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One of the primary reasons why Dayton homeowners replace their windows is to save money on energy. Old windows, particularly those made from wood and with a single glass pane, are terribly inefficient, and they only become more so as they continue to age. New windows can reduce your energy bills significantly, but not all new windows are created the same. You want to choose windows that don’t just reduce energy consumption when they are new, but that also remain efficient as they age. Here are some characteristics to look for in the most energy-efficient windows for your Dayton home.
Durable Sashes
One of the reasons windows become less efficient as they age is that the sash material tends to break down. Once the sash starts breaking down, the glass loosens within the sash, and air starts leaking between the glass and frame. You can combat this problem by choosing windows with sashes that are less prone to deterioration and rot.
One great option for window sashes is Fibrex®, a wood composite material from Renewal by Andersen. Fibrex is made from wood, so it looks like wood and is a sustainable, natural choice. However, it is resistant to rot and bending as it ages, so it prevents the development of air leaks. Fibrex windows remain efficient as they age, unlike wood or aluminum windows.
Performance Glass
Plain glass is not a very good insulator. Heat passes right through single-pane windows, making them terribly inefficient. The best energy-efficient windows do not rely on plain glass to stop the flow of heat. Rather, they feature glass that has been specifically prepared and treated to reflect heat waves. SmartSun™ glass is an example of highly efficient glass. It features a low-e coating that reflects heat, meaning that in the summer, your home stays cooler, and in the winter, your home stays warmer.
Also make sure you choose double-pane windows. The layer of air between the two glass panels is a much better insulator than the glass itself!
Energy Star Logo
A quick way to tell whether the windows you’re looking at meet the minimal standards for energy efficiency is to look for the Energy Star logo. Energy Star is a program organized by the EPA. The logo is only placed on products that meet the EPA’s guidelines for efficiency. Some Energy Star windows are more efficient than others, so it’s still important to consider the other items discussed in this article. However, looking for the Energy Star logo is a good starting point.
Professional Installation
Even the highest quality window may be leaky and inefficient if it is not installed properly. Many homeowners who attempt to install their own windows are disappointed in their efficiency. For this reason, it is always best to hire a professional to install windows in your Dayton home. They will make sure the windows are properly sized and sealed to prevent air leaks. Most installation companies also back their work with a warranty, so if anything goes wrong, you are covered.
Buying cheap windows at a big box store and installing them yourself may save you money up-front, but it will cost you in the long run if the windows start leaking and require premature replacement.
To learn more about the most energy-efficient windows for your Dayton home, contact Renewal by Andersen. We offer free, in-home consultations and hundreds of options.