Energy-Saving Features to Look for in Replacement Windows

Replacement Windows can go a long way in increasing your home’s energy efficiency – especially in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area because of the cold winters and warm summers that this region experiences. That’s because older home windows often have high rates of heat transfer, which is the natural process by which heat can escape your home in the winter and enter your home in the summer. Newer windows have been developed with features to prevent heat transfer from occurring, which means less stress on your HVAC system and a potential reduction of your monthly energy expenses. In order to help you and your home become more efficient, here are some prominent energy-saving features to look for when choosing new replacement windows for your home:

Triple-pane glass with gas fillings: ENERGY STAR research shows that triple-pane windows are better at insulating than their single- and double-pane counterparts because they consistently have a lower U-factor (which measures heat loss) when tested for heat transfer. Adding an insulating gas filling, such as krypton or argon, to your triple-pane replacement windows will also decrease their U-factor. This means even less heat will be transferred into and out of your home in Grand Rapids, MI, or another nearby area.

Foam-filled frames: In the past, many windows were made with hollow frames. By purchasing replacement windows with foam-filled frames, you’ll have extra insulation to fight against the heat transfer into and out of your home. According to a consumer guide released by the University of Oregon, “the best energy performance in window frames” has been achieved using “foam insulation in the frame cavities”.

Fusion-welded frames: Often considered a strongpoint for window durability, fusion-welded frames are also highly beneficial for those seeking energy efficiency as well. Because they’re seamlessly sealed together, replacement windows with fusion-welded frames are more resistant to the air leakage that would otherwise cause drafts.

Fortunately for homeowners in the Grand Rapids, MI, area, Montell Construction offers our very own X-Treme Window Series by Vista Windows, some of the most energy-efficient replacement windows on the market. Contact us today for more information.