Selecting the best windows for your home of business can make a big difference. They can offer protection from crime, fire and improve the energy efficiency of a home. Some people will opt for commercial windows over residential windows for safety reasons. One drawback to commercial windows is some installers don’t like to work on residences.
Did You Know?
- A home is broken into every 13 seconds.
- Burglars enter through an open window or door nearly 30% of the time.
- In most homes, about 15-22% of heat can be lost through the windows.
- Windows with low e coatings cost more but can cut energy loss by 30-50%.
- Energy Star certified windows can cut energy costs by between $126 and $465 a year.
- In 2013, there was a house fire reported every 85 seconds.
- In 2013, the United States saw 1,240,000 fires.
Crime Prevention
Criminals enter many homes through the windows. Many people leave their windows open but single paned glass found in many residential windows is easy to break. Commercial windows are more durable, though they are not impenetrable. Installing double paned windows can deter crime by preventing access. Thieves may try to break through the window but when they cannot break the glass they can be deterred.
Protection from Fire
Fire rated windows offer the added security of being fire resistant. Fire rated class can be installed when the windows are or a coating can be applied later to make the windows more fire resistant.
Energy Efficiency
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), $35 billion is lost each year in energy costs though less efficient residential windows. Having windows with an Energy Star rating can greatly reduce energy costs and make a home more comfortable. These windows keep heat out during the summer and keep it in during the winter. Windows are considered important for what is called passive solar design meaning they can use energy from the sun to heat or cool a home. The strategy for your home will depend on where you live and the design of your home but this can make a big difference in what you pay for energy and how comfortable your home is.
Windows on the north, west and east sections of your home will have little impact on energy efficiency and really are there for aesthetic purposes and to provide adequate lighting. The windows on the south side of your home are the most crucial. Thee windows need to have a solar gain coefficient (SHGC) that is more than 0.6. This will maximize heat gain. The u-factor must be less than 0.35 to decrease any conductive heat transfer.
Thermally Broken Steel Windows
These are an great option for a number of reasons. Steel windows are durable — they will last longer and be less vulnerable to burglars. They are also very versatile. For those with thermally broken glass, there are even more benefits. The windows have a high fire rating and they provide extra insulation to lower energy costs.
