Choosing Gorgeous Windows

Vinyl replacement windows are an excellent choice when you home needs new windows. They are easy to maintain, and they are energy efficient. They seal into the openings well and prevent air leaks that may be giving your home chilly drafts now. New windows could make a difference in your comfort and your power bill. Here are some tips for buying vinyl windows that are energy efficient.

Look For Added Insulation

Vinyl windows are made from PVC which is naturally energy efficient because it does not transfer heat as well as metal or aluminum windows. The window frames can be made even more energy efficient when insulation is added inside the frame. Vinyl window frames have chambers inside. The most energy-efficient models have multiple chambers that are filled with foam insulation. This enhances vinyl's natural ability to insulate your home and ensures you buy the most energy-efficient vinyl windows.

Check For Energy-Efficient Glass

You want to pair energy-efficient glass with vinyl window frames to get the best results. Not all window glass is the same. The more panes in the frame, the more insulation the window has. The air between the panes acts as an insulator, but the most energy-efficient windows have argon gas between the panes since argon has a lower thermal conductivity than air. You can buy windows with two or three panes of glass depending on the amount of protection you need in your climate. Window glass can also be treated to make it even more energy efficient. It might do this by reflecting solar heating to make your air conditioner more efficient in summer and by blocking heat transfer to keep your home warmer in winter.

Read The Window Labels

It isn't necessary to buy the most energy-efficient windows on the market to get good results in your home. The more efficient the windows are, the more they cost. You might waste money if your climate doesn't need ultra-efficient windows. A professional at the window showroom will help you choose the right windows for your area based on experience or the use of software simulators. You can tell how energy-efficient the vinyl windows are by looking at the labels on them.

You'll want windows with an Energy Star label. You can also look at the NFRC rating label that lets you know how the window performs when it comes to blocking air leaks, resisting condensation, blocking heat loss, and resisting solar heating. One type of vinyl window may not be suitable for every home. You may even want different degrees of efficiency for different sides of your home. You'll want to consider factors like sun exposure on the windows and your budget when you shop for new energy-efficient vinyl windows.