Our windows use vacuum glass and gaps creating a highly insulating, most energy-efficient windows on the market and they are ideal for cold and hot climates.
Conventional double glazing typically comprises two glass panes separated by a gap of up to 20 mm, which is filled with dry air or an inert gas like argon or krypton. Vaccume glass is different in that it creates a vacuum by extracting the air between the panes. Despite being one quarter of the thickness and two thirds of the weight of conventional double glazing, it offers the same thermal performance.
Since a vacuum is much more effective in reducing heat losses through conduction and convection, the gap between the panes can be reduced to just 0.2 mm, resulting in an overall thickness of just over 6 mm. Radiation heat flow is limited through the use of a low-emissivity coating on one of the glass panes, similar to that found in modern conventional double glazing.
What other features makes Quietglass windows more energy efficient?
Quietglass has many unique design features make windows more energy efficient and improve the durability, aesthetics and functionality. We consider carefully on the glazing or glass features, the frame materials, gas fills and spacers, and the type of operation. All of these factors will influence the overall energy-related properties of windows.
Coatings and films
Low-Emissivity Coatings
Low-emissivity (low-e) coatings on glass control heat transfer within the insulated glazing. Windows manufactured with low-e coatings typically cost about 10% to 15% more than regular windows, but they reduce energy loss by as much as 30% to 50%.
A low-e coating is a microscopically thin, virtually invisible, metal or metallic oxide layer deposited directly on the surface of one or more of the panes of glass. The low-e coating lowers the U-factor of the window, and can manage the daylight transmittance as well as the solar heat gain through the glazing system. Different types of low-e coatings have been designed to allow for high solar gain, moderate solar gain, or low solar gain, and they can also be tuned to control the amount of visible daylight transmitted.
Although low-e coatings are usually applied during manufacturing, some are available for do-it-yourselfers. These films are inexpensive compared to total window replacements, last 10 to 15 years without peeling, save energy, reduce fabric fading, and increase comfort.
Spectrally Selective Coatings
In those climate where cooling loads dominate, you will want a glazing that provides daylight and view but transmits as little of the sun's non-visible infrared radiation as possible, Some low-E coatings are designed to be spectrally selective, filtering out 40% to 70% of the heat normally transmitted through insulated window glass or glazing while allowing the full amount of daylight.
Frames and Sash
Improving the thermal resistance of the frame can contribute to a window's overall energy efficiency, particularly its heat loss rate or U-factor. There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of frame materials, but aluminum frame become more popular because it is strong, light and almost maintenance free with longer life if compared to vinyl or fiberglass. The insulation can be improved by using thermal break inside the frame.
Aluminum frame can carry heavier weight than vinyl frame so that it is easier to arrange larger area of glass and more layers of glass. Aluminum frame with thermal break has both excellent insulation feature and soundproof feature. The thermal break can stop vibration transferring from outside to inside through the frame so as to further reduce the noise.
Gas Fills and Spacers
In order to minimize heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the window, the space between glazing layers, usually about 1/2", is filled with argon or krypton gas; b oth are inert, non-toxic, clear, and odorless.
Argon is most commonly used because it is inexpensive and performs well in the typical 1/2" space. Krypton can be used when the space in thinner than usual - usually about ¼ inch. It has better thermal performance than argon but is also more costly.
Spacers with associated sealants are used to keep the layers of glazing the correct distance apart. In addition, they provide accommodation for thermal expansion and pressure differences, while also preventing moisture and gas leaks.
A variety of spacers are available with different impacts on the window U-factor. Look for "warm edge" spacers which are designed to lower the window U-factor and reduce condensation at the edge of the window.
Window types
Another important consideration how the windows operate, which is also related to the window types. Air leakage rates will vary with the type and quality of the weatherstripping and seals, and will generally increase over time due to operational use.
Awning: Hinged at the top and open outward, generally have lower air leakage rates than sliding windows.
Hopper: Hinged at the bottom and open inward, generally have lower air leakage rates because the sash closes by pressing against the frame.
Single- and double-sliding: Both sashes slide horizontally in a double-sliding window, generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows.
Fixed. Fixed panes that don't open. When installed properly they're airtight but are not suitable in places where window ventilation is desired.
Single- and double-hung: Both sashes slide vertically in a double-hung window., generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows.
Casement: Hinged at the sides. Like awning windows, they generally have lower air leakage rates than sliding windows because the sash closes by pressing against the frame.
Energy Star rebates for windows replacement
Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, federal income tax credits for energy efficiency home improvements will be available through 2032. A broad selection of ENERGY STAR certified equipment is eligible for the tax credits.
Exterior windows or skylights that meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria are eligible for the tax credit rebate. The homeowner would be eligible for up to 30% of project cost or $600 in maximum credit for windows and skylights replacement. https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits/windows_skylights