Upgrading your windows is a great way to improve your home’s aesthetics and save energy. Old windows let heat escape, increasing energy bills. Newer windows with efficient glass and seals help reduce energy costs. Window companies offer a variety of frame materials, colors, grids, and hardware options to match homeowner preferences.
Energy-efficient windows
Upgrading old windows to energy-efficient ones helps reduce the amount of money homeowners spend on heating and cooling. Energy-efficient windows also reduce carbon emissions, which benefit the environment. In addition, they can reduce drafts and cold spots, and improve the appearance of a home.
Window contractors offer a variety of frame materials, colors, grids, and hardware to suit homeowner preferences. They can also provide a warranty for their work. Energy-efficient windows also help protect the interior of the home from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) rates windows for their insulating properties, visible transmittance, solar heat gain coefficient, air leakage, and more. The better the NFRC rating, the more energy efficient the window will be. The type of glass also makes a difference, with insulated glass offering better energy efficiency than non-insulated glass.
Hurricane impact windows
Hurricane impact windows are an excellent investment for homeowners in areas prone to severe weather like hurricanes and tropical storms. They offer superior protection from wind and flying debris that can cause significant damage to a home or commercial building. They’re also able to resist intruders that might try to break into the home through the window or door.
They’re thicker and sturdier than standard windows and have stronger frames that can withstand high winds. They also provide cost efficiency through insurance discounts and energy savings. Many manufacturers offer a variety of frames, grids, colors, hardware, and glass options that suit homeowner preferences. They may even provide a warranty for their work. This ensures that the homeowner will be happy with their choice for years to come.
Security windows
Most homeowners focus on security doors, but windows can be equally vulnerable. Burglars use them to “window shop” for items they can steal from inside the home. They can also be smashed or climbed through.
Replacing windows with reinforced glass or tempered glass will increase the strength of the window. However, this will raise the cost of the installation and may not be an option for every homeowner.
A more affordable alternative is security window film, which can be applied to existing windows. It is a thick adhesive that holds glass together in the event of an impact and can be paired with frosted window film to reduce glare and privacy. Some of these films also reduce the amount of heat entering a building and minimize harmful UV rays.
Insulated glass
Choosing the right glass for your windows is critical to energy efficiency and comfort. Without it, windows are an important source of heat loss in the winter and cool air loss in the summer. Fortunately, you can get around this issue by installing insulated windows. These windows, also known as insulating glass units (IGUs), are made of two panes with a spacer between them. The spacer is filled with either air or gas to act as an insulator.
Insulated windows can help regulate temperature and reduce energy costs. They also prevent UV rays from penetrating the interior of your home, which can cause photos, paintings, curtains, and carpets to fade. They can even lower the noise levels of your house. However, it is important to note that insulated windows are not easily repaired and may fog up if the seal breaks.
Soundproofing
If you’re looking to reduce noise pollution in your home, a soundproofing window is an excellent choice. These windows are specially designed with multiple layers of glass and a thick frame to help block out unwanted sounds. They can also save energy and money.
A professional can guide you through the selection process and recommend a style that best fits your needs. They can also offer a variety of window designs, frame materials, colors, grids, and hardware options to match your design preferences.
When selecting a window contractor, check their credentials and customer reviews. A reputable company should be accredited by major window brands and industry groups, and have a clean Better Business Bureau record. They should also have a valid contractor’s license and insurance.