Many material options exist for windows, but the leading choice for residential and commercial spaces is glass. Glass is renowned for its energy efficiency, functionality, and aesthetic value. When choosing new or replacement glass windows, there are several elements you will choose. The frame material, the window installation method, and the purpose. The available frame materials for glass windows include fiberglass, wood, vinyl, and a few composite materials which provide a higher thermal resistance compared to metal.
The operating system and purpose you will choose among those offered by window installation services in a place like Sudbury, Omtario will affect your property’s energy efficiency. This is because some window operating options have a higher air leakage rate compared to others. The following tidbits will hopefully boost your understanding of the popular window operating types and raise your odds of making the right choice.
Awning Windows
Many window businesses offer this system. These are opened by a pivoting mechanism found on the top of your window sash and operated by a crank. The windows are typically paired with picture windows along the sides, top or bottom for ventilation. Awning windows are also sometimes placed at the top of doors in the same way as transom windows. They are, however, not the best choice in high traffic areas such as near walkways on ground floors since they open out and might obstruct traffic or cause accidents.
Casement Windows
Like awning windows, casement windows open outward and pivot from side hinges. Most casement windows have large glass panels and hence provide sufficient natural lighting without the obstruction of framing and muntin bars. They also offer higher ventilation levels compared to other windows and form an effective seal when closed, which helps improve your building’s energy efficacy. Casement windows are ideal for upper building floors which need optimal ventilation and natural lighting flow though they will not allow the installation of window air conditioners.
Single and Double-Hung Windows
These are the most common window operating types. Single-hung windows have a fixed upper and movable lower sash while the double-hung ones have two movable sashes. Double-hung windows take more space than the single-hung ones but allow optimal ventilation. They are easy to clean and allow the installation of a window air conditioner. Both single and double-hung windows have less open area compared to the casement windows and are highly prone to air leakage, though.
Picture Windows
These are typically used in places where an optimal airflow is not a primary concern since they do not open. As such, they suffice in places with landscape views and ample sunlight and high windows in double story foyers. Though picture windows are less disposed to air leakage compared to other window options, their large glass panes might gain or lose considerable heat compared to insulated walls even with a double-pane construction.
Apart from picking the best operating option from the window types mentioned above, there are other ways to boost the energy-efficiency of your windows. One of the best ways is choosing energy-efficient glazings such as insulated, low-emissivity, and spectrally selective coatings. The space between the glazing and glass is filled with krypton or argon gas to minimize heat transfer. Learn more about these options when you talk to a reputable glass window contractor.
