Are you thinking about renovating your home? Many homeowners tend to overlook this aspect, but upgrading your windows to be energy-efficient is a great move that will add value to your home.
If you plan to put up your home for sale after renovation, improving your windows to be more energy-efficient will fetch you more profit. Consider selling your home to an iBuyer if you don’t want to undergo the hassle of selling your home.
It is said that the heat you lose and gain through windows accounts for 25%–30% of heating and cooling energy use in your home. You will be saving a lot of money in the long run if you decide to invest in them now. Plus, the comfort you get is immeasurable.
Don’t know how energy-efficient windows work?
Here is what you should know about them.
Low-E glass in energy-efficient windows to block the sun rays
Energy-efficient windows come with a Low-emissivity glass, also called Low-E glass, that blocks 90% of the sun rays. Thus, it traps the heat in your room when it is cold and keeps the heat outside when the temperature is hot.
Instead of Low-E glass, you can also go for other glazing options such as tints, gas fills, and reflective coatings.
100% polymer structural foam in energy-efficient windows
In traditional windows, you will see the use of metals in window insulation. But energy-efficient windows make use of 100% polymer structural foam to ensure your windows are thermally-efficient and condensation free. Note that, the lower the U value (flow of heat and its conduction) of your window, the greater the efficiency. It is said that the U value should be below 0.3.
Multiple panes to block the UV rays
In some of the new energy-efficient windows, you will find the double-pane and triple-paned glass. They are used to block the UV rays effectively. If you install a triple-paned glass window, you can block up to 97% of the UV rays. Using such windows keeps you comfortable throughout the year. They also prevent your fabrics, flooring, and other belongings from fading while you enjoy the natural light.
Use of gas in filling space to reduce heat transfer
In energy-efficient windows, gases, including Krypton gas and Argon gas, are used (instead of air as in traditional windows) to fill the space between two glass panes. It is done to reduce heat transfer, thereby transforming your home into an even more energy-efficient home.
Gas-filled windows with Low-E coatings are especially recommended in colder climates to reduce heat loss.
Visible Transmission glass (VT) to control glare and heat
If you live in the northern hemisphere, Visible Transmission glass will be a great option. They are known to control glare and heat. VT rating falls between 0 to 1. The higher the VT rating, the more light your window will transmit.
Tinted windows to control solar heat gain
Tinted windows will not only increase the privacy of your home, but they are capable of controlling solar heat gains. If you want to lower your air conditioning bills, go for windows with a good (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) SHGC rating. They will block the penetration of solar heat through the window glass.
The SHGC rating falls between 0 to 1. A window with a lower SHGC rating is preferable.
Installation of energy-efficient windows
To properly install the window and maximize energy efficiency, it is recommended that you avail professional help. The window installation process depends on the type of window you have chosen, how your house is built, and the climate you are living in.
Plus, each manufacturer has specific recommendations to make sure the windows are properly air sealed for maximum energy efficiency. You will have to follow the instructions.
Your window may cause issues in the future if they are not properly installed.
Wrapping Up
Whether you plan to sell your home after renovation or live there, upgrading your windows to be more energy-efficient is highly recommended.
You can refer to this article if any doubt arises while purchasing energy-efficient windows.
You will find numerous energy-efficient glass options available today. Check the window’s insulating capabilities and energy efficiency ratings before you purchase them to suit your specific needs.
In case you are looking to buy a new home, it is good to equip yourself with the knowledge of the down payment. It will come handy when you buy a home.
Author Bio:
Richa Parmar is an architect and passionate in the field of designing & creativity. Her inclination towards nature has made her take up a lot of challenging assignments in the subject of “landscape” and also has made her initiate to write blogs. Presently she works as a Senior Manager cum Architect Blogger at GharPedia portal. You can reach her at LinkedIn.
