Can Impact Windows Make My Home More Energy Efficient?

Can impact windows make my home more energy efficient? Most homeowners in South Florida commonly ask this question. Well, the answer is YES! 

While one of the main reasons people install impact windows is to protect their homes from severe storms, protection from forceful winds and elements isn’t the only benefit that these types of windows offer.

Impact windows can also make your home a lot more energy-efficient, helping you to reduce your heating and cooling bills by quite a bit.

How Impact Windows Can Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home

Impact windows receive higher ratings for their dual-layered glass and reinforced window framing. They come built with both tempered and laminated glass that is hard to break. The double-layered glass prevents the cold air from getting through it during winter. 

Even during the coldest months, impact-resistant glass can trap more heat inside. This feature allows you to keep your thermostat lower on cold days, and other times you may avoid using it entirely!

On the other hand, impact windows can block out heat on the hot days of summer. Although you may need to run your AC, you’ll be able to leave it off for longer while still having the comfort you need in your house.

Impact windows have the highest energy performance ratings than their counterparts. They can minimize annual energy bills in all kinds of climates. While the initial cost of these windows may seem high to some, they are more than worth the price.

If you’re in the market for energy-efficient windows, check out our overview to learn how impact windows are rated. These ratings exist because homeowners have different needs and requirements. 

For instance, if you're interested in improving your home’s energy efficiency, a solar heat gain coefficient rating will help you identify how much solar radiation passes through impact windows and doors and into the house. A lower value shows that the windows can block solar energy from getting into the house.

How Much Money Can Energy Efficient Windows Help You Save?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through windows amount to 25%-30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. However, you can save approximately $125 - $465 a year by replacing single-pane windows with energy-star-rated products.

Leaky, drafty windows on your home are inefficient and dangerous during hurricane season. You can’t compare the performance of quality double pane impact windows to that of single-paned windows. 

Some of the leading causes of drafty windows are poor installation, deteriorating seals, single-pane construction, and worn frames. The best solution for these problems is upgrading to energy-efficient impact windows.

Finding the right energy-efficient windows depends on your needs and where you live. For example, some frame types, insulation options, and glazing may work better for some homes than others. Here are some of the things to consider when you’re looking to upgrade your windows:

• Energy Star® Rating: This rating shows that the windows meet strict energy efficiency standards
• National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) Rating: NFRC ratings help you compare energy-efficient windows and doors by providing multiple energy performance ratings. Measure how different products allow natural light into a room and how much air leakage occurs.
• High-performance Low-E: Low-emissivity glass helps to minimize the amount of UV rays allowed through the glass.
• Glass tints: They help to reduce the amount of heat getting into the room.
• Argon gas: Filling energy-efficient windows with argon gas helps to provide ultimate insulation.

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What Are the Benefits of Energy Efficient Impact Windows?

Energy-efficient windows are designed to provide better insulation than traditional windows, preventing air leaks from your home. These windows offer several benefits; lower heating and cooling costs are only one of their perks. They offer protection to your home, prevent storm damage, and increase the value of your home.

If you live in hurricane-prone areas like South Florida, you should consider installing impact-resistant windows. After the devastating effects of Hurricane Andrew, which happened in 1992 in South Florida, the Florida building codes require all new construction builds to have more energy-efficient impact glass in windows and doors. The regulations also require exterior doors for homes and public buildings to open outward for safety reasons.

Even if you’re not worried about storms, energy-efficient windows can benefit you in several ways. They include:

1) They Provide Superior Insulation

Energy-efficient windows help keep a conducive temperature in your home. They block cold weather during winter and the outdoor heat during summer, thus reducing energy bills.

2) Enjoy Reduced Maintenance

In impact windows, energy transfer reduces. Hence condensation build-up drops dramatically. This occurrence lowers the risk of molds and other issues. In addition, the UV-resistant coating protects against dirt buildup and water spots, saving hours of cleaning time.

3) Block Unwanted UV Rays and Noise

Energy-efficient windows have special coatings that protect against harsh ultraviolet rays. This feature preserves your furniture and paintings from fading by up to 75%. As discussed above, energy star windows provide high insulation, which improves their soundproofing ability.

4) Enjoy top-notch Protection from Storms and Burglars

Impact-resistant windows protect you against harsh tropical storms and hurricanes. They also prevent intruders from breaking into your home.

5) Increase Your Home's Value

While energy-efficient windows might be an investment upfront, the cost helps increase the value of your home. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, new impact windows will help to make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

Learn More About Energy Efficient Windows with Alco!

Now that we’ve answered the question ‘Can impact windows make my home more energy efficient?’ It's time to upgrade or replace your existing windows. 

Alco Windows and Doors is one of the leading installation companies in South Florida. We work with the top impact window manufacturers in South Florida to offer you the best energy-efficient impact glass products. 

Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the benefits of using energy-efficient impact windows for your home.