Low-E Windows
Low-E glass helps block both ultraviolet and infrared light, but lets in the visible light. Infrared light is associated with heat energy. By blocking it out, Low-E windows help keep the heat from the sun from entering your home.
Low-E double-glazed or triple-glazed windows with argon gas between the panes provide the best option for blocking heat.
Double Pane Windows
The hollow space is filled with argon gas to improve insulation. Double pane windows can reduce heat transfer by up to 24%, making them one of the best materials for hot weather.
Aluminum frames are often low quality and break over time. Wood frames are loads of maintenance, with risks for rotting. Instead, we know that high-quality vinyl frames are the best option for our southern climate, as well as other hot, humid climates.
Final Thoughts. Triple-pane windows aren't worth the extra cost for those in mild climates. But, the extra insulation can be worth it if you live in an area with extreme heat or cold.
Frame Material
Of all of these, vinyl tends to be the most energy efficient material as it has better natural insulating properties than fiberglass and metal and won't warp or deteriorate as wood windows often do over time.
Vinyl window frames are the best choice for hot climates, due to their durability and energy efficiency.
But if you're after natural room cooling without air conditioning in the summer, we say go for bow windows. The beauty of this window style is that they can be composed of either six casement style windows or double-hung windows, significantly boosting airflow inside the house.
Double- and even triple-pane windows are highly recommended for maximum solar heat resistance in Arizona homes.
Aerogel is more expensive, but definitely the best type of insulation. Fiberglass is cheap, but requires careful handling. Mineral wool is effective, but not fire resistant. Cellulose is fire resistant, eco-friendly, and effective, but hard to apply.
One of the fastest, simplest, and least expensive ways to answer the question of how to insulate windows to keep heat out is to add weatherstripping around your windows. Gaps around windows are one of the common areas for home air leaks. Weatherstripping definitely counts as a best way to insulate windows for summer.
Double-glazed windows are a popular choice for insulated glass. They're made from two panes of glass, spaced with metal or structural foam. Sometimes the space gets filled with a noble gas, such as argon or krypton. The gas reduces the conductivity of the windows.
First, check for these common problems: Dirty air filter—A dirty filter restricts airflow, not letting your home get enough cool air. Closed vents—Closed vents in rooms can cause them to be hotter than other rooms. Open windows—Your conditioned air can flow out of open windows, leaving uneven temperatures in your home.
The amount of air and light that awning windows let in is significantly greater than most window types. These windows offer superior ventilation and are considered to be the highest performing on the market, much like the Marvin® Windows we install.
Open some windows and feel if you can start to create a breeze. Open a lower window from the cooler side of your home and an upper window from the hotter side of your home.
Because double- and triple-pane windows are insulated, they are more effective at keeping cold, conditioned air in your home. Triple-pane windows are typically used in colder climates; for Texas homes, double-pane windows provide adequate insulation.
Aluminum. Aluminum window frames are the least energy-efficient, but they're also the most affordable.
If you're interested in unbreakable glass that truly lives up to its name, polycarbonate panels are the type you want. Polycarbonate panels are significantly more difficult to break than both standard glass windows and laminated glass mentioned above.
Look for the ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels . In colder climates, consider selecting gas-filled windows with low-e coatings to reduce heat loss. In warmer climates, select windows with coatings to reduce heat gain.
Con: They Are a Costly Investment
On average, you can expect to pay $550 to $850 for each window. Labor will add an additional $38 an hour. On the other hand, double-paned windows cost 10 to 15 percent less. Single-paned windows, of course, are the cheapest, but offer little efficiency.
Pella's windows are more expensive than some brands like Marvin, but they tend to be less expensive than those from other top brands, namely Andersen. The windows can be considered high-quality for a reasonable price, though, and are backed by a terrific warranty and nearly 100 years of experience and innovation.
These argon-filled windows are worth it and will return your investment in just a few years. Sure, they're more expensive; however, if you plan on living in your home for several years or you want to reduce the amount of energy that it takes to heat and cool your home – they are worth it!
If you are in a pinch, bubble wrap is an excellent insulator for summer windows. Simply spray a light mist of water on your windows, and lay bubble wrap against them to act as another layer of glass. The bubble wrap will stick as long as you need, and it works to keep the hot out and the cold in.