What Makes a Window Energy-Efficient? Insights from a Replacement Windows Company in Mount Prospect, Illinois

09 Apr What Makes a Window Energy-Efficient? Insights from a Replacement Windows Company in Mount Prospect, Illinois

If your home feels freezing in the winter but turns into a sauna in the summer, your windows might be to blame. It is easy to overlook them, but older or badly constructed windows can let a lot of air slip in and out. That means your heating and cooling systems must work harder, which consequently increases your monthly electricity bills.

If you want to maintain your home’s comfort and keep your bills in check, you’ll want to look at some energy-efficient options. But what makes a window energy-efficient? This replacement windows company in Mount Prospect, Illinois is going to explain below.

Frame materials

When you start looking for replacement windows, you will quickly learn that vinyl and wood are the two most common frame types. An experienced replacement windows company in Mount Prospect, Illinois can help you check out both options in person.

Vinyl frames are a homeowner’s favorite for a reason. They are durable and don’t need much maintenance. Many vinyl frames also have hollow spaces inside that can be filled with extra insulation to keep your indoor temperatures nice and comfortable.

Wood frames have a different kind of appeal. They add warmth and coziness to a space, and their natural insulation helps too. You can even stain or paint them any color to match your home’s overall aesthetic. But wood windows do demand a lot of attention. That said, they will last you for decades with proper care.

Glazing

Double- or triple-pane windows have two or three glass panes, with a little space between each one. Those gaps are filled with special gases that slow down heat transfer and maintain indoor comfort. Double-glazed windows are the standard nowadays, but triple-glazed windows offer even better insulation.

Low-E coatings

​Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are extremely thin layers that go on the glass. They reflect heat, and they also block out a lot of UV rays. This UV-blocking prevents your furniture, floors, and any decor items from fading over time.

Gas fills

Those gaps between the panes we mentioned are usually filled with argon or krypton gas. These gases are nontoxic and much better at insulating than air. Argon is more common and budget-friendly, while krypton does an even better job but costs slightly more. Either way, these gases create a thermal barrier on your windows to keep indoor temperatures steady and electricity bills down.

Spacers

Spacers sit between the panes of glass to keep them evenly spaced. Proper spacing keeps the glass from flexing or cracking with temperature changes. It also keeps the sealant intact to stop moisture from fogging up your windows.

Look for “warm edge” spacers, which are designed to reduce condensation at the edge of the window. This helps you maintain a more comfortable indoor environment, and it even improves your home’s overall energy performance.

Thermal breaks

Thermal breaks are strips of insulating plastic built into the frame that stop heat from flowing through the metal too easily. Without these breaks, metal frames can get either too hot or too cold. This is something you don’t want if you are trying to manage your energy use. When installed by an experienced replacement windows company in Mount Prospect, Illinois, these breaks make a noticeable difference.

Looking for a Replacement Windows Company in Mount Prospect, Illinois?

Are you currently shopping for energy-efficient replacement windows? Ready to partner with the best replacement windows company in Mount Prospect, Illinois? If so, Aspen Exterior Company is here for you. We offer a huge selection of energy-efficient options from top manufacturers in the industry. Contact us today at (847) 590-5600 to request a free estimate.