Understanding the Factors that Influence the Energy Efficiency of Windows

For most, if not all, homeowners, the energy efficiency of their homes is very important and can have many implications. Perhaps most importantly, a home with poor energy efficiency can result in an increase in energy bills, which can increase the overall home maintenance expenses. Windows are an important fixture in every house and can play an important role in influencing a home’s energy efficiency. In this post, we take a closer look at the factors that can influence your windows’ energy efficiency.

The Basics of Window Energy Efficiency

The energy efficiency of a home’s windows is primarily determined by their ability to regulate heat transfer between the inside and outside of the home. Windows that can keep the home insulated and reduce heat transfer are generally considered more energy efficient. This is because lower heat transfer means that the heat from within the house is not lost to the outside during colder months, reducing heating costs. Similarly, lower heat transfer also means that the heat from outside the house is less able to enter the house during hotter months, reducing cooling costs.

Factors Influencing Window Energy Efficiency

There are many different factors that can influence the energy efficiency of a window, including:

Window Frame Materials

The frame of a window constitutes a significant part of its composition, and the material that the frame is made from can thus have an impact on the window’s ability to regulate heat transfer. Certain materials, such as timber, that are poor conductors of heat will minimise heat transfer. In contrast, materials such as aluminium or steel might result in greater heat transfer due to their higher thermal conductivity.

Glass Types

Different types of glass can also provide different levels of insulation. Perhaps the best type of glass for insulation is double-glazed glass, which comprises a layer of inert gas trapped between two panes of glass and sealed shut with an airtight seal. This layer of gas acts as an insulative barrier between the two glass panes, further reducing the amount of heat that can be easily transferred between them.

Seals and Weatherstripping

The seals and weatherstripping that a window has can also influence how well it is able to regulate heat transfer. Windows with leaky seals or weatherstripping that is deteriorating often have gaps between their frames and the wall. These gaps can enable drafts to pass through them, allowing for the easy transfer of heat from the inside of a house to the outside and vice versa.

Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency with Valley Windows

Valley Windows is the number one manufacturer of custom windows in Melbourne and the surrounding areas. If you want to improve your home’s overall energy efficiency with some new windows, we have just the solution for you. Contact us today for more information and find out how we can help with your window needs.