Modern homeowners strive to reduce electricity consumption and minimize the negative impact on the environment in order to simultaneously cut costs and increase living comfort. Energy efficient window installation can help to cope with numerous challenges. It involves replacing old thin windows with new ones that have better thermal insulation properties. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of the solution and explore the most suitable options for your case.

Introduction: Why Window Efficiency Matters in Modern Homes

No matter how old your house is, it may have unreliable protection against cold and drafts. As a result, you will feel uncomfortable or face the appearance of excessive condensation, mold, or a decrease in temperature inside. In addition, your utility bills will constantly increase. To change the situation and enhance overall insulation, you can resort to energy efficient windows. They are more than just a decorative tool to make apartments look better. Instead, they are a solution for significantly reducing electricity or gas consumption and maintaining a comfortable atmosphere in the house. Very often, replacing only the windows prevents energy loss by more than 75%. This allows you to lower the chance of drafts and keep your home at an appropriate temperature all year round, regardless of what happens outside.

What Are Energy-Efficient Windows?

The definition of energy-saving windows follows from their name. In short, they are windows that have higher insulation values ​​compared to traditional ones. They provide significant resistance to air flow, reducing energy loss. By their design, they are usually double or triple glazing windows that have several glass panels. Thanks to a number of additional glass units, seals, and innovative metal coatings, they allow light to pass through but prevent heat from escaping from the house. That is, they are a reliable barrier between the interior space and the external conditions. They can have different options and features that make them available for use in different regions.

Key Types of Glazing

The first thing that distinguishes energy-efficient windows from ordinary ones is the type of glazing. The following are the most widespread alternatives to think about:

• Double glazing windows. They have two separate sheets of glass with a miniature gap between them. For even better heat retention, it can be flooded with an inert gas.
• Triple glazing windows. They have a similar design to the previous one. Their main difference is the presence of three panes of glass at once, which have spaces between them, most often filled with gas.
• Secondary glazing. It is not a separate type of window. This is an option designed to transform an existing window in order to make it similar in characteristics to a double or triple one.

In the case of installing a triple or double glazed glass window, you need to remove the existing structure, prepare the house for modifications, and install a new element. However, when resorting to secondary glazing, you do not need to remove the window. You can choose one of several options. You can stick a plastic film on the inside of the window, attach an additional glazing panel, or make a separate frame and glazing that will also be attached to the existing window. The first approach is the least complex one, but not durable or aesthetic. The next two options are more expensive and more effective. You can resort to them in cases where a complete replacement of windows is impossible for a number of reasons. To opt for the variant that best fits your needs, you should contact a proven contractor like CBS Renovation. It is an experienced company that specializes in various renovation solutions, including those related to solving energy efficiency problems.

How Energy-Efficient Windows Work

The high energy efficiency of modern windows compared to secondary glazing is achieved in several ways. They include the use of multiple insulating glass units (IGUs), low-E coatings, and inert gas fillings. Let’s discuss each of them in turn. Insulating glass units are the first step to improving thermal insulation. Their principle of operation is very simple. Previously, classic windows had a single glass panel that served as a way to attract natural light and prevent the penetration of cold. The glass itself is not enough to protect the house from energy loss, especially in conditions of extreme cold or humidity. At the same time, IGUs have several glass panels that are connected to each other and separated by a small space. In double glazing, the first panel prevents heat from escaping to the outside, while the second protects the interior from the weather outside. In triple glazing, there is a third panel. It acts as an extra line of protection, cutting down on energy loss by as much as 90%. In addition to using multiple glass layers, manufacturers resort to other innovative solutions. The application of low-e coatings is among them. They are microscopically thin layers of metal oxide that are applied to glass panels. They keep heat from leaking to the outside by reflecting it from inside.They are translucent, so they have no impact on visual appearance. In addition, they transmit natural light but reflect excess heat from the outside during periods of high summer temperatures. Another option is filling the gaps between the glasses with inert gases, in particular argon. It is denser than air and can improve insulation. As a result, warm air from the inside cannot escape, and cold air from the outside cannot enter the room.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows

The growing popularity of modern solutions is explained by the large number of strengths they have. Below are some of the main benefits of energy efficient windows that will help you significantly improve your experience and living conditions:

• Heat retention and lower energy bills. Replacing windows will help reduce heat loss. That is, you won’t have to use extra energy to keep the house warm. This will affect the overall level of consumption and the bills you will receive. You will pay less while the temperature in the house will still remain optimal.
• Sound insulation and comfort. The use of several glass panels is an obstacle to the ingress of not only cold air but also noise from the street. The denser and thicker your windows are, the fewer sounds you will hear from outside. This will improve the atmosphere in the house and increase your comfort.
• Improved property value and sustainability. Houses and apartments that have at least double pane windows are more expensive than those that still have old options. In the case of selling the building, the price for them will be higher, as will the demand. Moreover, reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere brings your contribution to an ecological future.

Another advantage of new windows is their durability. Unlike traditional glass panels, with correct and responsible service and maintenance, they can last for decades.

Energy-Efficient Window Frames

Window construction involves the use of multiple panes of glass and different frames. They can be made of multiple materials, have different lifespans, and features. Here are the most common energy efficient window frames used on the market:

• PVC constructions. They require minimal maintenance and are resistant to fading and corrosion. Their appearance is universal, so they are suitable for a majority of apartments. They provide good insulation and are the most popular option.
• Aluminum frames. They are waterproof and lasting, and they can have different color solutions. Thanks to thin elements, they let in more sunlight. However, to stop heat loss, they need extra sealing between the frame’s inner and outer sections.
• Wooden elements. They are environmentally friendly and visually attractive. At the same time, they are more vulnerable to damage, thus they require special upkeep. Their use makes sense when it comes to historical or ecological buildings.
• Composite structures. They combine the use of durable materials that optimize their durability and appearance. They are often the best choice for maximum heat retention and creating a finished appearance of the building.

The cost of frames also varies. Typically, PVC materials are cheaper, while composite options can be among the most expensive.

Double Glazing vs. Triple Glazing

Choosing between double and triple glazing can be confusing. Their designs are similar, but they differ in performance and price. Therefore, you may not be able to decide which option is better to decide on. To understand the fundamental difference, you need to pay attention to the heat transfer coefficient (U-value). It indicates the level the window is insulated. The lower the U-value, the higher the insulation inside your room. In general, double glazing or НR++ has an average U-value of 1.1-1.2 W/(m²K). On the other hand, triple glazing or НR+++ has 0.6-0.7 W/(m²K). This indicates that windows with three panels are more resistant to adverse weather conditions or external noise. Therefore, when choosing between the two options, consider the characteristics of the region where you live. Take into account humidity, average temperature, and population density. As for the price breakdown, triple glazed windows cost is typically 20-30% more than double-glazed ones. However, while the initial investment will be higher, you can save money in the long run.

Low-E Glass Windows and Their Role in Energy Saving

While each type of modern window has its own advantages, low-e options are superior to most. Essentially, they are the same double or triple-pane windows but with a thin metal coating on the inside of the glass. Low e glass windows can have passive or solar control coatings. The former type is best suited to cold regions, while the latter is suitable for hot climates. Either way, both of them provide maximum heat retention inside in the winter and minimal heat penetration from the outside in the summer. In most cases, they are the best balance of reliable insulation and prevention of UV rays.

Installation Process: How Energy-Efficient Window Installation Works

In order for windows to last a long time and provide reliable protection, you need to install them correctly. Since the process requires skills and effort, it is better to entrust it to a proven company and take into account the procedure’s main features. These are some guidelines that might help you navigate:

• Ensure reliable sealing. You should use high-quality seals and sealants to minimize the risk of the window being installed leaky. Otherwise, you may encounter drafts.
• Monitor the position of the frame. Your window should be installed strictly level and perpendicular to the wall. A tilting window can lead to its falling out, damage, and other unpleasant consequences.
• Check the ventilation. Since your new windows will provide maximum insulation, they can cause additional condensation to appear. To avoid increasing humidity in the house, you need to modify or renovate the ventilation chambers.

Energy saving windows cost more than traditional windows, so that improper installation can lead to additional expenses. Hiring a professional contractor is the key to balancing costs and maintaining quality.

Cost and Return on Investment

The average energy saving windows cost depends on many factors, including the type of construction, materials used, glazing area, etc. In the Netherlands, double glazing prices start at around 200€ for a standard-sized window. Triple glazing prices are higher and start at around 260€. Taking into account the cost of installation and preparatory work, expect to pay around 350€-500€ for a double window and 450€-650€ and higher for a triple one. Since your expenses can be significant, you should consider applying for a subsidy available to most homeowners in the Netherlands. It provides partial financial compensation for window replacement and other renovation work that contributes to improving the environmental situation and increasing the insulation of buildings. To qualify for a claim, you must engage professional insulation services for the installation of windows, choose standardized materials, and submit an application no later than two years after the renovation is completed.

Maintenance and Longevity of Glazed Windows

With proper care, double and triple pane windows can last for over 25-30 years. To keep your windows from leaking, follow these simple measures:

• Clean glass surfaces at least every 3-6 months. Use a mild detergent and water.
• Replace seals and other worn-out parts. Inspect them annually for any damage.
• Lubricate the moving parts of your windows to prevent breakage. Examine them at least twice per year, and take note of any issues that crop up.

If you notice condensation building up in the space between the glass panes or around your windows, or you feel drafts in your home, these are the first signs that your windows need to be replaced. While your windows may not last you a lifetime, their lifespan is largely up to you.

CBS Renovation: Professional Window Insulation and Installation

If you plan to cooperate with a trustworthy contractor to replace your old windows, CBS Renovation is ready to help. The company offers a variety of services, from identifying and putting into practice diverse energy-efficient solutions, including window installation. In addition to high professionalism and dedication to the task, the team guarantees the timely completion of work and the use of the best materials on the market. The company offers competitive double glazed windows prices so that you can achieve better insulation without major budget losses.

Conclusion: Upgrade Your Home with Smart Energy-Efficient Solutions

Choosing innovative solutions and installing energy-efficient windows can have more impactful results than you might expect. They help reduce your bills, improve comfort, and increase the value of your apartment. Don’t put off replacing your windows for later. Take advantage of better insulation now by trusting proven contractors like CBS Renovation.