Energy-efficient windows are an investment in your home’s future and a sustainable solution to reduce your carbon footprint. They also offer many benefits like consistent indoor temperatures, lower energy bills and improved property value.
Whether you opt for double-hung or casement windows, your new energy efficient windows will minimize heat transfer to keep your home cool in Houston’s hot summers and warm in the winter.
Dual-Pane Windows
Double-pane windows are a game changer for homeowners who want to reduce energy consumption without making any major changes to their daily routines. The sealed air space and insulating gas between the glass panes of these energy-efficient windows reduce heat transfer, keeping your home cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter.
Not only do they provide better insulation, but they also help cut noise pollution and keep your home more comfortable. In addition, the Low-E coating minimizes solar heat gain and UV rays.
In other words, they are a good defense against the harsh Houston climate and its intense sunlight and heat. And since they’re made from durable materials, you can expect them to last for years to come. Plus, the vinyl frame gives them a sleek and stylish look that will fit in perfectly with your home’s design scheme.
Low-E Coating
When it comes to energy efficiency, not just any ol’ pane of glass will do. You want something that can deflect that Texas heat and keep your home cool without workin’ your AC overtime, while preventing the cold air from seepin’ out in winter. That’s where Low-E coatings come in handy, y’all.
These microscopically thin layers are designed to limit the amount of infrared and ultraviolet rays that pass through your window. That said, they’re still transparent enough to allow natural light in.
So, if you’re in the market for new windows that are smarter than your grandma’s antique pictures, be sure to pick ones with an ENERGY STAR certification. That way, you’ll be sure they meet the nation’s most stringent energy efficiency standards and can help your wallet breathe easier. And make sure you hire a seasoned pro to install them, so your new windows keep you snug and your bills low. That’s a winning combo.
Vinyl Frame
As the leading window replacement option, vinyl windows are energy efficient, durable and affordable. They are also highly recyclable. They can save homeowners money on utility bills and boost home resale value. However, homeowners must make accurate measurements before buying these windows. This can be done by creating a worksheet and writing down all dimensions.
Standalone vinyl frames are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a common synthetic polymer. This material is not as elegant or natural-looking as wooden or aluminum frame types, but it does offer a number of benefits.
For example, premium vinyl is an insulating material and it resists heat transfer. Its welded sashes and frames help reduce air drafts. Combined with an ENERGY STAR® optimized glass, these features can improve the thermal efficiency of your Houston home. Additionally, vinyl does not expand or contract with temperature changes, so it is less prone to warping and distortion. This helps maintain a smooth operation of the window hardware and minimizes maintenance needs.
Energy Star Rating
Aside from insulating your home, energy efficient windows also help reduce air infiltration and condensation. In 2010, the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program helped Americans avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 33 million cars and save almost $18 billion on utility bills.
The ENERGY STAR label is the best way to find energy-efficient windows. Manufacturers submit products to the National Fenestration Rating Council for testing and receive an ENERGY STAR rating based on how well they insulate and prevent heat transfer and air leakage.
Keep in mind that Energy Star ratings vary by climate zone. A window that performs poorly in cold climate zones can have a U-factor within the acceptable range but will not meet the Energy Star criteria for warmer Southern climate zones. A window that is rated as Most Efficient must have both the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) in the acceptable range. The ENERGY STAR website lists the energy ratings for each type of window.