Thermal Windows Buying Guide

What is a Thermal Window?

A thermal window is designed with a lower U-factor than most standard windows. The U-factor is the speed at which heat is lost, so the higher the U-factor value, the less energy-efficient the window. Since thermal windows are designed with the lowest U-ratings, they are extremely insulating and will effectively keep heat in or out of your home, depending on the season.

What are the Benefits of Thermal Windows?

Insulation

Thermal windows increase and preserve the heat that your home absorbs from sunlight in the colder months. In warmer months, they keep heat out more effectively. Regardless of the season, these energy efficient windows  help your home regulate its temperature more easily, thereby reducing your energy bills all year long.

Noise control

Thermal windows are more soundproof than their traditional counterparts because of the extra layers of double paned glass windows or triple paned glass windows.

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How Much Do Thermal Windows Cost?

The average cost of a thermal window such as a double pane window can cost anywhere from $325 to $850 per window depending on window manufacturer brand chosen, window frame type, and if you decide on double paned or triple pane windows. Thermal windows have better energy star ratings as well. However the total costs for window replacement will increase with added energy efficient features.

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How to Find Quality Thermal Windows

If you are familiar with two types of window ratings, you will be able to find high-quality thermal windows for your home.

U-Value

First is the U-value, which dictates how freely heat can move through the window from one side to the other. A high U-value means that heat can move freely and a low U-value means that heat is being kept in or out depending on the need. Replacing windows with newer thermal windows is a great upgrade for your home.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

The second is the SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient), which measures the amount of heat light to enter a home. A high SHGC allows most of the heat light into your home for warmth, while a low SHGC reflects it out in order to keep your home cool.

While you want a low U-value no matter what type of climate you live in, the SHGC level you want depends on where you live. In hotter climates, a low SHGC rating is best. In colder climates, a high SHGC rating allows more light to enter and effectively heat your home. A home window installer in your area will be able to help you find the best energy efficient window options.

Should Gas Fill Be Added?

Thermal windows are available with different filler gases. They can be filled with argon or krypton gas to give them a lower U-factor. Take a look at the U-factor of each window before the gas is added. Then look at the difference after the gas is added. You could see the U-factor drop by over 0.1, which is a significant jump in efficiency.

Special thermal coatings—known as low-e or low emissivity coatings—are designed to reflect heat energy either back into the home or away from the home. A clear sheet of glass only reflects about 16% of heat energy, but windows with a low-e coating can reflect up to 96% of heat energy. While most of the coatings are less effective than that in practice since they are not as dense, they can still make a significant difference compared to standard clear glass. In colder climates, heat penetrates the thermal windows, and in warmer climates, that heat is reflected.

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Beware of Highly Tinted Windows

When you are shopping for thermal windows, pay attention to the VT, or visible transmittance rating of the window. When special tinted layers and coatings are added to the window, they will distort your view of the outdoors and reduce the amount of natural light entering your home. The VT rating of the window signifies how much light can pass through and how bright your home will be. A very low rating means you will be blocking out light—which might be perfect for certain rooms, like a home theater.

When you are shopping for your thermal windows, keep an eye out for the ENERGY STAR label, since most of these windows are considered thermal windows. It is true that they are more expensive than their traditional counterparts, but considering that they are energy-efficient and will keep your home more comfortable year round, thermal windows make a wise long-term investment.

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