Energy efficiency is a very critical equation. Everything ranging from the frames to the glass affects the thermal performance. Also, remember that the windows themselves must be appropriately installed to reach that level of efficiency.
Windows ratings and labels provide all the information and data that you would require for comparing products. However, there are a lot of window characteristics that affect energy efficiency that can’t be explained in a few words.
Below are six varieties of popular custom windows which include at least one solid feature that assists in increasing the efficiency of the windows. Read more to know further.
Types Of Windows
Fixed Windows
These windows don’t provide any serviceability. But, when we talk about energy efficiency, it always excels. When you open any picture window, you will never break the seal. Fixed windows are great for parts of your home that don’t need any ventilation. In a wall of windows, this design can assist in keeping away vast expanses of glass from being drafty.
Hinged Windows
Hinged Windows are primarily known for ventilation purposes. With just a hand push, they can pivot outward on a hinge. This window provides a significant advantage as it can be slid closed and opened. It also has lower air leakage rates.
Casement Windows, awning Windows and hopper Windows are all varieties of hinged Windows. The only dissimilarity between them is where the hinge is located, that is, side, top or bottom. These Windows are utilised for ventilation and can also be paired with picture Windows to add sensibility to your window combinations.
Energy Star Windows
While every variety of Windows is labelled with energy performance ratings, only energy-efficient Windows have a blue sticker from Energy Star.
These Windows are certified especially by the government and rely on performance ratings similar to the National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC. In case you spot an energy star logo, know that the window is highly efficient. However, remember that the energy star window relies upon climate and geography.
Insulated Windows
This one has been used for centuries now. These are the single-pane windows. In the 20th century, adding up one more glass pane offered extra insulation. Today, these windows don’t just have a different pane. But, these windows are also separated by insulating glass. Hence, triple pane windows provide five layers of protection. And, this, in turn, helps in making the windows more efficient.
Low-E Windows
The outside of the window is also very crucial. The low emissive coating outside the Window panes, which are described as Low-E panes, helps boost thermal performance. It blocks the harmful infrared and ultraviolet rays and let’s just the visible light.
It is linked with heat energy. Low-E Windows assist in keeping the heat from the sun from getting inside your home. On colder days, low-E glasses help reflect the heat to keep your home warm during winters while maintaining efficiency.
There are four kinds of Low-E Windows. They are:
1. Advanced Low-E Insulating Glass
It is an all-rounder and can fit any climate in any country. It also blocks 84% of the ultraviolet rays when utilised on a dual-pane Window and 86% on a triple pane window.
2. Advanced Comfort Low-E Insulating Glass
It is curated for northern climates. It adds up to the energy efficiency by 1 per cent for both multi-pane and single window types.
3. SunDefense Low-E Insulating Glass
This is mainly for warm, humid and sunny areas. It blocks around 94% of the UV light in the case of dual panes and about 95% in triple panes.
4. Natural Sun Low-E Insulating Glass
Allows the majority of the light to enter your place. It blocks only 69% of the ultraviolet rays on dual pane windows and 74% on triple-pane windows. It is excellent for nations having colder climates.
- Lifestyle Series Windows
They are designed to make your life better and easier. It is one of the most energy-efficient Windows of all time. They are created with wooden frames and provide natural insulation. They provide triple-pane glass and a variety of energy-saving characteristics too. They are 83% more energy efficient.
Final Takeaway
It doesn’t matter what styles you prefer or where you live; you can always make your home safer and energy efficient by choosing the correct elements. You can select Windows according to your will and get them customised according to your needs and preferences.
