Windows are one of the largest causes of energy loss in homes. Energy-efficient windows can improve the insulating properties of your home and reduce your energy costs. They will also save you money on maintenance.
The City of Sterling Heights is offering a series of go green grants for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements. The first level offers qualified residents up to $7,500 in funding for energy-efficient upgrades.
Double-paned glass
Whether you need replacement windows or are simply looking to add more natural light, double-paned windows are an excellent choice. They offer a number of benefits, including energy efficiency and noise reduction. In addition, they are a safer option for your home. The extra pane insulates against extreme temperatures and outside noise, making your home more comfortable.
Heat gain and loss through window glass contribute to up to 25% of a house’s heating and cooling costs. The insulating space and the Low-E coating in double-paned windows reduces energy consumption, saving you money on your utility bills.
There are many options available for energy-efficient windows in Sterling Heights. You should choose a company that has experience and offers references, a warranty and in-home estimates. If possible, look for a manufacturer that is Energy Star certified. This will help you save on your energy bills and increase the value of your home. Also, consider adding a skylight or roof window to your home.
Low-emissivity coatings
Upgrading the glass surfaces of your windows can significantly improve their insulating capabilities. This is achieved by lowering the emissivity of the window surface, or how much solar thermal energy it transmits. Standard clear float glass has an emissivity of about 0.9, which allows a lot of thermal energy to pass through it and into your home. This can be problematic if you live in a warmer climate, as it will increase your air conditioning costs during the summer months.
Low-emissivity coatings minimize the amount of solar heat that passes through your windows, while still letting in visible light. This helps you keep your home warm during the winter, and it prevents heat loss at night when the sun goes down. This type of glazing is the best choice for cooler climates, where you will want to maximize solar gains while minimizing thermal loss. However, some manufacturers have a wide range of formulas that allow their windows to work well in any region.
Argon gas fills
There are three major ratings for fenestration products: U-value, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and visible light transmittance (VLT). These ratings determine how energy efficient a window is. They are set by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and ENERGY STAR.
Air was once used as a fill between the glass panes of new windows, but manufacturers switched to argon because it has better insulation qualities. It also helps in slowing the transfer of heat, ensuring a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing condensation.
Universal Windows Direct offers energy-efficient windows that are Energy Star certified. Their UniShield windows feature two Low-E coatings, argon gas fill, and low-conductance spacers. They are available in double- and triple-pane glass with different glass options and frame colors. Prices aren’t displayed on their website, so it’s best to request a quote from the company. You may also be able to apply for the Go Green Grants program, which provides funding through three levels of incentives based on household income.
Energy-star certified
Being Energy-star certified is a mark of quality for windows and helps to lower household energy bills by about 12 percent. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and homes. ENERGY STAR certification is only awarded to buildings that meet strict energy performance standards set by the EPA.
JELD-WEN is one of the largest window and door manufacturers in the country, known for their affordability and durability. The company offers a wide variety of style flexibility and high-performance options, including Low-E coatings and argon gas fills. They are also a member of the ENERGY STAR Partner program, and their products have received positive reviews on review websites.
Pricing details are not displayed on their website because each installation is unique. However, they offer a range of pricing based on customer feedback. You can request a quote from their team for more information. They also offer a variety of insulation and air sealing services for homes. These include crawlspace insulation and rim joist insulation. These will make your home more comfortable in the winter and cool during the summer.