Gas Impacts On Replacement Windows

If you want to increase the energy efficiency in your home, one of the best ways is to get replacement windows. If you have older windows, that much might be obvious to you. But there are plenty of options involved with new windows. You need to think about the materials, the glass and many things in between—literally.

What Lies Between The Window Panes?

If your old windows had a single pane of glass, that wasn’t doing much good for your home. Glass doesn’t insulate by itself, but when you place two panes of glass in a window frame and you leave a space between them, it can help your energy efficiency quite a bit. At first, manufacturers just placed air between the panes and that does a nice job. However, now, there are also gas options that work even better. These gases, including argon and krypton, are denser than air so they act as a barrier between your home and the outside world. They raise energy efficiency and give you the insulation you want in your home.

Which Gas Is Better?

If you look at energy efficiency, krypton gas is the clear leader over argon. However, homeowners don’t always have the luxury of choosing just based on efficiency. Argon gas, for example, is cheaper and more readily available. Most windows go with argon because it is better than air, but cheaper than krypton. But for those who want the height in efficiency, krypton is the better option.

What Else Can Window Panes Do?

The window panes can also be coated with low-e materials between them. This feature is a metallic coating that isn’t visible to the naked eye but reflects heat back to the source. The coating allows you natural views and plenty of lighting, but reduces UV rays and their heat and fading effects. The heat in the summer reflects back out and, in the winter, it stays in.

Can These Enhancements Save Homeowners Money?

Most homeowners have monthly mortgages, utility bills, and other regular expenses. If you look at the utility bills alone, they vary based on the season and how much you have to use your HVAC system. When you get energy efficient windows with gas between the panes, they will improve more than replacement windows with air. Every enhancement you make to the windows will show up in a positive way on your bill. That being said, not every homeowner can afford the upfront costs. However, if you can swing it, you’ll save more in the long run and increase the value of your home even further.

Are you ready to learn even more about replacement windows? Contact the experts at Z Double B, Inc. and ask any questions you have about energy efficiency and the enhancements available to you. Call us at (303) 997-8168 and we’ll go over the material options, among other things. You can also stop by our showroom at 12860 W Cedar Dr #110B, Lakewood, CO 80228 for an in-depth look at various qualities.