Comparing Vinyl vs Wood vs Aluminum Replacement Windows for Chicago Homeowners

How do vinyl replacement windows compare with wood and aluminum windows? What is the difference between vinyl, wood, and aluminum windows? When you start to shop for new replacement windows, you might be a little confused with the many options available to choose from. It’s impossible to say one is better than the other because each of them has their own pros and cons. In this post, you will get some great information to help you compare various features of vinyl, wood, and aluminum windows.
 

Vinyl Windows
 

Vinyl has a nice external appearance, making it very attractive. It comes in different styles and colors. Most vinyl windows are designed to mimic the appearance of wood. Many homeowners are advised to consider the long term benefits of the window they are thinking of buying. A vinyl replacement window will look as new in the next 15 years as it did the day it was purchased. Generally, vinyl won’t scratch or fade because the color is the same throughout. It also doesn’t require maintenance. It is typically less expensive.
 

Wood Windows
 

Wood is a natural insulator making it energy efficient and one of the best options for replacement windows. Wood is also considered the most attractive material in terms of its appearance. That’s why vinyl manufacturers are working hard to imitate the look of real wood. Maintenance is one major reason many homeowners avoid wood. While newly installed wood replacement windows can look beautiful, it requires a great deal of maintenance.
 

Aluminum Windows
 

Aluminum materials are known for their extraordinary strength. You can paint aluminum with any color of choice. This can help to match the color of your window frames with your home. However, outer coating or paint can chip off over time, and this will expose the metal underneath. Aluminum is a good noise insulator, but quite inefficient in terms of energy saving. As always, aluminum is a good conductor of heat and cold.
 

Single Pane Windows vs Double Pane Windows

Choosing the right type of replacement windows can be a challenging endeavor due to the wide variety of windows available on the market. Besides that, you may find it challenging to choose the most appropriate window for your Chicago home. If you cannot pick the right one, you may end up spending a fortune and getting nothing in return. There are three common types of windows: single pane, double/dual pane, and triple pane windows. An older home or building is likely to have single pane windows. Newer homes are usually set up with single pane replacement windows. So why do most homeowners prefer dual pane windows over their single pane counterparts?
 

Single Pane Windows
 

The reason is that single pane windows are heavy consumers of energy. They suck energy ceaselessly. They consist of a single glass sheet that is fitted on a window’s frame. Since glass is a good conductor of heat, heat transfer will happen when there is a difference between the inside and the outside temperature. In extremely cold areas, where heating of a home becomes a basic necessity – there can be a lot of heat loss through single-pane glass windows. This often affects the insulation of a home and can add to the high monthly utility bills.
 

In terms of cost, single-pane glasses are less expensive than double pane windows. Dual pane windows are more expensive than single-pane windows. If you’re planning to have all the windows in your home replaced with dual pane glass, then it can turn out to be a significant investment. However, if you look at the long-term benefits of installing dual pane windows, you can discover that they are your best option because they help to minimize your heating costs. Moreover, you will enjoy better home insulation. 
 

Double Pane Windows
 

Double pane windows save money, energy, and can contribute to the improvement of your home’s value. According to the department of energy, energy loss through inefficient windows accounts for almost 25% of the annual heating & cooling bills. Fortunately, there are solutions available that can help you as a Chicago area homeowner to dramatically reduce that significant heat loss through windows.
 

Double pane replacement windows offer improved insulation for your home. Not only do they prevent loss of heat, but they also insulate your house against annoying outside noise.
 

Another good thing about double pane windows is that they are available in a wide variety of colors, finishes, shapes, designs and styles. You can choose to buy aluminum, vinyl, or wood window frames depending on your preferences and budget. Now that you have an idea about the difference between single pane windows and double pane windows, make an informed choice so you can save your hard earned money.

Efficient Replacement Windows in Chicago

Windows are one of your home’s most appealing features. Windows provide ventilation, daylight, views of your property, and much more. Regrettably, they can also become the source of your increasing heating and cooling costs. If you have older windows installed in your home, your air conditioning system must work much harder to cool the house during the summer. Likewise, it must work harder to heat the home during the winter season.
 

If you suspect that your old single pane windows are to blame for increasing utility bills, consider replacing them with high efficiency windows. Double pane glass windows, for example, come with low-E and high performance glass. They have a special insulation material to protect your home against extreme heat and cold. Also, this insulation can reduce outdoor noise pollution.
 

Installing new replacement windows can undeniably make your house more attractive, comfortable, and welcoming. And as said before, you will enjoy reduced monthly utility bills. Energy efficient windows minimize a home’s heating costs by a huge percentage. Although replacing your old, inefficient windows with new ones is quite a huge investment, it’s still worth doing since the windows will practically pay for themselves over time. However, before thinking of installing new windows, it is important to make sure your home has better insulation. Ensure that all structural issues such as leaky roofing and damaged gutters are repaired. This is the only way you can maximize the benefits of your newly installed windows.
 

It’s worth bearing in mind that when installing new windows, it’s important to do it according to the recommendations given by the manufacturer. Proper installation will ensure you get the best out of your investment.

Best Windows for Your Chicago Home: Wood, Vinyl or Aluminum

There are three different types of window materials available – vinyl, wood, and aluminum. When you are ready to replace your old, drafty, inefficient windows, you may need to choose one of these options. Keep reading and discover the pros and cons of each material.
 

Benefits of Vinyl Windows
 

There are many reasons why vinyl is the most preferred replacement window option. Vinyl replacement windows are durable, aesthetically appealing, affordable and almost maintenance free. Vinyl is also known for its amazing insulating properties because it is a poor conductor of heat. For this reason, it stops heat from coming inside the house during the summer months. In the same way, it prevents cold air from coming inside during the winter months. However, not all vinyl windows are the same. You get what you pay for, goes the old saying.
 

People started using vinyl in the early 1970s, and became widespread not only because they are less expensive but also because they require very little or no maintenance. Moreover, the material is durable and can last for many years.
 

Vinyl Disadvantages
 

As with any manufactured product, vinyl has its own downsides. The material cannot be painted, making it less appealingly to the eye. This means you aren't able to paint them a special color to match with your window shutters, gutters, etc.
 

Aluminum Advantages
 

Aluminum windows are extremely light, yet very strong and durable. They are long lasting and require little maintenance, especially with anodized or factory-baked finishes. If you wish to install windows with unique shapes, you might want to consider aluminum since the metal can easily be manipulated into virtually any shape.
 

Aluminum windows are great for normal climates. In other words, they can be a perfect option in areas where heat or cold is not a major issue. Aluminum windows is mostly used in large commercial buildings as they are less expensive than wood and vinyl.
 

Disadvantages of Aluminum
 

The major problem with aluminum is the fact that it is a good conductor of heat. Therefore, aluminum replacement windows may not be a good option in extremely hot climates. Additionally, aluminum may eventually allow condensation to form between the panes.
 

Advantages of Wood Windows
 

Many homes, especially traditional older homes, are set up with wood windows. True wood has a feel and look that cannot compare to either aluminum and vinyl. Wood is aesthetically pleasing, wood is tough; wood is well insulated. In fact, some vinyl and aluminum window frames try to mimic wood's appearance. Wood windows are environmentally-friendly and can be painted with virtually any color.
 

Disadvantages of Wood Windows
 

One of the major reasons why most homeowners settle for vinyl and aluminum options is the cost. Wood windows are quite expensive. The need for regular maintenance is another good reason most people don’t consider wood. Wood – if left unmaintained – can warp, rot, and start to look ugly. Also, wood is attractive to termites.

Why You Should Opt for Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

What are energy efficient windows and why are they so popular? Let us explain! In brief, an energy efficient window is a window that has met or exceeded Energy Star ratings. In other words, an efficient window is an Energy Star rated replacement window and usually has an inert gas between its panes.
 

Energy efficient products, such as refrigerators, furnaces, and water heaters have become the new norm for individuals that are modernizing their homes. Every homeowner is trying everything possible to save money on electricity bills.
 

So, back to energy efficient windows, this means low thermal emissivity, improved exterior and interior home appearance, and lower monthly utility bills. This says how energy efficient windows are economical due to their ability to reflect, absorb and emit radiant energy. This is one of the main reasons why more and more homeowners are looking for these windows.
 

Your furniture, carpets, photographs and other items in your house need protection from direct sunlight. Harmful UV-rays from sunlight can cause fading to these items. The only effective way to stop these rays is to install a window that has the ability to prevent UV-Rays from getting inside, while at the same time increasing heating and cooling system efficiency. In fact, according to Energy Star, efficient windows can block the damaging rays by about 75%.
 

Condensation is another serious challenge many homeowners are dealing with. Energy efficient replacement windows are designed to address this problem. Typically, water condenses and at times even freezes on the windows during the chilly winter months, which may cause the development of mold.
 

Comfort in your home: If your home has older windows, heat loss, air leakage and drafts all contribute to your family's discomfort. For this reason, you will expect your heating and cooling systems to overcome this distress, which ends up meaning you have to deal with high energy costs. Nevertheless, Energy Star rated windows have greater insulation making the house feel cozier and warmer, or cooler than never before. Since you are likely to spend most of your time in the home, it goes without saying that you will want the place to be as inviting as possible. Moreover, these windows are able to block unwanted outside noise from entering the house. Many of them are built with sound insulation to ensure the home remains as quiet as possible. So, make your home comfortable and safe with energy efficient windows.
 

Another benefit of energy efficient windows is that it allows a clear view of the outdoors and also permits light to brighten your house. Additionally, when these windows are constructed with high quality materials, they add curb appeal and value to your property. 

Need Replacement Windows in Chicago? Think About Getting Energy Efficient Ones

There are many reasons to invest in new replacement windows for your home or commercial property. Perhaps you have been dealing with drafts or leaks that make your house an uncomfortable place to stay. Sometimes the fading of your furniture or carpet and high energy bills are caused by inefficient windows. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it’s the right time to look for energy efficient replacement windows—your best bet for affordable, safe, strong, and energy conscious windows.
 

According to experts, windows contribute about 10% to 25% to your monthly utility bill. If your home has old single-pane windows, it’s time to have them replaced with double or triple-pane windows that will add a new look and feel to your home and reduce your utility bills. Moreover, new windows can add to the safety of your property as older types can easily be broken into by robbers and burglars. With too many replacement windows available on the market, it’s vitally important to learn a few tips on choosing the best windows for your house. Here are some of them:
 

Material: Vinyl, wood, and aluminum are the most popular choices of materials. Vinyl is inexpensive, looks superb for a long period of time, can adapt to temperature and humidity changes, has great insulating properties and is virtually maintenance-free. Wood is quite poor when it comes to extreme climates and is relatively expensive. Despite that, many people still prefer the stunning appearance of wood windows over vinyl ones. Aluminum is incredibly durable and strong.
 

Design: The design of the replacement window you think of purchasing have to match up with the design of your house. There are plenty of colors available, but selecting the color that matches with the décor of your house is paramount.
 

Energy Star rating: This label is meant to tell you that the product has been tested and is energy efficient. Hence, before buying any window claiming to be energy efficient, make sure it is rated by Energy Star. This way you will save money on heating and cooling costs. Although new replacement windows are quite expensive, their long term benefits will, at the end of the day, offset your purchase.
 

National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC): Ensure that you understand what this means. In addition to Energy Star rating, NFRC is another label issued by an independent agency mandated with the task of comparing the energy performance of windows, skylights, and so forth. U-Factor is one of the essential ratings that measures the amount of heat gain and heat loss of a window.
 

Pricing: Wood is more expensive than vinyl. And it’s worth bearing in mind that once you’ve installed wood replacement windows, you will still need to spend extra money on maintenance. They often need to be painted and stained.
 

There are many factors to be considered when purchasing a replacement window. Replacing your older, inefficient windows with new ones makes lots of sense. You get a comfortable, secure, and beautiful home.
 

Compare Vinyl, Wood, and Aluminum Replacement Windows for Your Chicago Home

How does vinyl vs. wood vs. aluminum replacement windows compare? To begin with, let’s admit that comparing windows is a little tricky as different people have different preferences on which windows suits their needs. However, there are those who want to replace their old windows, but are not sure which replacement window to choose. In this post, we will try to compare the three popular window materials: aluminum, vinyl and wood. After that, you’ll be able to see which material is the best choice for your home.
 

Vinyl
 

Vinyl windows are arguably the most popular replacement windows available on the market. This is due to its low price, high performance, and availability. Vinyl windows beat their aluminum counterparts when it comes to energy efficiency. Vinyl is almost scratch-free, while aluminum is subject to scratches and dents. Maintenance is one of the major reasons many homeowners are selecting vinyl windows over wood and aluminum. While wood replacement windows would need to be stained or painted on a regular basis, vinyl windows are nearly maintenance free. They only need to be cleaned with water and soap once in a while. Vinyl windows do not require sealing or painting. The limited colors of vinyl and the fact that you cannot repaint it to your preferred color is, perhaps, the major disadvantage of these windows.
 

Wood
 

For centuries, wood has been a popular window option and the most used material for windows. Homeowners liked it due to the fact that it could be stained to maintain the wood appearance or painted in a different color to match the rest of the home. Wood is also a good insulator, easy to work with and fairly strong. Nevertheless, there are a few major issues with wood windows that have caused many homeowners and constructors to shift their attention to vinyl and aluminum. As you already know, wood requires a lot of maintenance such as painting, staining, sanding, etc. Also, wood frames are subject to decay, which can make them not to last for long. Again, vinyl replacement windows prove to be the best choice when it comes to durability and maintenance.
 

Aluminum
 

There are many reasons why aluminum windows are gaining in popularity day by day. First and foremost, aluminum is a very strong metal and also durable. When compared to vinyl replacement windows, aluminum is three to five times stronger. It is less expensive than its wood counterpart and is also inexpensive to install. Unlike vinyl windows, aluminum can be repainted into different attractive colors. Moreover, it can be shaped into any style of window of your choice. Unfortunately, there are a few significant downsides to aluminum replacement windows. Number one, aluminum is not known for being a great insulator. That's why aluminum windows prove to be unpopular choice when it comes to energy efficiency. It is not always recommended in areas that experience extreme climates. 

Again, unlike wood and vinyl, which won’t rust, dent or crack, aluminum is prone to denting and rusting. It should be noted that different people have different tastes and preferences. Thus, the ultimate decision is in your hands. Evaluate your budget, needs, and preference, and then you can decide whether to pick vinyl, wood, or aluminum replacement windows for your home.

High-Performance, Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

Gone are the days when homeowners used to choose windows based on their design and style. Today, more and more homeowners are becoming energy-conscious and want to reduce the costs of heating and cooling their homes. Therefore, selecting energy efficient windows is a critical step for them.
 

Replacing your old windows could result in significant energy savings of more than 25%. Your choice for replacement windows will likely be based on the cost, style and the efficiency of the window. Now, double and triple pane windows are available on the market. So whether you are living in an old home that needs a window upgrade or building a new home, choosing energy efficient replacement windows is of paramount importance.
 

Window energy efficiency is usually measured by what is known as the U-Factor. Basically, a U-factor is the opposite of R-Value. For instance, an R-Value of 4 equals a U-factor of 0.25. The lower the U-factor, the more efficient a window is.
 

Some window materials are good conductors of heat and cold. This results in a lot of energy getting lost through the window. Aluminum is one of these materials that lose the most conditioned air. And steel conducts about 30% of heat or cold. This means that the most efficient window material is wood and vinyl. In fact, vinyl is nearly maintenance-free.
 

The next factor that is vitally important is the glass panes in the windows. Heat transfer can be significantly reduced by choosing double or triple pane styles. Some of these double-paned and tripled-paned windows have an area filled with inert gas (krypton or argon) that helps to further minimize heat loss. Argon-filled replacement windows are twice as efficient, saving you a lot of money on heating and cooling bills.
 

Most modern windows are also coated with special materials to protect against ultraviolet rays (UV-Rays) and infrared rays (IR). With this, window treatments, carpeting, and furniture are protected from early fading.
 

If your heating and cooling costs are increasing day by day, it’s likely that your home has inefficient old windows. So, it is a good time to consider having them replaced. This will not only save you money down the road, but will also increase the value of your home. 
 

Buy Energy Efficient Windows

You will be surprised to find out that replacing your old windows with new efficient ones can bring a significant change in the general appearance of your home, in addition to saving you money on monthly utility bills. Of course, there are many options when it comes to replacement windows today, including wood, vinyl and aluminum windows. Installing high efficiency windows in your home will not only improve your property's curb appeal and save money, it also adds to the value of your home.
 

Typically, old windows often require regular repair and maintenance which may cost a lot. However, many do not know that replacement windows, such as vinyl, are in fact less expensive to have installed than spending money on all these annoying repairs time after time. Sometimes aged or rotten windows need to be replaced rather than simply being fixed. Not all problems associated with old windows can be reversed or repaired. Replacement is certainly the best option.
 

Reason for Getting Replacement Windows
 

1. Utility bills: Your monthly utility costs seem to be increasing without an obvious explanation. Of course, your existing windows may be to blame for this issue. This usually takes place when your old windows bring an unwanted amount of hot or cold air into your home. When you have leaky windows installed in your home, for example during the winter, you end up using more energy on heating while trying to keep your house warm. For this reason, replacing those windows is quite a wise choice. 
 

2. Drafty windows: If you have noticed your home becoming extremely hot on summer days or chilly cold during the winter, it may be a result of air leaks or poor sealing on your home windows. This could be a sure sign that you will need to have your current windows replaced.
 

3. Structural damage or cracks: Perhaps your window glass or frame has several cracks, making it difficult to see through. This can be the best time to consider replacing them with new and efficient windows, because simple repair work won’t make any significant difference.
 

4. Aged, washed-out or faded windows: If your home's windows look old, ugly, or extremely faded, it is time to consider replacing them. Such windows may attract pests and other vermin who will just wreck havoc in the house.
 

5. Frequent maintenance: In case you are spending a lot of money on regular maintenance and repair, doing away with such windows will save you money and from being stressed. The money you often spend on repair and maintenance can surpass the money you’ll save in the long run once you’ve got new windows installed.
 

6. Noise issues: Do your current windows allow unwanted external noise into your home? If so, then it is a perfect time to look for noise-resistant home windows.
 

7. Safety: Almost all older windows are single-pane glass windows which are typically very weak. Modern replacement windows come in double or triple-pane glass to offer ample security. Therefore, replacement windows prove effective when it comes to security. 
 

Investing in new, efficient home replacement windows may help you in many ways. New windows are easy to install and maintain. For example, vinyl replacement windows are almost maintenance-free. 

Replace Old Windows with Energy Efficient Windows

In cold climates, old windows can be a major cause of unwanted condensation issues, discomfort, and heat loss. In recent years, more sophisticated replacement windows have been developed in an effort to weed out these problems. It is now possible to minimize heat loss during the winter months and save a significant amount of money on monthly energy bills. Although replacing your windows is quite a costly investment, they are efficient and much more profitable than you can imagine.
 

If you have made up your mind to replace your rusty window frames or old wooden windows with a more efficient and modern ones, there is a broad range of window colors, styles, and designs to choose from. If aluminum is your favorite choice, then it is not a bad decision. However, aluminum windows are often designed for commercial buildings, not residential structures. And aluminum is also known to be very poor when it comes to thermal regulation. The unwanted heat from the outside of a house can easily enter in and cause discomfort.
 

Vinyl replacement windows are probably the most popular choice today. It is estimated that more than half of the homes in the U.S. have vinyl windows. These windows are resistant to chemicals and are fabricated using polyvinyl chloride, also known as PVC.
 

Vinyl replacement windows have proven efficient when it comes to saving you bucks. In other words, they are more energy efficient than aluminum and wood windows.
 

Away from energy saving, replacement windows will enhance comfort in your home. These windows are crafted and designed to act as insulation to rooms in any house during the chilly winter seasons, and also to minimize hot air in the summer months. Thus, life becomes more comfortable throughout the year.
 

Also, unlike old wood or single-pane glass windows, the modern replacement windows come in double-pane and triple-pane glass designs which can effectively help to improve energy efficiency. This also helps in preventing condensation and heat loss. These windows are also super strong for greater security. Typically, they are designed to resist weather elements such as floods, hurricanes, heavy rainfalls and other adverse weather conditions.
 

When shopping for new replacement windows, there are many varieties and options to choose from. They come in many styles, designs, colors and sizes. The double-pane windows are more popular than any other option. However, your choice will depend on your needs, budget and the existing design architecture of your home. 

Types of Replacement Windows—Partial vs. Full Replacement

If your windows are damaged, peeling or just plain old, replacing them can help you give your home a new look and feel. Replacement windows are available in different styles and materials including aluminum, wood, vinyl, and wood. There are actually two main types of replacement windows available: partial window replacement and full replacement.
 

Full Window Replacement
 

If you are performing extensive remodeling work, then you need to go for a full window replacement. After a full window is installed, new items fit in the new window as well, from the glass to the window frame. A full window replacement may also be required when you change the positioning or the size of the current window or when a window frame is completely rotten.
 

Full replacement windows such as Andersen emulate new construction installations. The whole sash and window frame are removed for a greater glass viewing area and superior operation. Whether it is a casement, specialty, awning or a double-hung window, you will find it easier and more economical to find the appropriate window for your replacement or remodeling project. Select from a wide range of full replacement window designs, styles, along with both standard and custom sizing options to suit your needs.
 

A full window replacement actually saves money and time. It may take you only five to ten minutes to install a pre-assembled replacement window. It doesn’t need cutting, measuring, filling nail holes or mitering while offering an excellent finish.
 

Partial Window Replacement
 

If the window to be replaced is a double-hung one and the window frame is in perfect condition, a partial window replacement could be the best choice. A partial window replacement, also known as sash replacement, is used when at least one section of the double-hung glass of a window is defective and needs to be substituted.
 

Sash replacement windows are quite complex in terms of design and may cost a little more to repair. However, they are easy to clean and maintain. Also, most of them have high energy efficiency ratings and add to the traditional curb appeal of a home.

 

Although it is not an easy job to decide on whether to have a partial or full window replacement, getting advice from the experts can benefit you a lot. Finding the right answer can take quite a lot of research and homework because you don’t want to make an uneducated decision.

Choosing Between Vinyl, Wood and Aluminum Replacement Windows

Are you thinking of replacing your old windows, but do not know whether to pick wood, aluminum or vinyl windows? Are you always bombarded with commercials on the TV or flyers in your daily newspaper or just plain confused as to what's best for your home?  After you know what kind of house you have and what your needs are, it is quite easy to pick the best replacement window that will be a good improvement for your home and cost effective as well.
 

What is the difference between wood, aluminum, and vinyl windows? Should I install wood or aluminum or vinyl windows? These are common questions that we always struggle with, so we will try to address ways in which vinyl, wood and aluminum windows differ along with their pros and cons.
 

Vinyl windows have become a popular choice over the past few years for homes. In fact, it is estimated that more than 60% of all the residential replacement windows purchased in the U.S. are made from vinyl. They have many advantages over wood and aluminum window frames, overall, when used as the primary or main window. Those who love design can find satisfaction in vinyl since they can be customized into different shapes and styles. Vinyl replacement windows are energy efficient and can help lower the monthly utility bills. Although vinyl window options have many benefits, they may not be attractive to everyone, and there are a number of downsides to vinyl windows. Number one, they are prone to fading. Number two, they cannot be repainted - the color you purchase is the color you remain with forever.
 

Aluminum windows are cheaper than vinyl and wood windows. Aluminum will often outperform wood and vinyl alternatives when it comes to commercial buildings. Most property owners love the in-build benefits of aluminum replacement windows. They resist cracking, shrinking, rust and swelling. Also, aluminum windows are really strong—about forty times stronger than wood and more than three times stronger than vinyl. The major downside to aluminum windows is the extremely high heat and cold conduction rate. This feature often makes aluminum replacement windows energy inefficient, though thermal treatments will help to offset this issue. 
 

Wood is the oldest type of window frame that has been used for centuries. Wood is an excellent energy efficient option when installing new replacement windows in your home. Building experts recommend wood window replacements because of their insulation, versatility, and aesthetics properties. Similar to vinyl, wood windows are long lasting provided that they are properly maintained.
 

However, there are quite many disadvantages of opting for wood windows. For instance, they are prone to rot and termite infestation. Again, you cannot compare wood windows to vinyl windows when it comes to maintenance. While vinyl windows are almost maintenance free, wood replacement windows require a great deal of maintenance to function properly and prolong their lifespan.

Reasons to Choose Argon Gas Replacement Windows

Argon gas is an odorless, tasteless and colorless gas that is extensively used in making fluorescent lights, light bulbs, photo tubes and now replacement windows. It is denser than normal air and has a very low level of chemical reactions. In other words, unlike oxygen, argon gas will not corrode or react with any type of window material. These windows include a vacuum-packed unit that is filled with argon gas between panes of glass to improve energy efficiency.
 

Argon is a non-toxic and inexpensive gas that is typically used to make replacement windows in order to stop frost from forming at the bottom of the windows. Argon windows also help to increase sound proofing features of a home, preventing unwanted outside noise from entering the house. Today, argon windows are gaining ground and are becoming a more popular choice for many people in the greater Chicago area.
 

There are double-pane glazed and triple-pane glazed argon filled replacement windows available. In order to place the gas between the panes of glass, the manufacturer sucks out air from between the glass panels, leaving a void, then pumping in the argon gas to fill the area. Since it is denser than normal air, it will redirect inside heat back into the home. Also, this can help to minimize condensation on the window as the inside part of the glass will remain warmer throughout the winter season. Additionally, argon gas can help reduce drafts and cold spots..
 

As said earlier, the noble gases are denser and heavier than air, so their particles do not move freely. Having inactive gas molecules between the panes of glass prevents warmer inner air from escaping in the winter seasons, saving money on heating costs. With the reduced heat loss, the R-value of the window is increased. A window’s R-value measures its ability to prevent heat from escaping. A double-pane glazed window without an argon gas has an R-value of about 1.8. A double-pane glazed window with an argon gas has an R-value of about 3.0, making it more energy efficient.
 

If you aren’t sure of whether or not to invest in argon filled replacement windows, consider your constantly rising energy costs for the last few months. Now try to imagine how much you’d save with argon replacement windows. Besides saving you money on utility bills, argon gas replacement windows protect your furniture against fading since these windows have the ability to block UV-rays. This, again, will save you more money on replacing furniture, carpeting, curtains, and other similar items.

The Many Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

The U.S. government is trying to push every homeowner and business to embrace new energy efficient windows. Remodeling old structures and replacing inefficient windows with Energy Star windows has many benefits. Replacing your old windows with modern ones will add to the value of your home and help you save a great deal of money on monthly utility bills.

What is Energy Star? This is a joint program of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A). The brand, ENERGY STAR is the only government-recognized symbol on energy efficient products. It was established to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and other poisonous substances caused by the use of inefficient products. Energy Star items can help save money on energy bills, protect the environment, and improve the overall performance and efficiency of your home.
 

The benefits of replacing your old windows with Energy Star rated windows are not just limited to your monthly energy costs. Opting for the Energy Star windows for your house is not only a lifestyle choice, but a wise financial decision. Besides saving you money on utility bills, these windows can help improve the overall look and feel inside your house since it prevents about 70 percent of sunlight from getting inside the house during the summer and it blocks a lot of heat from leaving the house during the winter. Not only does that help you save money on heating and cooling costs, but it also allows your loved ones to live comfortably and happily in your house day after day, regardless of the weather condition outside.
 

In the winter season, the morning frosts and the extreme cold air are a common thing to many individuals in Chicago and this can cause condensation problems. It is not easy to avoid window condensation during this time of the year. However, this condensation issue on windows can be significantly reduced with the installation of Energy Star replacement windows. These windows have been crafted using modern sophisticated technologies with Low-E glass coating, quality frames and warm edge spacers. By inhibiting the condensation process, you are certainly saving a substantial amount of money in repair and maintenance costs, as well.
 

If you are shopping for replacement windows and are not sure whether the window is Energy Star qualified, simply look for the original Energy Star rated tag or label. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and other third party independent organizations, thoroughly measures and tests all windows in need of the Energy Star rating label. This label can seem confusing and difficult to understand to the average person since there are many components and terminologies one needs to learn first, such as U-Factor (UV) and Visible Transmittance (VT).
 

Seeking a better understanding of these terminologies can help you make an informed decision when shopping for your new replacement windows. Even though an Energy Star rated window is a bit more expensive to purchase than the ordinary window, you will, in all probability, profit a lot in the long run as you will be able to save on the monthly utilities, and it will add to the value of your home, as well.  
 

Windows Single Pane vs. Double Pane vs. Triple Pane Dilemma

It can be an expensive investment to replace your home’s windows and for that reason, it should be researched thoroughly. Do you need single or double or single pane replacement windows? A particular climate calls for a specific type of window and because of this, there isn’t one clear-cut answer to the question. 
 

Triple and double panes are always better than single pane windows. This is because they have a layer of glass filled with an inert gas which acts as an insulation barrier to reduce the transfer of heat through the window. Double panes come with layers of glass. Triple pane has three sheets of glass in the middle. Your sense of logic may tell you that three is better than two, but that’s not always the case.
 

Both double and triple pane windows have certain advantages and disadvantages. Triple panes are pretty expensive, heavy, and tremendously energy efficient. On the other hand, double pane windows are fairly inexpensive, quite lightweight, and relatively efficient. Single pane styles have one layer of glass and are not as energy efficient.
 

If you live in a colder climate, triple pane is the best option for keeping the warmth inside your home and stopping outside air from trickling in. The double pane can also do this but at a lesser level. The layers of glass can also help your house stay cooler in the summer, just as it can make it warmer in the winter. For many homes built in colder climates, this is the main reason to consider triple pane replacement windows.
 

Also, double pane and triple pane windows can play a significant role in keeping out unwanted outside noise. That extra second or third sheet of glass filled with an argon gas can also help with noise reduction—it at least minimizes the amount of external sound that penetrates into the house.
 

Another great advantage of double and triple pane models is the fact that they have more security features than their single pane counterparts. These windows are resilient, making it much harder for robbers to break in. As a matter of fact, vandalism and break-ins are less likely to be threats when you have triple pane windows.
 

One of the main problems many homeowners are struggling with is the issue of condensation. Condensation can become a major problem which can lead to issues such as rotting and warping of the frame. However, triple and dual pane replacement windows have rectified this problem. Then again, the extra sheets protect a home against UV rays which can cause lots of damage to the house's interior, such as fading of the furniture and carpeting.
 

If you are shopping for a replacement window, it would make lots of sense to consider double or triple pane options. This is especially true if you are always struggling with your monthly utility bills, or coping with issues with condensation or outside noise.