subject: Valuable Tips In Selecting Windows [print this page] Providing homes with proper ventilation and lighting, windows are an essential feature for any building. A significant architectural and design element, windows also provide walls with breaks, allowing homes to have a comfier and not-so-uptight feel. But far from just providing architectural and living comforts, windows also have another use. Believe it or not, when installed properly, windows can help reduce a homes energy consumption.
Before you take that final step of shedding your cash for the purchase, it is crucial that you take into account the following reminders so you wont have to waste everybodys (but above all your own) time, energy, and money.
FRAME: A basic window component, frames hold the windows glass in place. Different window types use different frame materials for different reasons and not for aesthetic appeal alone. For example, a wooden frame is often used in homes because they are good insulators. On the other hand, aluminum frames only fair up when it comes to providing insulation, but are very strong and is therefore ideal for office use. There are also vinyl frames that are maintenance-free and effective insulators.
DOUBLE-PANED WINDOWS: Also known as gas sealed double-paned windows, this type is a very good insulator compared to the traditional single-paned windows. Although very effective, double-paned windows are significantly more costly than single-paned ones. Experts recommend the Krypton gas glass since this type seals the heat and sets a cooler atmosphere inside the house. It might be more expensive than the regular double-paned but it is worth every penny than buying a second air conditioner.
LOW-E COATING: To reduce amount of heat transfer inside your home, choose a window with a layer of low-E coating. This is a thin coating of metal which reflects an amount of light and some solar heat. Glass manufacturers produce this type of coating in three various levels-low, medium, and high solar gain.
WINDOWS TERMINOLOGY: It is important that you are aware of the terminologies in rating windows before doing any window shopping, so remember to research ahead. For example, Visible Transmission (VT) is the quantity of light that the glass could carry or transfer. The lower the VT, the less light will pass through the glass. Another term is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). This pertains to the amount of solar heat transmitted in the window. The higher the SHGC rate, the higher the heat will be transferred.
I hope these few tips can assist you in selecting the best windows for your residence. Remember that in choosing the right window, it should also suit your taste and the beauty of your home.
For the best in residential windows, try looking up Penguin Windows, a professional company that installs krypton-filled double pane windows using only certified installers.
