More often than not, windows are built to last for years. Replacing them may cost a lot as the value of the new windows may be as costly as the installation. On the other hand, retaining your existing windows may also be expensive so occasionally check them for repairs. Many older windows are made of ordinary materials, single-pane, and may lack coating. These factors may increase your energy consumption because heat easily builds up in your home during the summer and it usually escapes easily during the winter.
Old windows especially those that are made of wood entails high maintenance as well. You might be looking for a contractor who specializes on windows installation in Atlanta. Renewal by Andersen is one of your best options as they offer the latest window technologies. But first let us find out some of the benefits of replacing your windows.
With the advent of state-of-the-art windows, aesthetics comes secondary to its energy-saving capability. They may cost more but they promise low maintenance return and extreme comfort for your home. They are built of quality materials for better heating and cooling system. Thus, they can be considered weather-proof and energy efficient.
Facilitiesnet.com states that there are two measures that indicate how much energy is escaping through the windows:
The U-value measures the rate of heat transfer through the window. In other words, it indicates the amount of heat lost or gained based on the temperature difference between the interior and exterior. The lower the U-value number, the better. The R-value is the inverse of the U-value, so the higher the R-value, the more the window resists heat flow.
The usual culprit that can cause energy loss is the lack of proper insulation. Fortunately, the latest windows available today have two panes of glass with a pocket of air between them. This helps minimize heat loss during the cold season and heat gain during hot days. The gas that is commonly used is argon which is nontoxic, clear, and odorless.
In some window options, krypton is used. It is pricier but it offers better thermal performance and is a better alternative when the space between the panes is very narrow. Most of the commercial windows available are also tinted or coated with a low-e metallic layer to improve thermal performance. It also reduces light transmittance as it blocks a certain amount of sunlight that passes through. A low-e (low emissivity) coating is said to even reflect infrared and ultraviolet rays. It also allows daylight to enter your home thus it lowers lighting energy use.
Windows that are available today do not come in various shapes, styles, and sizes; they also adhere to energy-saving technologies that will give your home the comfortable ambiance it deserves regardless of the season. If you’re considering replacement windows such as double hung windows in Atlanta, feel free to contact Renewal by Andersen. We have been innovating windows for more than 110 years and with our experience, expect us to provide the best option suitable for your home.
