When most people think of double paned windows, they envision a nice quiet home in the Midwest with all the special features to weather the severe storms that come through each season. However, double paned window technology is widely applicable for a variety of homes and climates because of one universal characteristic: energy efficiency. If you are struggling to maintain the temperature in your home, your single pane windows may be to blame. It is much easier for air to escape through single panes than double panes, meaning your system works twice as hard to maintain your thermostat’s set temperature, resulting in higher utilities each month. Taking the time for small upgrades like this one keeps your bills at a manageable level and increases the value of your home in the long-term.
Insulation
Double paned windows are designed exactly as their name suggests: with two panes of glass spaced .5-.75” apart. Space between is filled with a gas such as argon, a non-toxic stable gaseous material that helps reduce heat. Additionally, the windows are coated with UV protection to prevent the sun’s rays from penetrating the window, an essential feature for Orange County residents who see the sun all year round. The window’s framing also has a large impact on the insulation capacities, with heavier materials being the most effective. From an aesthetic perspective, you should consult your contractor when choosing which materials will provide the best insulation while still fitting the aesthetic of your home.
Noise Reduction
An added bonus to this upgrade is its ability to reduce noise pollution, both internally and externally. Do you have a dog that’s quick to bark? Not a problem. What if your neighbors start working on a new construction project at 6 a.m. each morning? You won’t hear a peep. Sound waves have difficulty penetrating two panes, making a calm, quiet home much easier to achieve.
Carefree Cleaning
Last but certainly not least, double paned windows are easy to clean, giving homeowners one more invaluable reason to upgrade. If the double pane is inset into the frame as one piece, cleaning is a breeze. Inset frames also protect the internal components from the elements and can prolong the life of your windows.
Between saving money each month on heating and cooling costs, eliminating irritating noise pollution, and hassle-free cleaning, double pane windows are a no-brainer when it comes to valuable home upgrades. The cost of installing new windows varies by location and contractor, so shop around to find the best fit for your home. For questions regarding the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling system, call us at (949) 245-6320.
