Energy efficiency is an important factor to many homeowners and commercial property managers. According to researchers at the Energy Institute at the University of Texas, about two-thirds of the energy we consume each year in the United States is wasted. A leak in a window or a poorly installed door can cause energy waste that, over time, can amount to a major financial drain. That’s why it is important to have your windows and doors checked for proper sealing and outfitted with the most modern insulation technology to save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and bring your utility bills down.
Choose the Right Window Framing
A window’s frame is the material that supports the glass. There are various types of frames available, each offering a different set of energy-saving benefits. Popular types of window frames include:
Composite – Composite window frames are made of composite wood products, such as laminated strand lumber and particleboard. Composite frames are sturdy and stable and stand up well to moisture. They have optimal thermal properties for keeping heat in or out of a structure, depending on the season.
Aluminum/metal – While aluminum and metal frames are strong and easy to maintain, they conduct heat rapidly. If your building has these types of window frames, consult with a window installation service about adding a thermal break to reduce heat flow.
Vinyl – A vinyl window frame is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with ultraviolet light (UV) stabilizers that resist sunlight. Vinyl framing has good moisture resistance and can be filled with insulation, making them thermally superior to some other frames and energy efficient.
Wood – Wood window frames can be insulated well but can require a lot of upkeep. Cladding with materials such as aluminum or vinyl can make them easier to maintain and more efficient, although metal cladding will cause for reduced thermal performance.
Fiberglass – Fiberglass frames have air cavities that can be filled with insulation. This makes them an ideal choice when it comes to regulating temperature compared with other materials.
Replace Older Exterior Doors
If your building has older doors, there is a good chance they are not optimally sealed against air leaks. If it is difficult to control internal temperatures, your doors may even have been installed incorrectly. In order to improve energy efficiency, you will want to choose doors with good energy performance ratings in relation to your local climate. Some efficient types of doors include:
Fiberglass – Fiberglass exterior doors are manufactured with solid polyurethane foam cores. These cores insulate the doors against even extreme external temperature. Fiberglass doors can be made to look like wooden doors if you prefer a wood look but want something energy efficient.
Insulated Steel – Although steel is not a particular efficient material, many steel exterior doors are made with an insulated core. These types of doors are highly effective in remaining durable over time and keeping internal temperatures regular. They are usually more affordable than fiberglass doors and are nearly as efficient.
Vinyl – A vinyl door is a great choice for reducing a building or home’s emissions. Vinyl doors block external heat and cold air from entering the building through strong thermal insulation.
Use Energy-Efficient Glass or Glazing
One of the biggest factors when it comes to energy-efficient windows is the type of glazing or glass that is used. Depending on a range of factors such as climate and building design, you may even need different types of glazing and/or glass for different windows. Single glazing is common in older buildings, but newer, more efficient buildings generally have double or triple glazing on windows.
If you have an older building, you may want to work with a window glazing professional to assess your needs. The following are some popular efficient window technologies:
Low-Emissivity Coating – Low-emissivity (low-e) is a thin, invisible metal or metallic oxide layer placed on the surface of one or more than one pane of glass. Low-e coatings control heat transfer within the insulated glazing. Windows that are made with low-e coasting usually cost a bit more, but they reduce energy loss by 30-50%. It lowers the window’s U-factor, or the rate at which the glass transmits non-solar heat flow, making it a great choice for energy preservation.
Insulation – Insulated window glazing involves using two or more panes of glass. The panes are spaced apart and sealed, leaving an insulating air space. Insulating your windows will lower their U-factors and help keep external temperatures from leaking in and creating strain on your electric bill.
Work With a Door Framing Professional
Most doors are pre-hung upon purchase. Pre-hung doors come with either steel or wood frames. The existing doorframe will need to be removed before the new door can be installed. The frame must be even and meticulously planned and laid out so that the new door can seal tightly to the jamb and operate properly. It is best to work with a door installation service to ensure the door is installed for optimal energy efficiency.
Invest in Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping runs along the bottom, top, and sides of a door frame. It can also be placed in a window sash to accommodate the sliding panes. It acts as a seal against heat or cold air that might leak in through these spaces. According to the Department of Energy, weatherstripping can make a building 20% more efficient.
Weatherstripping comes in different materials, and the right one must be selected for each window and door based on a number of factors. Popular energy-efficient types weatherstripping include:
Vinyl – Thought a bit more expensive than some other types, vinyl weatherstripping lasts a long time. It also resists moisture especially well, making it a great choice for buildings in rainier or more humid climates.
Frost Brake Threshold – A solid threshold made from silicone interrupts the flow or cold or hot air. They are an especially good choice for extreme temperature areas.
Metal – Bronze, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum weatherstripping has the potential to last for many years. They are affordable and provide a strong seal around doors and windows.
Bottom Line
Leaks in your windows and doors could be costing you a significant amount of money. Fortunately, modern technologies can help reduce your emissions and make it easier to maintain better internal temperatures for your home or commercial property. If you suspect your windows and doors may need replacing and/or updating for better energy efficiency, reach out to a local door and window leak sealing company.
