Windows are the gatekeepers to how much sunshine sneaks into your home and helps maintain consistent temperatures. New windows should be energy efficient and carry the ENERGY STAR label to ensure they meet performance criteria for your climate zone.
Choosing the right materials and glazing options will increase your window’s performance. Multiple panes of glass, insulated gas (like argon or krypton), and coatings can improve the window’s insulating ability.
They Increase Your Home’s Value
When it comes to upgrading your home’s windows, you want quality products that match the architectural style of your house and offer functionality you can depend on. Fortunately, you can count on the state-of-the-art insulated glass and foam-filled frames of Energy-efficient windows Birmingham AL to help your heating and cooling systems work less hard, which ultimately results in reduced energy usage and lower utility bills.
These high-performance windows are available with Low-E/Argon glazing, which consists of two layers of glass separated by a spacer that is filled with inert gases to improve insulation and reduce heat transfer. They also feature a low U-factor to minimize thermal loss and a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) to limit heat gain in warmer climates.
Double-hung windows can be opened vertically from the top or bottom, allowing for increased ventilation and easy cleaning. They’re ideal for rooms that need tall windows and are made of durable materials to withstand the elements.
They Protect Your Family from the Sun’s UV Rays
Energy efficient windows block harmful UV rays from your home, which can fade wood, fabric, paper, artwork and furnishings over time. This feature keeps your family more comfortable and saves you money on re-staining and re-painting these items.
Typically, older windows develop cracks and gaps that allow heat to escape in the winter and enter during the summer, forcing your heating and cooling system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. New replacement windows are engineered to reduce heat transfer with advanced sealing technologies and multiple panes of glass filled with insulating gases like argon or krypton.
When choosing replacement windows for your Alabama home, look for ones that have a high U-factor rating and low SHGC rating to help improve your home’s comfort and efficiency. Additionally, look for windows that offer a wide selection of design styles to match your architectural aesthetic. This way, you can be sure your new windows will look great and add value to your home.
They Reduce Your Energy Bills
In addition to helping you reduce your carbon footprint, energy-efficient windows can also dramatically lower your home’s heating and cooling costs. The state-of-the-art insulated glass and foam-filled frames of these new windows help maintain your home’s internal temperature without forcing your heating or cooling system to work overtime.
In fact, studies show that replacing old single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR certified insulated windows can save up to $465 per year for the average 3-bedroom home!
Modern windows also come equipped with special coatings that minimize solar heat gain and reflect a significant amount of unwanted UV radiation. This helps your furniture, carpets, and other household items retain their vibrancy and prevents the buildup of condensation that can result in mold and rot. Additionally, the insulating effects of these windows also minimize ambient noise from traffic, sirens, and other outdoor sources, contributing to a more comfortable living environment.
They Enhance Your Home’s Appearance
Energy efficient windows Birmingham AL can improve your home’s curb appeal and make it more appealing to potential buyers. These types of windows have a sleek, clean look that will add value to your home. They also require less maintenance, making them a good investment for your property.
These windows are designed to prevent heated or cooled air from escaping, which saves you money on your electricity bills. Additionally, they block out the sun’s harmful UV rays, which protects you and your family from skin problems.
The type of frame and glass you choose for your windows will impact their energy efficiency. For example, wood frames are a great insulator and are ideal for Alabama’s hot summers. However, you should avoid aluminum frames because they conduct heat and cold easily. You should also opt for double or triple pane windows with a gas fill, such as argon, to increase their insulation. This will help you reduce your home’s cooling costs in the summer and heating costs in the winter.