Do Your Windows Have The Latest Energy-Savings Technology?

Do Your Windows Have The Latest Energy-Savings Technology?

There are quicker, less expensive fixes than upgrading your tech such as adding storm windows or panels over existing windows to provide an extra layer of insulation and air sealing, reducing heat transfer through the windows. 

Sealing air leaks around windows with caulk and weatherstripping can significantly reduce drafts and energy loss while adding insulating window coverings like cellular shades, blinds, or curtains provide an extra insulating layer.

You can also apply solar control or low-e window films to existing glass to reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. 

Low-E or low-emissivity glass has a thin, transparent coating that reduces the amount of infrared heat radiation that can pass through the glass.  

This coating helps reflect heat back into the home during winter, improving insulation and reflects heat from the sun away from the home during summer, reducing your cooling bills.  

Argon gas is an inert gas that is inserted between the panes of double or triple-pane windows. Argon has a higher density than air, which improves the window’s insulating properties by reducing heat transfer through the gas space between the panes.

Many energy-efficient windows from Provia combine both low-E coatings and argon gas fills to maximize their insulating capabilities. 

Made In The Shade

Exterior shading is another viable if more dramatic option. Installing awnings, overhangs, or exterior blinds reduce strain on your cooling system and can be very effective at blocking direct sunlight.  

But if you’ve tried everything and you’re still not getting the desired results, at some point it’s time to emerge from your state of denial and just replace your windows. 

If they are very old or in poor condition, replacing them with new energy-efficient models with double or triple-pane glass, low-e coatings, and insulating gas fills can provide significant energy savings. 

Welcome To The Jetson’s Life 

Consider automated window shades. Studies show automated insulating window shades can reduce energy consumption by around 25% because they control heat gain and loss through windows. But even if they didn’t, they are super impressive. 

The most cost-effective approach depends on your climate, window conditions, and budget but for a select few where only the best will do, some celestial intervention may be in order.  

Drawing Inspiration from Childhood Heroes

For the most discerning homeowners with larger budgets you can dial up your energy efficiency to unprecedented levels. With a name like Krypton, images of superman and the radioactive green rock that is his nemesis are easy to conjure up. 

Chilling With Science

But Krypton isn’t an action hero in a comic book series. It’s the insulating gas between the window panes that combines with low-emissivity (low-E) coated glass to reflect heat back into the home during winter and block solar heat gain in summer. 

It’s the secret weapon on top of the line windows that makes them more energy efficient but most homeowners will not require such an extreme solution and Argon with Low-E is highly effective too. 

Doubling Down On Energy Efficiency

Regardless of which technology you choose, the technicians at the factory inject foam insulation deep inside the frames, known as graphite polystyrene rigid foam insulation, for maximum efficiency.

Hundreds of clients have told us that Provia’s advanced welding techniques like its FineLine Technology creates a tighter seal and reduces air infiltration. 

Our design team offers multiple glass package options with varying levels of energy efficiency coatings and insulation to meet ENERGY STAR standards across different climate zones.

ProVia works closely with the ENERGY STAR program to engineer windows that provide superior energy savings and value. Their windows undergo rigorous third-party testing and certification to meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the EPA, an independent agency of the US Federal government responsible for protecting human health and the environment. 

Our preferred manufacturer has received 15 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Awards for its commitment to energy efficiency while saving our customers millions of dollars. 

Cornerstone Home Improvements is a local, family-owned business-three generations strong and a proud member of the Better Business Bureau and NARI. It has been serving the Kansas City area for over 40 years and has earned a reputation for being trustworthy, honest, and fair to its customers. To set up a free design consultation call (816) 737-0601 or email meshelle@chi-kc.com. Follow the company on Facebook + Instagram + Tiktok & LinkedIn.