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Thanks to modern technologies, windows have grown more sophisticated over time, becoming more effective today at helping improve home energy efficiency. To achieve this, window framing materials have been highlighted the most, but what many don’t realize is that how a window operates also has a hand in determining its energy efficiency level. In this ebook, you’ll be learning more about the three most energy-efficient styles based on how they operate, giving you a better idea of the replacement window options available to you.
PART I: PICTURE WINDOWS
Windows are generally designed to open, but there are times when an inoperable window is a better choice. Picture windows are primarily designed to frame outdoor views, but the way they are designed also makes them the most energy-efficient window style on the market today, especially with the inclusion of new window technologies. WHAT IS A PICTURE WINDOW? Picture windows are fixed windows, which means they do not open and close. They get their name from being designed to frame outdoor views, making it look like you’re looking at a framed picture through a huge expanse of glass. Picture windows are often installed in properties with high or vaulted ceilings, but will work well in a variety of home styles, particularly complementing modern-themed homes.
WHAT MAKES PICTURE WINDOWS ENERGY-EFFICIENT? Gone are the days when one would look at a huge picture window and automatically think about how much heat and energy goes in and out of that wide expanse of glass. Today, this fixed window offers energy efficiency by:
PART I: PICTURE WINDOWS
Preventing air leakage - Because picture windows are fixed, they are installed not just to be adequately sealed, but to also have zero gaps within the unit itself, making them more airtight than other window styles. This prevents air leakage, keeping indoor heat in and outdoor heat out, ensuring you are cool during summer and warm in winter. Letting in a lot of natural light - Picture windows allow large amounts of natural light in, helping reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Picture windows come in a wide range of sizes, and may be combined with operable windows to boost function. Depending on the units chosen, the combination of window styles can give rise to even better energy efficiency for the home. For instance, a picture window paired with casements or double-hung windows will additionally offer natural ventilation, easing cooling requirements. ooooo
What other window styles can help you improve home energy efficiency? In the next post, we’ll be talking about another option for you to consider: casement windows. Stay tuned!
PART 2: CASEMENT WINDOWS
Casement windows are cranked to open to the side, making them great for specific applications, such as in areas where reaching a window may be a challenge. However, due to how they operate, casements are also considered the second most energy-efficient window style. WHAT IS A CASEMENT WINDOW? Casement windows are widely known for their design and operation: hinged on one side and typically opening outward. They are operated by a manual, or sometimes automatic, mechanism that allows the window sash to be cranked open. As such, this window style is convenient to use, doing away with the need to to lift up the sash to open. WHAT MAKES CASEMENT WINDOWS ENERGY-EFFICIENT? Casement windows are touted as the second most energy-efficient type of window. Their benefits include: • Airtight seals. Casement windows generally have lower air leakage rates than other operable windows because the sashes press tightly shut against frames when they are closed. This creates an airtight seal, keeping indoor heat in and outdoor heat out to stabilize the temperature inside the home.
PART 2: CASEMENT WINDOWS
Top-to-bottom ventilation. Casement window can be fully opened, creating an unobstructed source of ventilation and airflow. Sashes can also be angled specifically to catch breezes and direct fresh air into the home. Casements can be energy-efficient on their own, but they get a further boost in energy efficiency when fitted with low-E glass. Coated with microscopically thin metallic oxide and featuring multi-pane construction, this glass keeps passive heating at bay, which helps in stabilizing indoor temperatures. This prevents your HVAC system from working overtime, allowing for more efficient energy use.
Interested in harnessing daylighting for your home? Casement windows feature expansive glass areas that let in a lot of natural light. This makes it possible to not depend on artificial lighting during the day, which also contributes to energy savings for you. ooooo
Next, you’ll get to know another energy-efficient window option: the double-hung window. Learn more about this timeless choice in Part 3 of this ebook. Stay tuned!
PART 3: DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS
Double-hung windows have been favored by homeowners in the United States for decades, which isn’t surprising given what the window style has to offer. Thanks to traditional yet timeless appearance and operation, the double-hung windowmatches practically anytype of architectural design, but did you know that it is also among the top three most energy-efficient windows around? Read on to learn how this is possible. WHAT IS A DOUBLE HUNG WINDOW? Double-hung windows are characterized by two sashes that operate vertically by sliding up and down. Depending on your preference, they can be fitted with muntins, adding a decorative effect to the window that complements a range of home styles.
WHAT MAKES IT ENERGY-EFFICIENT? Primarily, double-hung windows are great for providing a room maximum airflow and ventilation as both sashes are operable. Window sashes may even be configuredto meet in the middle, providing openings at the top and bottom from which stale indoor air may escape from and fresh outdoor air may come in. Natural ventilation eases cooling requirements for a home, keeping cooling systems from unnecessarily guzzling energy to keep you comfortable.
PART 3: DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS
Other energy efficiency-related benefits the window style offers include: • Sufficient natural lighting. Double-hung windows can have expansive glass areas when installed without muntins or grilles, allowing a lot of natural light in. This can aid daylighting efforts, lessening dependence on artificial lighting during the day.
• Superior insulation. When a double-hung window is made with a highly insulative, weather-tight frame and low-emissivity (low-E) glass, it fares better at stopping heat transfer, keeping indoor heat in and outdoor heat out to keep you cool in the summer and warm during winter. Double-hung windows have come a long way from the first units to be installed in American homes, but the window style remains a favorite, especially now that it has proven itself a great choice for improving energy efficiency in the home. ooooo
As windows contribute a great deal to your home’s energy efficiency, it pays to know which styles are the most energy-efficient. This will allow you to pick out the best replacement windows for your home, ensuring you make the most of your investment. If you wish to learn more about picture, casement and double-hung windows, don’t hesitate to give your local window expert a call today.
Renewal by Andersen of Orange County 22982 Alcalde Drive, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 (949) 216-7711 www.dialonewindows.com