Getting a replacement is not something homeowners consider right off the bat when they start encountering window problems. In fact, many will will wait until their windows are actually broken down before they start checking out replacement options. Windows have come a long way, however, and now feature a number of innovations that will make you want a replacement right now. These innovations include:
Improved Energy Efficiency
Thanks to technological advancements, windows now come with double-glazed glass, doing away with the pitfalls that single-glazed options used to subject homeowners to. Double- and single-glazed windows don’t look that much different but you can set them apart based on how energy-efficient they are. As double glazing features two layers of glass, it is better at preventing thermal transfer than its single-glazed counterpart, allowing indoor heat to stay in and keeping outdoor heat out to help stabilize temperature inside the home.
Aside from double-glazing, another window innovation that aids in improving energy efficiency is low-emissivity coating. Microscopically thin, it allows a window to block infrared light, reducing the level of heat that enters a window during the day. Heat is blocked, however, without impeding the level of natural light that a window lets in, allowing homeowners to take advantage of replacements in their daylighting efforts.
By working together, double-glazing construction and low-E coating prevent your HVAC system from working overtime and guzzling power needlessly. At the same time, low-E coating also reduces dependence on artificial light by allowing as much natural light in as possible into the home. By helping you make wiser use of energy in your home, double-glazing and low-E coating help you save on electricity costs as well.
Better Noise Protection
Live in a busy street? There’s no stopping activity outside your home but if you’re looking for more peace and quiet, getting a window replacement is a great solution. Aside from helping prevent heat transfer, a double-glazed window’s construction also allows it to deaden sound, creating a barrier that reduces noise that gets into your home so you can better relax indoors.
Boosted Aesthetic Appeal
Newer windows today now feature a wider range of options involving colors, finishes and hardware to let you find a replacement that will completely complement your home. Windows can still be made from a number of materials but newer options have also been developed, like composite, that not only mimics the appearance of other materials but also combines the benefits of wood and vinyl, resulting in window material that is not only beautiful and durable but low-maintenance as well.
Windows today truly have improved a lot, thanks to technological advancements. To ensure you make the most out of what window replacements can offer, however, make sure that you work with a reputable contractor in your area. This will guarantee that your replacements are installed right, which will allow them to perform as they should and let you enjoy the innovations that attracted you to them in the first place.
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Author Bio:
Dawn Dewey is the marketing director for Renewal by Andersen (New Mexico, San Diego, Tucson, and Boise) and Dreamstyle Remodeling. One of Professional Remodeler magazine’s 40 Under 40 for 2015, she’s responsible for spreading Renewal by Andersen of Tucson’s name far and wide. Catch Dawn’s updates through the company blog!
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