Window Shopping: What to Look for in Your Home’s Next Windows

Upgrade your home's windows with energy-efficient options like double glazing and low-E coatings. Discover what to look for in your next window purchase with our guide to optimizing your home's comfort and reducing your energy bills.

Energy-efficient windows can reduce your heating and cooling costs by keeping your home's temperature stable. Look for windows that have a high rating to ensure you're getting the most efficient style available to you.

Double or triple-pane windows provide better insulation and can reduce noise than their single-paned counterparts. If you live in a noisy area, or near a busy street, you may wish to consider windows with triple glazing to help reduce sound transmission.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are designed to reflect heat back into your home during the winter months and reflect it away during the summer months. By blocking UV rays, Low-E coatings can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce fading of furniture and carpets.

Vinyl window frames are affordable, low maintenance, and energy-efficient. Fiberglass frames are strong, durable, and offer good insulation. Wooden frames provide a classic look and can be painted or stained to match your home's exterior, but they require more maintenance and are less energy-efficient.

Photo Via: rehmesteel.com

Proper installation will maximize the performance of your windows. This includes ensuring that the window is level, plumb, and square, and that it's properly sealed to prevent air and water leakage. Make sure you choose a reputable installer who is licensed, insured, and experienced.

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