Ever wonder why your energy bill goes up in the winter? It could be your non energy efficient windows.
While you’re preparing for the cold and winterizing your home, make sure inspecting your windows is on the checklist. If you notice even a slight draft or a drop in temperature near your windows, it may be time for you to upgrade to more energy efficient windows this winter.
Johnson Lumber has been a part of the Anne Arundel community for nearly 100 years, helping you build, remodel, and redesign. We are a trusted authority on window upgrades and replacements.
What to Look for in Energy Efficient Windows
Windowpane Construction
Double-pane windows are the way to go if you are not planning on staying in your house for the next few decades. They are more cost effective than triple-pane and are far superior in energy efficiency to single-pane.
If you are in your forever home and are looking to update your windows, consider springing for the triple-pane. They are more costly, but overtime you will recoup that money in savings on your energy bill. Since most of your home’s heat is lost through the glass of the window itself, addressing the issue at the source with triple-pane windows is the most effective way.
The key to double- and triple-pane windows’ effectiveness is the space in between the panes. This extra pocket of air helps keep the cold out and the warm air in. The air pocket may be filled with a gas such as argon to further lower the conductivity of the glass. This means there will be less of a temperature transfer between the inside and outside of your windows.
Window Frame Construction
The material your window frames are made out of will make a big difference when it comes to keeping your home warm.
Metal Frames
Metal window frames are great in that they are strong, lightweight, and almost maintenance free. The downside is that metal is a very poor insulator in a very good conductor. This means whatever heat they absorb from the interior of your home will be siphoned out through the metal frame
Wood Frames
Frames made from wood can add great character to your windows settings. Wood is also a poor conductor, so it will help in insulating your home. But, wood is more susceptible to weathering and degradation than other materials. This means they require regular maintenance and/or replacing.
Fiberglass Frames
Fiberglass frames are more durable than metal, more insulated than wood, and there are more easily made to fit custom shapes and sizes windows. It is the material of choice when producing energy efficient windows due to its ability to hold in the argon gas that helps with insulation.
Where Can You Buy Energy Efficient Windows?
The J.F. Johnson Lumber Company works closely with Marvin Windows and Doors, offering their Essentials line of products. Previously Integrity All Ultrex®, Marvin uses a specially patented fiberglass for this product line. It has more strength, durability, and reliability than traditional glass and even vinyl windows.
Marvin’s windows come standard double-pane with Low E coatings and argon insulated gas. Together, these make one of the most energy efficient combinations of window construction available.
Johnson Lumber Can Help
At Johnson Lumber, we have spent years building strong relationships with trusted manufacturers and installers. We trust Marvin and their Essentials line of products because they look great and perform better.
Contact us to see how we can help upgrade your window situation.
