Are energy-efficient windows really energy-efficient?

There are many things to consider when you are in the market for new windows. We know that the process can sometimes seem complex, so we wanted to simplify it for you. Since there is a lot of information about energy efficiency out there, we asked our professionals to narrow down the most important information about energy-efficient opening systems. With the help of our installers, fabricators, and design specialists, we put together a comprehensive list of essential elements regarding energy-efficient windows.

What do we mean by “energy efficient windows”?

An energy-efficient window is engineered to stop air from escaping your home. This air exchange between the inside and the outside of your home is responsible for about a third of your energy use. There are a few elements that can make a window more or less energy-consuming. We want to help make your home as comfortable as it can be, so here are a few tips that will help you make an informed decision.

Glazing

Most homeowners don’t know that windows are the second source of heat loss in their home. Single-pane glass offers almost no protection from the heat or cold. Double or triple-pane glass is much less energy-consuming. They hold a layer of inert gas is inserted between the panes that acts as a barrier against the heat and cold. The most important element of energy efficiency in the home is window glazing. Our windows are certified by North American (NAFS) and European standards. We also hold an ENERGY STAR® rating for our high-quality products, ensuring that you truly get energy-efficient products.

Thermal break system

There are many advantages to using aluminum as a frame material. It has unparalleled strength and durability, yet it is light and flexible. To take its energy efficiency to the next level, we use a thermal break system made of polyamides. The role of these polymers is to prevent heat exchange. In other words, our system “breaks” the transmission of heat or cold. That means that you get maximum performance in terms of thermal efficiency and that you get a much more comfortable home environment as a result.

Window coatings 

The orientation of your windows is an important factor to consider when thinking about energy efficiency. The level of efficiency needed will vary from one room to another. For example, in a north-facing room, the windows will require less insulation compared to a south-facing room. In other words, south or west-facing windows will be more efficient with added protection from harmful UV rays.  We offer different types of Low-E coatings for this exact purpose. In warmer weather, the coating blocks the heat out. It filters out harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays and leaves your home full of natural light without raising the temperature or ruining your furniture. In colder weather, it traps the heat inside to create a warming effect. Our range of Low-E glass types will help you regulate your home’s temperature and will make you less reliant on your heating and cooling systems. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), an objective independent organization, has certified Alumalco products. That means that our doors and windows have been tested and certified to be highly energy efficient.

Proper installation

So, you’ve decided to improve your home’s energy efficiency, you’ve done your research, and you’ve selected the best windows you could find. Now it’s time to look over your investment by hiring a team of professionals with experience. A shoddy installation could cause a slew of unexpected, not to mention costly, problems down the road. With proper installation, you can prevent air infiltration, water leaks, and condensation. To ensure that your windows are performing as they should, hiring professional installers is the best solution. Our team has over 50 years of installation experience and uses the latest tools and technologies.

As you can see, you need to factor in energy efficiency to make an informed decision about purchasing new windows. By doing so, you will simultaneously be checking the overall level of quality of the window. In other words, if windows are energy efficient, they will have superior sound insulation and weatherproofing capacities as well. These aspects also greatly affect your comfort level in your home. As an added bonus, energy-efficient windows also have the advantage of lowering your carbon footprint by reducing your heating and cooling needs.

If you would like to find out more about our energy-efficient windows, our experts are always ready to answer all of your questions.