Decorative Windows

One of the best ways to make an older home “greener” is to add modern energy efficient window replacements. But what are the types of windows that qualify as green windows? This article will explain the technology that goes into making today’s energy efficient windows, so that you know what to look for when improving your home.

5 Components of a Green Window

There are 5 features that you should look for when it comes to purchasing energy efficient replacement windows around the home. These are:

Multiple Panes – Older windows are generally made with a single glass pane, which is incredibly inefficient. Your new window should have a minimum of 2 glass panes, but 3 are even better. These spaces between the panes allow for insulating gas that keeps your home’s indoor temperature from being affected by the outside.

Low-E Glass – Low-E stands for low emissivity, and consists of a thin invisible film that is placed on the window pane. This coating reflects the UV and infrared light, which keeps heating from transferring out of your home in the winter, and into your home during the summer. An additional benefit to Low-E film is that it helps protect your furniture from fading due to exposure to the sun.

Quality Frame – The material that is used to wrap your window plays a key part in preserving your homes energy. Older metal window frames transfer heat too easily between the interior and exterior of the home. New windows should have some form of insulation and thermal break to prevent that heat transfer from occurring. Low maintenance vinyl and fiberglass window frames are very popular, as are composite frames that allow for a durable exterior, while having an attractive wood interior and sash.

Spacers – A warm edge spacer is located between the window panes to ensure that they maintain the right distance apart, while insulating the edge of the panes. This reduces the heat transfer between the different panes and the window frame.

Gas Fills – Many people do not realize that our natural air is a great insulator. Window manufacturers use air to insulate between the window panes, and the more advanced energy-efficient windows include gasses like argon and krypton. All of these gases are colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.