One of the big projects on our home to do list is to replace our old windows with new thermal ones. Thermal windows help insulate your home and greatly lower your heating and cooling costs. Here is a guide to what thermal windows are and how you can choose among the various types.
Thermal windows are also often called thermal replacement windows, because of the ease of using them to replace existing windows. Do you already have thermal windows? it is easy to check. Thermal windows are always double or triple paned. Regular windows consist of a single pane and may also include a separate storm window. The majority of thermal windows also eliminate the need for paint.
In general it is usually worthwhile to replace your windows. It will save you 20-30 percent on your heating and cooling costs, depending on the size of your home, how drafty it is now, etc. Windows and doors can be responsible for 40 percent of your heat and cooling loss. Replacing your windows will also add value to your home.
There are some terms that you may hear when you are investigating thermal windows. One is Low-E glass and the other is argon glass. These are two technologies that are sometimes used in windows to improve their thermal efficiency. Low-E glass contains a special coating that blocks some light (that is invisible to us). Argon gas is used to fill the between window panes. The argon gas is a great insulator and is safe to use.
Most thermal windows today are manufactured from wood, fiberglass or vinyl. Each material has it own pros and cons. Wood windows need to be painted or stained (some will come stained for an additional cost). Fiberglass can be painted or not, and vinyl is virtually maintenance free (with the exception of cleaning of course.
Would you like to learn more about thermal windows? Just leave me a comment.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.
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