Energy efficient windows are not only a great home improvement option, but they also increase the resale value of your home. They also save you money on your energy bills and protect your home from harsh weather conditions.
In Florida, rising home temperatures from intense summer sunlight cause HVAC systems to strain and drive up cooling costs. Energy-efficient windows prevent this heat transfer, lowering your cooling and heating energy usage.
Double-pane windows
The innovative design of double-pane windows incorporates a space between two panes that is filled with an inert gas, such as argon or Krypton. This gas acts as an insulator and minimizes heat transfer, which helps keep homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
These windows can be enhanced with a low-e coating, which reduces harmful UV rays that cause furniture, carpeting and fabrics to fade in direct sunlight. They also prevent heat gain from the sun, helping homeowners save money on their energy bills.
Double-pane windows are available in a variety of styles, including bay, bow, casement and picture windows. Reputable window contractors offer customization options to meet the unique needs of each property. For example, homeowners in hurricane-prone areas can choose impact windows that are designed to protect against flying debris and powerful winds. They can also eliminate the need to install storm shutters and plywood during hurricane season.
Vinyl windows
Many homeowners struggle with high electrical bills because their windows are not energy efficient. Installing new vinyl windows will help to reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool a home. They also provide added insulation to protect the interior of a home from harsh sun rays.
The insulating properties of vinyl are enhanced by low-emissivity coatings, which reflect damaging UV rays away from fabrics and wood surfaces inside the home. This will prevent carpets, curtains, and furniture from fading due to direct sunlight.
Vinyl replacement windows are available in a variety of styles, shapes, and configurations. They can be custom-designed to complement the aesthetics of a home and are resistant to temperature extremes. They also require little maintenance, as they are impervious to moisture and insect damage. These characteristics make vinyl a popular choice among homeowners. They are also affordable and easy to find at a local home improvement store. When choosing a window installer, choose one with experience and good references.
Impact windows
While impact windows are commonly used to protect a home from damaging hurricane winds and debris, they also provide numerous energy-efficiency benefits. They can reduce energy bills, prevent heat from escaping in winter, and block harmful UV rays that cause fading.
The impact window frames are often made of aluminum or wood to help insulate the home and minimize air leakage. They are usually filled with argon gas to further increase the insulating properties of the glass. These features are necessary to meet the 2015 Florida building codes for hurricane-resistant windows.
The insulated glass on impact windows can significantly reduce the need for heating and cooling. This is because the glass is designed to keep heat inside your home during cold weather and outside during summer. Additionally, the double-layered glass can block unwanted UV rays. This makes impact windows an excellent choice for Florida homeowners who want to lower their electricity bills. In addition, they can save them the hassle of boarding up their windows during hurricane season.
Insulated glass
There are many different facets to consider when selecting replacement windows. Ultimately, the choice will determine how long your windows last and how much you save on energy bills.
Insulated glass (also known as IGU windows) are double or triple-paned windows with a spacer between them. This spacer is filled with air or a noble gas like argon to increase the window’s efficiency.
In the winter, this space prevents heat from escaping to the outside. Similarly, in the summer, it keeps outdoor heat from entering your home.
Moreover, these windows are a great option for noise reduction. The pocket of air or gas between the panes doesn’t allow sound to pass through easily. This means that you won’t hear loud cars driving by or your neighbors mowing their lawn at the crack of dawn. Lastly, these windows also reduce the amount of sunlight that passes through them. This can prevent fading of upholstered furniture and wood floors.