Energy-efficient windows prevent heated or cooled air from escaping your home, resulting in lower energy bills and a more comfortable environment. Look for key efficiency ratings, including Visible Transmittance (VT), U-Factor, and Air Leakage, to find the best options for Houston’s climate.
Proper installation is also essential to ensure windows perform as designed. Local programs may offer rebates on energy efficient upgrades.
Dual-Pane Windows
Adding an extra pane of glass to your window reduces the transfer of heat and cold, and it enhances your home’s insulation. The addition of argon gas to the space between the panes improves thermal efficiency and insulating capabilities even further.
In hot climates like Houston’s, single-pane windows allow heat to easily transfer into homes, forcing air conditioning systems to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Double-pane windows with argon or krypton between the panes slow heat transfer, reducing energy costs and increasing comfort.
While they cost more upfront than single-pane windows, they pay for themselves through lower energy bills and improved home value. For homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term, double-pane windows are a smart investment. They also enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide a more comfortable, relaxing living environment.
Vinyl Frame Windows
Vinyl windows are built with polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, frames that resist rotting and rust. They also feature welded corners, creating a watertight seal for your home. PVC frames are relatively low-cost and durable, and they offer superior energy efficiency compared to other frame materials.
These windows are popular with Houston homeowners seeking a balance of affordability and efficiency. They are also easy to maintain, as they resist moisture and do not require repainting.
Some manufacturers create composite vinyl windows that are reinforced with fiberglass or wood to make them stronger. They also have hollow cavities that can be filled with insulation, helping your home withstand Western PA winters. These insulated windows pair well with windowpanes coated with Low-E and filled with argon gas, which further improves your energy efficiency.
Low-E Coating Windows
Featuring a microscopic layer of silver, low-e glass reflects the sun’s infrared and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This means that your furniture, drapes and carpets will stay a little cooler and less damaged than they would with clear windows.
Unlike clear windows, low-e glass also reduces visible light transmittance. While this may decrease the amount of natural light that enters your home, it allows your furnace and air conditioning system to work more efficiently.
Depending on your climate zone, you can boost energy efficiency even more by pairing low-e glass with other features like multiple panes of glass and gas fills such as Argon. That way, your new windows will adapt to Houston’s changing weather and help you save on your hefty energy bills all year round.
Double-Hung Windows
Unlike fixed windows, double-hung windows have two operable sashes. This design allows for natural ventilation, keeping a home cool in Houston’s hot and humid climate.
They also come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and finishes, allowing homeowners to find the ideal fit for their homes’ architectural styles. Their frames typically feature resilient materials like vinyl or wood-clad aluminum, which resist warping, rotting, and corrosion.
As a result, these windows blend timeless beauty and meaningful performance. Whether you want unobstructed views, maximum light, or both, consider double-hung windows for your next remodeling project.
Casement Windows
Hinged on one side and opening outward like a door, casement windows offer superior ventilation and unobstructed views. They look great in homes with a craftsman or Victorian design and complement other window styles well.
Improved Airflow
Casement windows create a tight seal when closed, which reduces leakage. This helps keep cool air inside and hot, humid air outside. It also cuts down on your energy bills by reducing the amount of time your air conditioner runs.
Enhanced Security