Winter is only a few weeks away, and no doubt you have already started to feel the chill sneak into your home. But before you reach for the thermostat, or put another log on the fire, have you ever thought about replacing your windows? It can have a major impact on your home’s ability to retain heat.
If new windows are on your to-do list, here are some handy tips to help boost your home’s heat retention before the chill sets in.
A hot topic: how windows impact heat loss
Windows are an essential part of every home, providing light, warmth and ventilation. But they also play a major part in a home’s energy efficiency.
Windows, especially older single pane varieties, become a vehicle for temperature transfer; the exchange of thermal energy between environments. In simple terms, it means that during winter older style windows allow too much heat to escape – up to 40%.
Thankfully, the technology behind windows and window frames has become much more sophisticated. Homeowners have more choice now than at any point in history, and stand to benefit from huge cost savings from advanced technology and sleek design.
Replacing your windows
There are a number of new products available on the market that promise to make your home more energy efficient.
Today, windows come in a massive array of varieties. Double and triple pane glass offers unprecedented energy savings, while high-tech finishes and coating prevent temperature transfer.
But not all windows are created equal. House design and window orientation play a big part in determining which product offers you the best energy efficiency.
Things to consider when upgrading your windows:
- The energy performance rating of different windows
- The climate of where you live
- The orientation of your home in relation to the sun
- The placement of windows around your home
Through the looking glass… how different windows can help your home retain heat
Insulated windows
Windows with two or more panes of glass. Triple pane windows have become a staple on the market, and offer the biggest energy savings for your home.
Gas fills
The spaces between the glass of a double or triple pane window can be filled with a specialized gas – either argon or krypton – which is more resistant to temperature transfer than air.
Heat-absorbing tints
A special glaze that absorbs solar radiation.
Low-emissivity coatings
A coating that reduces heat transfer. This finish typically costs about 10-15% more, but have been shown to reduce energy loss by up to 50%.
Reflective coatings
Reduces the transmission of solar radiation, blocking more light than heat.
Spectrally selective coatings
Filters out up to 70% of heat, without blocking any light.
Don’t forget the frame
The window frame itself plays a vital role in regulating internal temperature, working with the glass to prevent heat transfer. Frames come in a variety of materials, including aluminium, vinyl, fiberglass and metal. Energy efficiency is best achieved when the window frame matches your selected window and it’s finishing.
Always use a professional
Replacing your windows can be a daunting task. There are many options to choose from, lots of buzz words to learn and it is vital to have them installed properly.
Windows on Washington only uses the highest quality replacement windows on the market. Always use a professional to install your windows to ensure safety, and maximum value for money.
Find out more
Contact Windows on Washington to request a free estimate to see which products would suit your home. You can also download this free ebook that teaches you how the right windows, air sealing and insulation can improve the energy efficiency of your home.
{{cta(‘1e58f42d-04db-497d-8e49-f48d8869f71d’)}}
