Although most windows made today offer some thermal insulation properties, they cannot all be accurately described as energy-efficient windows. If you would like to invest in energy-saving windows for your home or business premises and want to know what features you should be looking out for, then read on. Below are five of the most common methods window manufacturers have at their disposal to make their products better at preventing heat transfers.

1. Double or Triple Glazing

Perhaps the most widely understood development in window production from the perspective of energy efficiency is how most manufacturers now avoid only using a single pane of glass in their products. However, energy-efficient windows aren't just double-glazed models because they can be even more effective with triple glazing. One or two additional panes of glass create an invisible insulating layer between them. This design drastically reduces heat transference. Consequently, your interior will remain warm during the winter months and cooler during hot spells, thereby conserving energy for both internal heating and cooling.

2. Low-Emissivity Coatings

Commonly referred to simply as low-e, low-emissivity coatings are microscopically thin layers. Made from metal or metallic oxide, these coatings are deposited on the surface of one or more of the window's panes. Low-e coatings reflect radiant infrared energy while allowing the visible spectrum to pass through so you can see. This helps to ensure that more indoor heat stays inside when your central heating is on. This reflection capability also means energy-efficient windows help to prevent interiors from overheating when the sun is out without the need for curtains or blinds.

3. Warm Edge Spacers

The distance between the glazing layers of most energy-efficient windows is maintained by spacers. Older-style windows often use a metal spacer, which can be a conduit through which heat will transfer. Energy-efficient models use warm edge spacers made of insulating materials instead. These significantly reduce unwanted thermal losses.

4. Gas Fills

Some of the most energy-efficient double and triple-glazed units have their cavities filled with inert gases, such as argon or krypton, among others. These gases are denser than air. Therefore, they provide superior insulation than windows which only have air inside.

5. Insulating Framing Materials

Finally, the choice of framing material can also influence any window's energy efficiency. While metal frames, such as aluminum, have high strength, they also tend to allow for higher rates of thermal conductivity. Typically, energy-efficient windows often have vinyl, wood, or fiberglass frames. Some frames, including aluminum ones, are made with built-in thermal breaks inside. These are insulating barriers that prevent the frame from conducting heat so effectively.

Contact a professional to learn more about energy-efficient windows. 

Share