One of the most important reasons for upgrading windows in a home is to increase its energy efficiency. If you live in a home with old windows and doors, chances are your home has a large carbon footprint. You replace your windows and doors and make other improvements to reduce that footprint, which is good for the environment as well as for your wallet and your health.
But what makes a window energy-efficient? It’s good to understand how an energy-efficient window is built so you know how it differs from ordinary, uninsulated windows, which are cheaper but aren’t exactly a good choice.
Here are the components that make a window energy-efficient.
Quality Framing Material
The frame should prevent or reduce heat transfer and provide good insulation. It should be durable enough so you don’t have to replace your windows again and again. It should also be low-maintenance. It’s a bonus if the material is so strong that the frame and sashes don’t have to be too thick or wide. While there are several good window framing materials, some are a cut above the rest, such as Fibrex®, the proprietary material manufactured by Renewal by Andersen® and combines the best qualities of wood and vinyl while eliminating their inherent weaknesses.
Multiple Glass Panes
A single glass pane cannot do much to prevent heat transfer. But an insulated glass unit (IGU) with at least a (a) dual-pane construction and an (b) inert gas filler like argon or krypton, and reliable (c) warm edge spacers, can prevent heat transfer, perform better against impact, and insulate against outdoor sounds. All Renewal by Andersen windows, including our popular double hung windows, have a dual-pane glass.
Low-E Glass
Renewal by Andersen products come standard with High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass. This type of glass has a special coating for better solar reflectance. It helps keep your home warmer during winter and cooler during the summer. It also protects your furniture and carpets from fading.
These qualities are what make a window energy-efficient. They are what ENERGY STAR® looks for in the window products that it certifies.
Get in touch with Renewal by Andersen® of Sacramento for top-quality, energy-efficient picture windows and more. Call us today at (916) 779-5800 or tell us about your project here. We look forward to working with you in Sacramento, CA.
