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Energy-efficient windows can help reduce your heating and cooling costs while also improving the overall comfort of your home, so there are a few key factors you’ll want to keep in mind to make the right choice.
When doing our research, we have talked to many Canadian window and door installation experts, so now we are ready to share a few things for you to consider when choosing the best energy-efficient windows for your home. Interested? Keep reading.
What factors influence the energy efficiency of your new windows?
Every Canadian homeowner expects improved energy efficiency when they install new windows. However, there are various factors to bear in mind that directly impact the thermal performance of your windows and, ultimately, your home.
Energy-efficient glass type
The type of glass your window goes with will have the most significant impact on its energy efficiency performance. There are three primary types of energy-efficient glass to choose from:
- Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass: Low-E glass is designed to reflect heat into your home, rather than allowing it to escape. This can help keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing your annual energy bills.
- Gas-filled windows: Gas-filled windows are filled with inert gas, such as argon or krypton, between the panes of glass. This gas acts as an insulator, helping to improve the overall thermal performance of your windows.
- Solar control glass: Solar control glass is treated with a low-emissivity coating that helps reflect the sun’s heat and UV radiation away from your home, keeping your home cooler in the summer and reducing the need for air conditioning.
Double- or triple-pane glass
The days of single-pane windows are gone, and all modern units are either double- or triple-glazed. While triple-pane windows are up to 50 per cent more energy-efficient than double-pane units, they are usually 15 to 20 per cent more expensive, but might not be required if the overall thermal performance of your house is good since it might take a long time to cover your ROI. That is why make sure to properly analyze your energy bills and consult with the experts before making your final pick.
Correct window frame material
The material of your window frame also has a significant impact on its energy efficiency. Vinyl windows are the most popular units among Canadians; they’re strong, durable and require very little maintenance.
However, Canadians also prefer installing fibreglass windows as they are incredibly energy-efficient and almost maintenance-free. Moreover, these units can be painted or stained to match the aesthetics of any home.
Size and shape of the window
The size and shape of your windows also play a role in their energy efficiency. Windows that are larger or wider than average will let more heat escape. Additionally, square or rectangular windows tend to lose more heat than those with curved shapes.
Proper installation
In Canada, the climate and weather conditions vary greatly from region to region. As a result, energy-efficient windows in Canada must be able to withstand both extreme cold and hot weather conditions. This is why you need to consult with the experts to ensure that your new windows’ glazing, frame materials, size and placement are correct and customized to your needs.
Finally, it’s crucial to have your windows installed properly to maximize their energy efficiency. So make sure to deal with a reliable window company that installs only Energy Star-rated windows and follows your local building code to ensure the correct and hassle-free installation.
