Replacing old windows with double pane windows can greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. These insulated glass units (IGUs) have two layers of glass separated by a space that’s filled with inert gas—typically nontoxic krypton or argon—to reduce heat transfer and enhance a comfortable indoor climate.
New double pane windows can improve your curb appeal and raise your home’s value, as well as save you money on heating and cooling bills throughout the changing seasons. To make sure your windows are a wise investment, select quality brands that offer both style and energy efficiency.
Energy Star
Energy Star windows are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency to meet specific standards for reducing heat transfer and saving on utility bills. They must also pass tests for strength, water leakage, rot resistance and more. These windows are a great choice for Tuscaloosa AL homes with older single pane or low-efficiency insulated glass units.
The window installation style you choose can significantly affect your home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal. Popular window installation styles include casement, double-hung and bow windows. These window styles are a good fit for many Alabama climates, but it is important to choose the right frame material and energy-efficient technology.
Look for windows with a low U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). These types of windows will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Triple-pane windows with inert gas like argon can offer even greater energy savings. However, they are more expensive than double-pane windows.
AAMA
Window replacement is more than just a home improvement project; it’s an investment in your home. New double-pane windows keep your house cool and comfortable while saving you money on your energy bills. They also look great.
Double-pane windows are built using an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU), which consists of two or more panes of glass separated and held in place by an insulated spacer. This spacer is usually filled with a desiccant or krypton gas to prevent condensation and moisture between the panes.
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) sets standards for window performance. Its certification label provides transparency for consumers and ensures that the windows meet quality requirements. For example, a AAMA Gold Label window must pass air infiltration and structural resistance tests.
AAMA windows are available in several styles. You can choose from double hung, casement, bay, and bow windows. Bay and bow windows protrude from your house, providing an elegant architectural detail. You can add a lot of natural light to a room with this style, which is popular in Tuscaloosa homes.
Pella
Pella offers an extensive line of window styles and materials to fit all types of homes. Their windows are crafted to provide optimal comfort and energy efficiency. They can lower your utility bills, especially during the hot summers of Alabama, by reducing heat transfer and decreasing air conditioning workload. They also help reduce damaging UV rays from entering your home. The company’s windows are available through local showrooms, Lowe’s, and its website.
A bay window is a type of window that protrudes out from the wall of a house. They add a unique aesthetic to a room and create extra interior space for reading nooks or seating areas. This style of window is a good choice for homes with beautiful views or high ceilings. It can be installed with double-hung, casement or awning windows. Pella’s bay windows are available in a variety of styles and prices, making them a smart investment for any homeowner. They can save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year on energy bills.
Marvin
Choosing the right window installation style is a crucial part of any home improvement project. The style you choose will impact both the cost and energy efficiency of your home. Aluminum frames are lightweight and maintenance-free but offer poor insulation, while vinyl or composite frames are moderately priced and provide better energy efficiency. Wood frames are the most expensive but add a traditional look to your home.
Marvin offers several windows with different frame materials to suit your style and budget. Their Elite and Signature lines feature wood windows, while the Essential line has windows with a fiberglass exterior and a wooden interior. These windows are available in many colors and finishes, and can be customized to your exact specifications.
While they are a bit more expensive than other brands, the superior durability and energy efficiency of Marvin windows make them a worthwhile investment. They also feature Low-E coatings that reduce the amount of UV rays that enter your home, protecting furniture, flooring, and other interior items from damage.