by John MacGregor
HomeOwnerNet Columnist
Many people don't realize how much more comfortable they would be with new replacement windows in their home. Though we rarely focus our attention on windows themselves, they are what we look past to see the outdoors. Whether you live in a hot or cold climate, there's a new window technology for you.
Recent window innovations
According to a report sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, if you haven't
replaced windows in your home recently you could be missing out on reducing energy losses by 30-50 percent and heat gains by 40-70 percent. Not only can new windows pay for themselves with heating and cooling savings, they can make your home more comfortable while giving your climate control system a rest.
What is low-E?
Low-E stands for low emissivity, and it's a type of coating that reduces heat transfer through windows. With low-E coatings, if it's hot outside you won't be as hot inside, and if it's cold outside your interior heat won't leak through the windows as much.
Other big news
Depending on your needs, you can choose double - or triple-paned spectrally-selective windows that transmit more light and less heat. They feature heat absorbing or reflecting tints, and gas-filled windows offer better insulation between panes than air.
Superwindows are also entering the marketplace. These are windows that can be net suppliers of heat energy in winter, and then switch to insulating from the heat in summer. In recognition of the gains new window technologies can provide, some utilities now offer rebates and incentives for window upgrades.
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About the Author
John MacGregor is a freelance writer and real estate investor with degrees from the University of California in Comparative Literature and Law. He has bought and sold several homes for profit.
