Windows for a Hot Climate

In the average home, windows take up about 15% of the wall space so finding the right window for the climate you live in is sure to create energy savings.  With the long hot summers that we have here in the Sacramento area, windows that allow beautiful sunlight to brighten a room while maintaining the cool comfort of our home are important. 

Replacing drafty, worn-out, inefficient windows, with modern energy-efficient windows can add to your comfort level and wallet.  Energy-efficient replacement windows are constructed using multiple components that will work together to help boost the insulating properties of a window.  Here are some things to consider when choosing windows for a hot climate.

Low-E Glass Coating

Modern glass coating technology has helped create more energy-efficient windows.  Low E Glass is a useful feature to consider when looking for replacement windows in Sacramento.  Low-E (low emissivity) coated glass has a thin solar control coating to improve thermal performance.  A very thin coating is applied to one side of the glass inside the window this allows visible light to get through but reflects radiant energy.  In addition to reducing energy costs, glass coatings can also filter damaging ultraviolet light (UV) to help protect interior furnishings and fixtures from fading.  Energy-efficient replacement windows manufactured with low emissivity coating can significantly increase your home’s thermal protection and help to lower your summer cooling bill.

Multiple Glass Panes

Air can escape through the outer edges of windows and when air escapes it can take a lot more energy to keep your house cool.  Dual-pane windows use a spacer that keeps a window’s dual glass panes the correct distance apart for optimal airflow between panes but not to the outdoors. This insulates much better than a single pane.

For added energy efficiency dual pane windows can be gas-filled.  Window gas is several times denser than air and is injected in-between panes of window glass to slow the transfer of hot or cold air.  Argon gas is often an option offered by top window manufacturers.  It enhances thermal performance without getting in the way of the view.  Krypton is another invisible gas that offers higher levels of thermal protection.

Airtight Window Frames

In addition to making sure your new windows are the correct size and are properly installed for an airtight fit, one of the most important things to consider when choosing replacement windows for a hot climate is frame material. Two of the more energy-efficient frame materials are vinyl and fiberglass. They do a particularly good job of reducing heat transfer and contributing to insulation value. Ultimately deciding which of these to use may be based on aesthetics and cost. In making your selection, be sure to look for vinyl or fiberglass frames that have been specifically engineered for performance. For instance, both can be designed with chambers within the frame that enhance strength, noise reduction, and insulation value.

When materials like vinyl or fiberglass are used in the frame of a window, it can elevate your rooms’ insulation level and allow for a consistent temperature throughout your home.  Fiberglass and vinyl window frames can be created with multiple air chambers for extra insulation pockets that help in reducing the transfer of heat and cold. Heat transfer reduction with energy efficient window frames can help homeowners stay cool and comfortable on those hot summer days.

If you’re interested in choosing the right windows for a hot climate call Dick’s Rancho Glass.  Our replacement window professionals can help you pick out the best windows for your home.  At Dick’s Rancho Glass we have many years of experience in window installation, and we are happy to serve homeowners throughout the Sacramento Area.  To keep your home beautiful and energy-efficient, we are proud to offer a large selection of replacement windows, including high-quality Milgard® windows.  To begin exploring your replacement window options, check out our gallery, give us a call, click Dick’s Rancho Glass to contact us, or visit one of our two glass showrooms in the Sacramento region:

Dick’s Rancho Glass Sacramento at 2900 ROUTIER ROAD

Or call us at (916)363-6554
Dick’s Rancho Glass Fair Oaks at 5349 SAN JUAN AVE.

Or call us at (916)863-2500

 ~ At Dick’s Rancho Glass our versatility and pride of craftsmanship are keys to our success. Our excellent reputation has been built on the foundations of quality, reliability, and maintaining a dedicated staff. ~