If you are investing in new windows and doors, you will likely get recommendations about choosing energy-efficient windows. However, energy-efficient windows tend to be more expensive than regular windows. Given this, you may be wondering whether you should go for energy-efficient windows or regular windows.
To help you choose the best windows and doors, we will highlight 5 main differences between energy-efficient windows and regular windows.
Structure
The first difference between energy-efficient windows and regular windows lies in their structure. Regular windows come with one glass pane that allows heat to go out and come into the home easily. On the other hand, energy-efficient windows feature two or more panes of glass. These panes reduce heat transfer; thus, regulating heat loss and heat gain in a property.
Notably, most new windows come with multiple panes. Hence, you cannot have any challenge with picking the best windows and doors for your home.
Gas fills
In addition to the structural difference, the number of panes of glasses in windows also affects gas fills. Old windows with a single pane of glass don’t have any gas. However, the space between double- or triple-paned windows is filled with krypton or argon gas. The gas serves as an insulator; thus, they prevent heat transfers.
It is worthwhile to realize that krypton and argon are transparent, odorless, and harmless gases. Therefore, you can use windows and doors with the gases in your home without any safety concerns.
Surface coating
Another difference between these two types of windows is the surface coating. Modern, energy-efficient windows boast of having a low-E coating, which offers extra means of regulating heat transfers. With the aid of surface coating, buildings will be kept cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter. Unluckily, regular windows don’t have a surface coating.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping refers to the use of a strip of material to block the joints in windows and doors. With the help of the material, wind, rain, cold air, snow, etc. will be prevented from coming into the house. The strip of material is usually made of rubber, metal, wood, or other related items.
It should be noted that most regular windows don’t have weather stripping. So, it is not surprising that moisture and rain can get into a room through such windows. However, energy-efficient windows have this feature; hence, they can lower air leakage and reduce the heating and cooling bills of your home.
Energy Star rating
The fifth difference between energy-efficient windows and regular windows is their rating. Due to their amazing features, energy-efficient windows have an Energy Star rating but regular windows don’t. This rating shows that energy-efficient windows are capable of reducing your energy consumption. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly because of their ability to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Now, you understand the major differences between energy-efficient windows and regular ones. You can now agree that the energy-efficient windows are worth the extra costs.