3 Ways Steel Windows and Doors Improve Energy Efficiency
3 Ways Steel Windows and Doors Improve Energy Efficiency
Steel has gained popularity in modern contemporary design in recent years. Interior designers and architects have increased their usage of steel windows and doors as part of their visions. Not only does steel offer narrow sightlines and a connection to the outdoors, but steel windows and doors also offer greater energy efficiency over other traditional materials such as wood.
What is Energy Efficiency?
Energy efficiency, as defined by Energy.gov, is using less energy to achieve the same result. Energy-efficient homes, businesses, and other buildings use less energy for heating and cooling and to power appliances and electronics.
Utilizing less energy helps preserve the Earth's natural resources by using less electricity created using fossil fuels. It also puts less stress and load on the electric grid. This helps prevent disruptions to power usage, such as blackouts and brownouts.
Not only does designing buildings with energy efficiency in mind help reduce the impacts of carbon emissions on the environment, but it also passes on savings to homeowners. Energy-efficient buildings cost less to heat, cool, and operate because they use less energy.
Why Energy Efficient Windows Are Important
According to Energy.gov, a home can lose about 30% of its heating and cooling energy through the windows. For example, sunlight hitting the windows can enter the home and warm the interior temperature. This makes your cooling system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Therefore, inefficient windows cause your heating and HVAC systems to work overtime to maintain the temperature inside the home. This can lead to costly utility bills and potentially costly repairs for your overworked heater and air conditioner.
In order to prevent costly utility bills from inefficient windows, you can use shades and blinds to shield sunlight from entering through the windows. But what if you don't want to sacrifice your beautiful view to the outside? This is where steel windows and doors are very helpful to improve energy efficiency.
3 Ways Steel Windows and Doors Are Energy Efficient
The thermally broken design of steel windows and doors creates a thermal break. For example, in cold weather, this thermal break creates a seal that prevents cold air from entering the home.
Additionally, the glass of steel windows is finished with a low-emissivity or Low-E coating. This coating helps retain the warm air temperature inside the home in cold weather.
Also, steel itself is an incredibly durable material. Other common window materials such as wood become misshapen due to wear and tear from weather. When windows are misshapen, the seal to the outside is broken, allowing cold or warm air to enter the home, depending on the season. Steel is resistant to corrosion and decay, therefore preventing this from happening altogether.
Because of their thermally broken design, the durability of steel, and the glass coating on steel windows, you can enjoy your view of the outside without compromising on energy efficiency.
Experts in Steel Windows and Doors
All the Details specializes in steel windows and doors for residential and commercial projects. With over 30 years of experience, we help you throughout the entire process from consult, to design, to installation. Check out our website for more information and to get a quote for your project.