More Efficient and Smarter Windows

Windows are great at many things, and as technology increases they become even more useful. They bring natural light into a home and frame outdoor scenery, but they’re also great at losing heat in the winter and inviting it in during the summer. New technology is being developed to minimize the energy bill while still providing a scenic view for homeowners.

• Glass:  Insulated units have been around for quite a while, but new varieties of coated glass add to that innovation. Low-emissivity, or low-e, and spectrally selective coatings both reflect heat from the outside. The later also protects fabrics and furniture from fading under the sun’s rays.  Combine these coatings with insulated windows with argon or krypton gas, and they will have an R value nearly equal to a solid wall.
• Improving Window Design:  The goal for Gentex Corporation, located in Zeeland, MI, is to create a window which will last for 20 years. Because insulated glass absorbs heat and can fall prey to water as well as oxygen penetration, it suffers more damage than regular glass over its life.  Sage Electrochromatics, a Faribault, MN based company, is also working towards a better window. They have established a new kind of glass which has passed all four levels of tests required by the Department of Energy. This innovative formula is composed of different inorganic layers bound to the glass. This tech changes window opacity according to a signal sent from an owner controlled or pre-programmed switch. Currently, they’re looking for a partner to offer this new technology to the public.
• Affordability:  Although the benefits of a highly effective insulated window are tremendous, high prices often turn potential consumers off. The difficult process of applying seals to windows is part of what drives the cost up, but the right partnership between companies can offer this technology to the general public at a better price.

There are coating options currently available, but they tend to be very costly, and they cannot be controlled in the way homeowners need it to be. When electrochromatic technology becomes widely available, more homes will be able to take full advantage of natural sunlight, while still keeping energy costs down.

The options available when looking for replacement windows are almost endless.  If you find the choices are overwhelming, you are sure to find just the right style and features for your home and your budget with a little help from a professional window contractor. 

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.