Tips for Choosing Energy Efficient Windows
Whether you are building a new home or trying to upgrade your existing residence, windows play an important role in the energy efficiency of any house. Agoura, California can get rather hot and humid so the quality of your windows can affect your energy bills. When you are looking over the different types and styles of windows available to you, put energy efficiency at the top of your priority list. Here are some tips to help you choose energy efficient windows so you can keep your bills as low as possible.
Tip#1: Check Low-E Coatings
Low-E coatings will appear on the glass of the windows. The coatings reflect the heat inside your house and the UV rays from the sun outside of the house. You might be able to see them slightly based on the little tint they sometimes have. Other times you may not see them at all. In colder regions, there will be a coat on the inside and outside of the glass. In warmer areas, the coat is just on the outside of the glass. In order to keep hot air out and cool air in, the Low-E coatings are important.
Tip#2: Consider Casement and Awning Windows
Casement and awning windows are the most energy efficient so if you are looking for efficiency above all else, these styles are the way to go. These types of windows clamp tightly against their weather stripping when Agoura has a high wind or storm. Double-hung windows are not quite as tight in bad weather.
Tip#3: Get Multiple Panes
Make sure you get windows that have multiple panes of glass that are separated with argon or krypton gas fillings. Many have warm edge spacers as well and have very tightly constructed frames. These layers add insulation to the window, which can keep the air from leaking in or out of the home.
Tip#4: Look at Weather Stripping
Inspect the weather stripping and see if it looks like something you would find on a car door. Compressible gasket types of weather stripping have a quality latch that will keep out the cooler temperatures and heavy rains and they will keep the level air inside the home within the house.
Tip#5: Watch for Low U-Values
Look at the properties of the window and watch for low U-values or U-factors. Windows with these ratings have the best insulating properties and offer the highest levels of protection for a home.
If you have any questions about what type of energy efficient windows in Agoura Hills, CA are best for your home, contact Quality Windows & Doors. You can visit our showroom at 534 N. Milpas Street in Santa Barbara, CA or give us a call at 805-564-7600. Our friendly, knowledgeable professionals are available to help you with the design and efficiency solutions you need in your new windows. We can answer any questions you have, clarify any ratings, and show you as many windows as you want to see.
