When it comes to choosing replacement windows in Huntington Beach, CA there are a lot of decisions to make if you want energy efficient products. The right window style and frame material are important. But when it comes to efficiency the most important decisions revolve around the window glazing. And you might be surprised how many glazing options you have on today’s replacement windows. Here are just a few of the things you need to consider before making a final decision on your new windows:
What is an Insulated Glazing Unit (IGU)?
Single pane windows are not efficient. That is why most modern windows feature multiple panes of glass that are set apart with spacers and sealed together as a single unit. Glazing units also have special fills and coatings to help improve efficiency, safety, and security. Here are just a few of the decisions you will have to make:
- Number of Panes
Homeowners can get windows with triple or even quadruple glazing options for better insulation and security. But for the most part, two panes of glass are sufficient. What matters is paring the right number of panes with the other glazing technologies for optimal energy performance.
- Gas Fills
It isn’t just air sealed in between the panes of glass. Air retains moisture. It also expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, which is bad for the seals. For this reason, manufacturers use an inert gas. The most common options are argon, krypton, and xenon. These gasses are colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. They also are less reactive and don’t expand and contract and reduce heat transfer. Argon is the most common and most affordable. Krypton is not as common and is more expensive, but it has better performance, especially in smaller spaces. And xenon offers the best performance but it is also the most expensive. Talking with a window professional will help you figure out which option works best for the area and the type of windows you choose.
- Safety Glass
There are two main options for shatterproof glass—laminated glass and tempered glass. Laminated glass has a special layer between glass panels that keeps it largely intact. Tempered glass undergoes a specific heating and cooling process to boost tensile strength so it is significantly more durable and shatters into pebble-like pieces. For safety glass on home windows, you might choose one option or a combination of both for better security.
Window Tints
Also similar to car windows, homeowners can choose special films in the glass to help block ultraviolet rays. Tints from the manufacturers come in a range of colors including blue, green, grey, or bronze. The can absorb up to 45% of solar radiation. Most homeowners choose window tints to block light on east or west facing windows.
Low-E Glass
This special glazing technology features ultra-thin metallic layers painted on certain window surfaces to reflect radiant heat. They do a great job of blocking unwanted heat without inhibiting natural light.
If you are curious about glazing options for replacement windows in Huntington Beach, CA contact Seaport Windows and Doors. We can help you match the right technologies to your needs. Contact us at (714) 220-3939 or visit 4201 Katella Ave., Los Alamitos, CA 90720.
