How to Choose Energy-Efficient Windows

The Different Window Frame Materials

When choosing energy-efficient windows, it is important to consider the climate where you live. If you live in a colder climate, you will need to have a frame material that is better at retaining heat and more resistant to cold.If you live in a warmer climate, you will need a window that is better at blocking out the sun’s heat. You should also consider the type of insulation in your home and the safety level you need from your windows.Newer homes usually have better insulation than older homes, so if your home is older you may want to consider upgrading to more energy-efficient windows. These are the best frame materials on the market.

Vinyl

Vinyl window frames are a cost-effective and efficient option for those looking to replace their windows. Vinyl can be applied as a replacement for wooden, aluminium, or metal window frames and has the appeal of being easy to maintain. In addition, these frames offer maximum energy efficiency and reduced upkeep costs with their weather-resistant properties. In fact, vinyl is a poor heat conductor and, therefore, will save you money on your energy bill.

Wood

Wood is a great material for window frames and is the most environmentally friendly option. It also offers excellent thermal insulation properties that reduce your energy use and offer natural beauty to your home. Wood window frames are easy to maintain, can be painted to match your décor, and should last for 10 to 20 years with little maintenance.

Aluminium

When it comes to window frames, there are a few different materials that people typically choose from and aluminium is one of the best. Some of its benefits include:

• They don’t rust
• They’re lightweight and easy to install
• They’re durable and can last for many years
• They’re cheaper than other types of window frames

On the opposite side, aluminium isn’t able to hold heat as efficiently as other frame materials.

Fibreglass

Lastly, fibreglass is another of the greatest materials for your windows’ frames. First and foremost, it is cheaper than other materials without sacrificing quality.Fibreglass is extremely durable, doesn’t rot or corrode, and can withstand the harshest weather conditions, making it one of the best energy-efficient windows.It is very strong and, therefore, makes your property safe from unwanted intruders.

The Types of Energy Efficient Windows

Sash Windows

Sash windows can be great for reducing noise, retaining heat, and they’re simple to maintain. As with most things though there are always some cons – sash windows can be prone to water damage, can be more expensive than other units, and may not work as well with your architectural style.Sash windows can be a great choice for homeowners looking to add an element of style to their homes at a relatively low cost.However, they can be prone to water damage over time which may require them to be replaced before their time is up.

Tilt and Turn Windows

Tilt and turn windows are an excellent way to stay cool in the summer and let a small amount of air inside during the winter.The tilt and turn window is also a great security feature because it makes it difficult for someone to break into your home. Overall, tilt and turn windows are a great option for homes that need good ventilation and increased security.Also, they are less prone to water damage and leakage and they are great at keeping the heat inside.On the other hand, since they are so convenient, these units are also more expensive than other ones. They are, however, worth the investment with an average lifespan of 25 years.Tilt and turn windows can be tilted inwards to allow for ventilation, or turned 90 degrees to open them fully like a door.

Casement

Casement windows are designed to bring in lots of natural light and air into the room. But there are both pros and cons with this type of window, as the risk of water leakage in case they aren’t properly installed. They can also brighten up the entire room and make it feel more spacious. Additionally, these units can provide an escape route in the event of a fire.However, there are some drawbacks to installing casement windows. The main one is that their mechanical parts can break and can be very pricey to replace. Their sashes can also crack and that is an inconvenience to keep in mind.

Roof Windows

Roof windows can be installed in your home to provide you with the natural light that you need. Of course, since they are installed on the roof, you will gain liveable space inside your property and this can eventually increase your property value.Apart from that, they improve sound insulation unless there is strong rain outside.The major downside is that they are expensive because they take more time to install than other windows.

Single, Double, or Triple Glazing

Single, double and triple glazing can all keep your home cool in the summer months. Single glazing is good at keeping heat out of your house, but it’s not very good at keeping heat inside when it’s cold outside. Double glazing has a perfect balance, where you get the benefits of both single and triple glazing-keeping heat out when it’s hot out and trapping warmth inside on cold days.Triple glazing is even better than that – it will keep your house nice and warm during the winter months, while still allowing cross ventilation to keep things fresh. However, triple-glassed windows are usually recommended for homeowners living in harsh conditions since they are so thick they do not let all-natural warmth in.So, if you’re looking to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, double or triple glazing is the way to go. As a general rule of thumb, double glazing is recommended for its duration and for a reasonable cost.

The Takeaway

This was all you had to know in terms of window frame materials, the types of windows, and the double or triple glazing.Of course, the choice of material and window highly depends on the area where you will live, the weather conditions, and the budget allocated to your units.