identifying window problems and need for replacement

3 Things To Keep In Mind When Shopping For Energy Efficient Windows For Your Home

If you are in the process of remodeling your home this summer, make sure that you include new windows in your remodeling plans, especially if your windows are older. You should replace your old windows with energy efficient windows. Here are three things you need to keep in mind that will help you find the most energy efficient windows for your home.

Go For Multiple Panes The first thing you need to pay attention to is the number of panes in the windows you are considering. Older windows usually contain one pane of glass; these types of windows are not as efficient as newer windows. Advancements have been made quickly in the window world; you can now purchase double, triple and even quadruple pane windows. Quadruple paned windows are the newest ones on the market and tend to be quite expensive still. As the number of panes increase, so does the energy efficiency that each window provides. If you live in a relatively mild climate, double pane windows are probably all you need. If you live in an area that experiences all four seasons, you'll probably want to go with triple pane windows. If you live somewhere that is cold for most of the year, such as Alaska, than quadruple paned windows may be worth the investment.

Look For Low-E Coatings The next thing you need to keep an eye out for are windows that have Low-E coatings applied to the glass. Low-E coatings are designed to reflect UV rays from the sun away from your house, while at the same time reflecting the heat inside of your home back into it. Low-E coatings are applied to either the inside or outside of a window. This coating tends to be applied on the outside of the glass in areas that have warm climates and to the inside of the glass in areas with colder climates.

Pay Attention To The Weather Stripping When purchasing energy efficient windows, it is important to pay attention to the parts of the window beyond the window pane. The second most important part when looking for energy efficient windows is the weather stripping. The most energy efficient weather stripping for windows that are designed to open and close is compressible gasket style weather stripping. This type of weather stripping moves as you open and close your windows while maintaining an effective seal. When upgrading to energy efficient windows in your home this summer, make sure you go for multiple paned windows with low-e coating that is installed with compressible gasket style weather stripping. This will help keep your energy costs down for years to come.

For more information on replacing your windows, contact a company like Gallagher Bros. Inc.


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