Benefits of Using Energy Efficient Windows

Your windows should keep you cozy and warm in the winter months, and cool and comfortable during the summer. If your windows are older and have a single pane of glass, there’s no insulation in them to keep the cold and heat where they should be. Replacing them with double-pane windows adds an invisible layer of insulation that will noticeably improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable.

So, it might be time to replace and upgrade those drafty windows. Now what? The material and type of glass you choose make all the difference.

Frame Material:

The choice of window frame material plays a significant role in determining the energy efficiency of your windows.

• Wood: Wood windows are less prone to heat and cold transfer than other materials but are more susceptible to wood rot. While some homeowners like wood for its durability and aesthetic appeal, wood windows require more work to maintain than other materials.
• Vinyl: Vinyl windows are typically cheaper than other options, but are made with a thick frame. That can be helpful for insulation but offers smaller views and a less than-ideal appearance.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows are a great option when considering energy-efficient materials for your windows. Fiberglass tends to be the most energy-efficient window frame option because it expands and contracts less than other materials like vinyl. The tight seal in the frame of your home and the fact that fiberglass windows are less prone to warping than vinyl windows will help with the energy efficiency in your home. They’re also virtually maintenance-free.

Infinity’s proprietary Ultrex^® fiberglass has strong insulation properties, making it a great option for energy efficiency. Ultrex is five times less conductive than aluminum and insulates similar to wood windows, keeping your home comfortable even in extreme hot or cold temperature swings.

Glass Type: Consider the number of glass panes included in your replacement windows. Upgrading from single-pane to dual-pane glass will improve the energy efficiency of your windows in your home.

Double-pane windows have two panes of glass with a sealed compartment between them containing a non-toxic insulating gas — typically argon gas. A double-pane window with a Low-E coating (an invisible glaze that helps protect against UV rays) is great for energy efficiency in your home. And if the window features insulating gas like argon between the panes as opposed to air, that can improve the insulation and your window's energy efficiency.

A triple-pane window — or triple-pane glass — is also an option. However, going from a double-pane to triple-pane can reach a point of diminishing returns because of the level of investment. More windowpanes aren't always better.

The spacer system, a component that separates the panes of glass, can also make a difference in terms of energy efficiency. Infinity uses a spacer system with the lowest seal failure rate in the industry. Our spacers are stainless steel with low conductivity, creating a dual seal where the glass and spacer meet called Warm Edge Technology. .

Glazing Options:

Windows glazed with a Low-E coating can provide greater energy efficiency for your home. The coating can also protect the inside of your home from the sun’s heat and UV rays in the summer, as well as prevent heat from escaping in the winter. These coatings are virtually invisible layers on the glass surface. Low-E glass coatings help reduce solar heat gain and give excellent protection against fading, which can occur from UV rays.

When considering Infinity windows, four options for coatings are available:

• Low-E1 coatings are primarily used in colder climates to allow heat in and warm a room while blocking heat loss.
• Low-E2 glazing is the standard option on Infinity windows. Low-E2 optimizes energy efficiency year-round by both reflecting heat back to its source yet still retaining heat in your home during the winter.
• Low-E3 is a glazing option with three layers of coating applied to the surface of a window. Low-E3 is preferable in warmer climates with intense sun exposure, offering exceptional performance in a non-tinted glass option.
• Lastly, Low-E3/ERS is an optional glazing that combines the Low-E outside coatings with a room-side surface coating, an extra metallic layer. This is the most energy-efficient package offered by Infinity and is great for year-round conditions, reflecting 85% of heat back inside your home, and can actually make your home feel two degrees warmer.

Professional installation is vital for achieving optimal energy efficiency because even the best windows won’t perform if they are not installed properly. Poor installation can lead to air leaks, reducing the effectiveness of energy-efficient windows. Ensure that the windows are installed correctly, and that the sealant used is high quality to prevent leaks. Infinity windows are installed by local experts who know the homes in your community. Our partners are selected based on their experience and commitment to excellence.

Investing in energy-efficient windows can lead to significant energy savings, improve the comfort of your home, and reduce your environmental footprint. To make the best decision for your home, consider the window material, glass type, glazing, and professional installation.

Consult with your local Infinity expert to determine the best energy-efficient windows suited to your specific needs and take the first step towards a more energy-efficient and comfortable home. Learn more about Infinity windows, attractive offers from our partners, and get a free, no-hassle consultation today!