Window Insulation
Insulation works by trapping air or other gases. This is why your puffy, down jacket keeps you warmer than your windbreaker. Both stop the drafts, but that windbreaker lets your bodyheat radiate away from you. The question is: Why would you allow your home to have the equivalent of windbreakers for windows? Let's examine the role of energy efficient windows.
If water leaks through window frames, or condensation forms, your windows are not airtight. Moisture also creates mold that may negatively impact your health while rotting away window frames and walls. To add insult to injury, condensation obscures the view from your windows.
What to Look for in a New Window
ENERGY STAR-rated windows are energy efficient windows that come in dozens of combinations of frame materials, sealed panes, and coatings..
- Frame materials: Conductivity of window frame materials from lowest to highest is: fiberglass, insulated vinyl, clad wood, wood, and aluminum. Yet aluminum, which is very strong, can be be ENERGY STAR-rated if it's insulated and has a thermal break material between pane and frame.
- Window panes: Air sealed between panes works well in mild climates. Inert gases are heavier than air and insulate better. Triple-pane fiberglass windows with inert gas are the ultimate in energy efficient windows.
- Coatings: Microscopically thin metallic coatings inside sealed panes enhance the low emittance (Low-E) of energy. There are also coatings for impact and sound reduction.
The U.S. Department of Energy's ENERGY STAR website has a wealth of information for every climate and region. Perhaps it's time to start enjoying monthly savings with new windows. And don't forget your doors, where the same principles apply.
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April 15, 2015
Energy Star made some changes between 2014 and 2015. So are your windows still meeting their standards? Find out here.... More >>
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April 24, 2012
Sustainable window treatments can cut your energy use while protecting your family from toxic chemicals. Explore some of the latest choices.... More >>
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April 02, 2012
For 20 years, ENERGY STAR has developed ratings for windows, doors and appliances, helping us save almost $230 billion on utility bills.... More >>
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