Can You Save Money with Quality Windows?

Posted by on Friday, June 7th, 2019 at 8:25am.

Energy-Efficient Window UpgradesWindows, you normally do not worry about these as a home owner, but you probably should. They can make a huge difference in your pocketbook at the end of the year in heating and wear and tear on your furniture and flooring. When you live in Edmonton, it gets mighty cold, and heat loss through windows adds quite a bit of money to your heating bill every month.

Which Type of Windows Should You Consider?

Look for Triple Pane windows containing argon gas and a low thermal emissivity coating. Many home builders in Edmonton prefer to put in lesser quality double pane windows lacking the low thermal emissivity coating as they save money on their bottom line, but seek out a window company in Edmonton that you can trust and make these triple pane windows a necessity.

The reasons for argon gas and low thermal emissivity is because argon gas is heavier than air thus, reduces airflow and convection, thereby it reduces heating loss in the winter. The low thermal emissivity helps keep heat out of your home in the summer as it reflects harmful UV rays that not only heat up your house, but also results in the fading of furniture and flooring.

An added bonus is that the low thermal emissivity also acts as an extra layer of insulation and a sound barrier. This can help when your neighbor decides to mow the lawn early in the morning or have a late-night party.

Other Types of Energy-Efficient Window Upgrades to Consider

An important consideration when choosing an energy efficient window is how you want them to operate. There are different features at different price points, each with different levels of energy efficiency.

  • Casement and awning windows are both meant to open outward and operate using a cranking handle.
  • Awning windows are hinged at the top whereas casement windows open from the side.
  • Hopper windows open inward and are hinged so that they open from the bottom. Operation is similar to casement and awning style windows in that a crank is used to open.
  • Fixed pane windows do not open at all and offer the lowest amount of air leakage, but should only be used in areas where ventilation is not a priority. For example, fixed pane styles are excellent choices for windows that are out of reach in tall entryways, vaulted rooms, or in spaces that are not designated as habitable such as closets, storage rooms, and hallways.
  • Sliding and hung windows are the most common type found in homes, but both are located at the bottom of the energy-efficiency list as they do not close as tightly as hinged windows such as casement, awning, or hopper styles.

Single- and double-sliding windows function by hand and move from side to side. Single- and double-hung windows also operate by hand, and typically open by sliding up. To achieve the tightest seal on these types of windows, engaging the lock mechanism can sometimes provide the best closure.

Upgrade Your Windows to Save Money Today

Though triple paned windows are expensive, the cost of installation is more than worth its value in savings after the first couple of years. Especially in Edmonton, where you have extremely harsh winters and hot summers. These windows are a great investment to help you save on your heating bill as well as save some wear on your flooring and furniture.

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