In warm-climate cities like Houston, windows play a key role in keeping homes comfortable and affordable to cool. Double pane windows (also called dual-pane) feature two glass panes separated by air and can reduce energy costs.
The argon gas between the window panes and low-e coating reduce temperature exchange to save homeowners money on energy costs. They also block UV rays from damaging carpets and furniture.
Energy Efficiency
Unlike traditional single pane windows, double pane or dual pane windows have two glass panes with an insulation gap between them. This allows them to trap heated and cooled air in your home to keep it more comfortable year-round. Some styles even feature argon gas fill between the glass for added energy efficiency.
This insulating barrier also helps prevent heat from escaping your home in the winter and cools your home in the summer. This results in lower energy bills for your Houston home and less dependence on fossil fuels for heating and cooling.
Many double-pane windows also have built-in UV protections to block harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage furniture, carpets and other interior design elements in your home. Additionally, they can reduce outside noises for a more peaceful living environment. This is particularly important in the warmer climate of Houston where outdoor noises such as traffic and lawnmowers can be disruptive. Choosing energy efficient replacement windows is one of the best investments you can make for your home.
Reduced Noise
Many homeowners consider energy efficiency and aesthetics when purchasing new windows. However, they also need to look at the other benefits double pane windows offer including reduced noise pollution and a more peaceful home environment.
Modern double pane windows feature two separate glass panes separated by a spacer that are able to keep out unwanted heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. This prevents drafts and reduces your monthly energy bills thereby helping you save money while contributing to a greener planet.
The space between the two glass panes is often filled with a clear and odorless gas such as argon for extra insulation. This is because argon is denser than air and therefore blocks outside noise.
Double pane windows also come with coatings that help to block harmful UV rays which helps protect your furniture, carpeting and fabrics from sun damage over time. The combination of these factors makes double pane windows a smart investment that can boost the resale value of your home.
Reduced UV Damage
Double pane windows offer superior insulating properties than single panes, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The insulating gases (usually argon gas) that are filled between the two glass panes as well as the low-e coating prevent heat from escaping, which reduces your energy bills and makes your home more comfortable year-round.
These windows also come with built-in UV protection that helps to minimize the fading of furniture, carpeting and other fabrics caused by the sun’s harmful rays. This feature not only creates a healthier indoor environment but can increase the resale value of your property as it will be more appealing to potential buyers.
Furthermore, double pane windows minimize condensation by reducing the humidity level in your home, which can contribute to mold and mildew. This can be especially beneficial in Houston’s climate as the lack of condensation can help prevent these issues that can negatively impact your quality of life at home.
Increased Home Value
While some homes can get away with bare-minimum level windows in certain climates, Houston’s intense heat and humidity demand higher durability and insulation levels. Double and triple pane windows are designed to meet those needs. Milgard double-pane vinyl windows can reduce energy usage by up to 18 percent during our long hot summers and by up to 24 percent in cold climates.
Additionally, they can help protect household furniture, curtains, and rugs from sun damage. The double-pane glass blocks harmful UV rays that cause color fading and fabric degradation.
Investing in new double pane windows can be expensive, but it will pay off during the resale of your home. If you’re already a homeowner, you can repair double-pane windows with residential glass repair in Houston that restores the seal to keep energy costs down and reduces noise. A damaged seal leaves your windows susceptible to heat gain and loss, causing high cooling and heating expenses.