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Home » Energy Efficient Bay Windows
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Energy Efficient Bay Windows
Replacing your old aluminum single pane windows with new energy efficient bay windows is certainly a good idea if you are comfortable with the price tag. Here are some of the most important energy efficient features of quality bay windows.
Double Pane
Most replacement windows made today come standard with double pane glass. These IGU or insulated glass units are key for an energy efficient window. The ability to limit the transfer of heat or cold from outside pane to inside or vice versa is the central concept in limiting heat loss or heat gain. It is the reason why very few manufacturers make single pane windows today (except for specific purposes such as storm windows that work with the existing windows).
Glazing
Glazing is certainly one of the more boring subjects to discuss when it comes to replacement bay windows, but one of the most important nonetheless. Glazing provides a thermal barrier that reduces the amount of heat loss through your windows in winter and also reduces the amount of heat entering the home in summer. This requires a double paned window with adequate spacing between the glass (triple pane glass is also an option, but probably unneccessary for most home.)
Gas Fills
Many manufacturers add an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes that helps the overall energy efficiency of the window. Basically, these fills reduce the ability of heat to transfer from the outside pane to the inside pane of glass. Again, this helps to reduce heat loss in winter and reduce heat gain in summer.
Spacers
Non metallic spacers are placed in between the panes of glass the reduce heat transfer from the outside pane to the inside. Years ago, the industry used an aluminum spacer that was not very effective due to the conductive nature of metal. Today, there are a number of spacer systems such as the Super Spacer and Intercept Spacer that will use proprietary materials that include silicon, rubber, vinyl and even steel.
Low-e Glass Coating
Low-e glass coating is a mostly clear coat of film that is added to the glass during manufacturing, it allows in light, but reflects the heat of UV rays. Thereare several options here, including low-e, low-e2, and even low-e3 glass - the higher the number, the more heat is kept out and the higher the cost of the glass. Many manufacturers have special names for their various glass packages that can be upgraded at a cost. As well, higher the number, the more tinting there will be - some consumers don't like excessive tinting so there is a balance to be struck here. Nonetheless, low-e glass is by far the most popular option for bay window units.