Living in Calgary means experiencing a wide range of weather conditions, from cold, snowy winters to warm summer days. Ensuring your home is well-insulated and energy-efficient is essential to staying comfortable year-round and reducing costs. One of the most impactful upgrades for homeowners is installing energy-efficient options. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the best windows in Calgary.
Why Energy-Efficient Windows Matter
Windows play a crucial role in your home’s energy performance. Older or poorly insulated windows can cause significant heat loss during the winter and allow unwanted heat gain during the summer. In Calgary’s fluctuating climate, this can lead to high bills as your heating and cooling systems work overtime.
Energy-efficient windows, however, help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing consumption while improving comfort. They also provide better sound insulation and minimize drafts, making them a practical and sustainable investment.
Key Features of Energy-Efficient Windows
When choosing energy-efficient windows for your Calgary home, look for these key features:
Double or Triple Glazing
Energy-efficient windows typically feature two or three panes of glass separated by an insulating gas (like argon or krypton). Triple-pane windows, in particular, offer superior thermal insulation, making them ideal for Calgary’s colder months.
Low-E Coatings
Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are thin, transparent layers applied to glass that reflect heat while allowing natural light to enter. In the winter, Low-E coatings keep heat inside, and in the summer, they reflect solar heat away, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment year-round.
Quality Window Frames
The material of your window frames affects efficiency. Consider these options
- Vinyl: Affordable, low-maintenance, and excellent for insulation.
- Wood: Natural insulator but requires more upkeep.
- Fiberglass: Durable, low-maintenance, and highly energy-efficient.
Gas-Filled Windows
Double or triple-glazed windows are often filled with inert gases like argon or krypton. These gases provide better insulation than air, reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency.
Energy Star Certification
Always look for windows with an Energy Star rating. This certification ensures the frames meet strict standards, helping you maximize your savings.
Choosing the Right Windows for Calgary’s Climate
In Calgary’s climate, it’s essential to choose windows with a high R-value (resistance to heat loss) and a low U-factor (rate of heat transfer). Triple-pane frames are often the best option for handling cold winters, as they provide excellent insulation. Additionally, Low-E coatings tailored for colder regions can significantly enhance savings.
Proper installation is just as important as the frame itself. Even the best energy-efficient windows won’t perform well if there are gaps or poor seals. Be sure to work with experienced professionals to ensure a precise, airtight installation.
The Long-Term Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
While energy-efficient windows may have a higher upfront cost, they offer significant long-term benefits:
- Lower Bills: Reduced heating and cooling costs provide ongoing savings.
- Improved Comfort: No more cold drafts or overheated spaces—just a consistent indoor temperature.
- Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient upgrades are appealing to buyers, adding value to your home.
- Environmental Impact: Lower energy use means a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to a greener future.
Get the Best Windows in Calgary
Choosing energy-efficient windows in Calgary is a smart investment that enhances comfort, reduces bills, and adds long-term value. Look for key features like triple glazing, Low-E coatings, and Energy Star certification to ensure you get the best performance for Calgary’s unique climate. Paired with professional installation, efficient windows will keep your home warm in winter, cool in summer, and comfortable all year long.
With over 27,000 windows installed, Permanent Window Solutions is Alberta’s source for the most durable, energy-efficient windows on the market. Permanent Window Solutions is proud to provide the highest quality of tilt and turn windows, offering a wide variety of easy-to-maintain styles. Whether you’re looking for just a bay window or need a large contract, call us for all your commercial and residential window needs. We exclusively supply European Rehau across Edmonton, Calgary and beyond, and also offer over 100 styles of commercial/CW grade, ENERGY STAR-certified doors. Permanent Window Solutions is proud to serve Alberta the best: contact us in Edmonton at (780)292-2848 or Calgary at (403)554-2610, or email info@permasol.ca