Windows that allow too much natural light can increase energy bills and make rooms feel stuffy. Energy-efficient windows reduce heating and cooling costs and improve indoor comfort by keeping warm air in during winter and cool air out during summer.
Energy-efficient window features include insulating gas fills (like argon or krypton), warm edge spacers, and tinted glass to reflect heat and glare. They also provide superior sound insulation.
Double-pane windows
Double-pane windows are classic, durable choices for both homes and businesses. They are a popular option for replacement windows, offering both ventilation and a timeless aesthetic that complements a range of architectural styles.
Energy-efficient double-pane windows use advanced technologies to reduce heating and cooling costs and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. They use multiple layers of glass and a warm edge spacer to increase insulation. They also have Low-E coatings and argon gas to further increase efficiency.
Frames are available in fiberglass, vinyl, wood (and clad-wood), and aluminum. Fiberglass and vinyl frames are durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. They also resist corrosion and rot. Wood frames add a traditional look and are easy to paint or stain.
Glass options for energy-efficient windows include clear, tinted, or reflective. Clear glass provides an unobstructed view and lets in ample sunlight. Tinted and reflective glasses have a special metallic coating that helps them reflect heat and sunlight away from the interior, helping you cut your energy bills in Madison during the summer.
Triple-pane windows
In addition to energy savings, triple-pane windows can also help to reduce noise levels. The additional layer of glass and inert gasses like argon or krypton provide excellent insulation against outside noises. This makes them ideal for Madison homes with busy streets or office buildings nearby.
Triple pane windows also provide superior moisture resistance to normal single-pane windows. This helps to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew inside the frame and sills. Triple-pane windows with Low-E coatings can also help to block out UV rays, which can cause damage to furniture and other interior furnishings.
Triple-pane windows can be installed as fixed windows, casement windows, bay windows or bow windows. These are designed to add architectural interest and extra space in a room, as well as offer improved views of the outdoors. Triple-pane windows with Low-E glass can be tinted or have a reflective coating that keeps homes cooler in the summer, which can cut air conditioning costs.
Low-E windows
Low-E windows feature a microscopic metallic coating that reflects radiant heat rather than letting it pass through the window. This keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing your energy usage. They also limit the transmission of UV rays, which can cause irreparable damage to furniture, carpet and curtains.
The ENERGY STAR label indicates that these windows meet strict energy efficiency requirements. The U-factor of the glass is lower than that of standard windows, and argon gas can be added between the panes to increase insulation and reduce condensation.
Double-pane windows with argon gas offer superior insulation, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer without relying on excessive heating or air conditioning systems. They can also help to limit outside noise, making them a great option for homes in noisy areas. In addition, the argon gas helps to keep your windows in good condition for longer. The Intercept warm-edge spacer is another innovative new technology that reduces condensation and glass-to-frame temperatures, extending the lifespan of your windows.
Bay windows or bow windows
Energy-efficient bay windows or bow windows expand your home’s interior space and add a sense of depth and dimension to rooms. They are also great for creating seating areas, plant ledges, and shelving. Their unique angled design allows natural light to flow into spaces while providing panoramic views of your home’s outdoor landscape.
These windows are designed to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They also help reduce outside noise and protect your furniture and carpets from sun fading. Energy-efficient window options include triple-pane windows, argon gas, and low-E coatings.
Vinyl bay windows are affordable and durable, while wood bay windows offer classic beauty and natural insulation. Aluminum bay windows are lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion. Steel bay windows are sturdy and have an industrial aesthetic. They are ideal for new constructions or replacements in existing homes. They also come with a heavy-duty cable-hanging system to ensure stability and longevity.