Windows are essential to a home’s beauty, function and feel. They protect against scorching heat, withstand hurricane-force winds and items thrown by them, and help reduce energy costs.
Double pane windows consist of two strong glass panes with an insulating space filled with inert gases such as argon or krypton. They save homeowners money on electricity bills, improve comfort and increase resale value.
Durability
Florida’s diverse climate, with scorching heat and potential hurricanes, demands durable windows that offer energy efficiency, resale value, and protection from weather. Double pane windows are the ideal solution, with strong frames that resist fading, insect infiltration, rot, and moisture.
Double-pane windows contain two glass panes separated by an insulating space filled with inert gases like argon or krypton. These gases help to mitigate heat transfer and reduce outside noise. They also contribute to reduced energy bills and a more comfortable home interior year-round.
A quality installation is crucial for maximizing the benefits of double-pane windows. A reputable installer will use the proper insulation and provide a high-quality seal. They will also use a silica desiccant that helps to maintain dryness between the window panes.
Unlike single-pane windows, Double Hung windows are available with Full Screens since both the upper and lower sashes open. This makes it easy to ventilate the home in buggy South Florida and keep the bugs out of the house.
Energy efficiency
With a double-pane window, you will save money on energy bills by keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The air pocket between the two panes of glass also acts as an insulator, significantly reducing the transfer of heat.
Additionally, double-pane windows reduce external noise by creating a sound barrier that blocks out loud traffic and neighbors mowing their lawns. They also reduce harmful UV rays that can cause damage to upholstered furniture and wood floors.
Lastly, double-pane windows provide increased visibility and beauty to your home. However, they need to be correctly installed to reap desired energy savings. Incorrect installation can lead to condensation developing between the panes, compromising the integrity of the window. This is why it is important to choose a professional installer to ensure that your double-pane windows are properly installed and sealed. This will help you enjoy your new energy-efficient windows for years to come.
Impact resistance
Double-pane windows with impact resistance feature laminated glass and a sealed airspace between the panes. They are designed to withstand the force of hurricane winds and flying debris. The impact resistant design prevents the window from shattering, which can be a dangerous hazard for your family during a hurricane or severe storm in Florida.
The sealed airspace also improves energy efficiency and insulation by reducing heat transfer from the outside to your home. You’ll notice the difference in your home heating and cooling bills throughout the year. You can further improve the efficiency of your impact windows by adding a Low E coating. This tinted film blocks damaging UV rays, which can cause carpet, furniture and art to fade. It also reduces unwanted noise and condensation. These additional features make double-pane impact windows more desirable than standard glass. They can even help you qualify for a lower insurance premium. This combination of benefits makes impact windows a wise investment for homeowners in Florida.
Resale value
Double-pane windows are a great way to boost your home’s resale value. They improve the appearance of a property and reduce the need for air conditioning. They also offer energy efficiency and increased protection from the elements, making them a smart investment for any Florida homeowner.
Triple-pane windows provide better insulation and a higher R-value than double-pane window models. They are more expensive, but they may be worth the extra cost in your climate, especially if you plan to live in your home long enough to recoup the investment through energy savings.
These windows also help reduce external noise and allow you to enjoy a quiet and relaxing indoor environment. However, condensation on the inside of the glass indicates that the window has failed and needs repair or replacement. You can use an infrared camera to detect a failed window by observing the thermal differences between the different areas of the frame. These cameras are available at most home improvement stores and can be purchased for around $200.