When home replacement windows are brought up in conversation, two main factors are usually mentioned: the price and energy efficiency. Though these are chief indicators of their performance, they’re not the only features to take into consideration when considering the prospect of new windows. Scroll below to read about other factors that determine a window’s quality.
Grade of Glass Beyond the frame, glass is a critical component to the functionality and performance of a window. The glass influences the U-factor, which is a measurement used to assess the amount of heat that a window loses; thus, the lower the U-factor, the better of an insulator it is. Wallside uses low-e coating to insulate either heating or cool air, depending on the current climate.
Type of Frame There is a lot to consider when deciding on the type of window frame to use for your windows. Between each type of frame there’s a large disparity in cost, frequency of upkeep, painting, and general aesthetic. Wallside produces vinyl windows due to their great prices, durable structure, protection against the weather, and various other compelling benefits.
Quality of Sealant Although the sealant technically isn’t an actual part of the window, it’s an indispensable step to insulating them. Properly sealing gaps prevents drafts, fog accumulation, mould, and harsh weather conditions. If you are unsure how to seal your windows, talk to an experienced member of Wallside’s team for advice.
Amount of Window Panes Double and triple pane glass windows are greater at conserving energy than one singular pane. The additional layers are used as extra protection so that less energy is expended and more is kept within the home. Additionally, argon gas is kept between panes to enhance thermal performance. These additional features lead to a smaller energy bill and greater control over your home’s climate.
Insulation Technology Beyond using multiple panes of glass and coating, windows can be imbued with additional types of energy-conserving technologies. For instance, warm-edge spacers are popular for their benefits of bolstering the insulation between panes of glass. They also reduce moisture collection while simultaneously keeping argon in. Wallside includes warm edge stainless steel spacers into each of its windows for maximum energy efficiency.
