is always worth it. If you’ve noticed your heating and cooling costs increasing over time, it’s time to consider upgrading your windows.
Comfort
One of the biggest perks of upgrading your home’s windows to an energy-efficient alternative is keeping the temperature at a comfortable temperature. When you’ve got the hot sun beating in your windows in the summer or drafts coming in during the winter, your home’s HVAC system has to work harder and may not be able to combat the environmental factors it’s working against.
Cost Savings
With the temperature being easier to manage, this results in you saving money on your utility bills. Not only can you expect to save around 12% on your utility costs, but some local and state governments also have various incentives such as rebates and tax credits for those that upgrade their homes to energy-efficient windows.
Noise Reduction
As you may expect, the added insulation that comes with energy-efficient windows means a lot of sounds will be blocked. This is helpful if you live in a noisy area and need help keeping loud sounds out of your home. On the flip side, that insulation also keeps a lot of sounds from leaving your home as well.
Reduced Fading
UV light is notorious for fading photos, fabric, and many other things that we don’t necessarily want to be faded. When you switch to energy-efficient windows, UV protection will keep the items in your home from developing various types of damage that UV can cause, including color fading.
Invest in Energy Efficient Replacement Windows to Save Energy and Money For Years
If you’re ready to make the switch to energy efficient replacement windows, reach out today and we can help!
