Most energy-efficient models are filled with argon gas to improve their insulation capabilities. Knowing their pros and cons can help you make a better purchase. Renewal by Andersen® of Louisville/Lexington, your go-to company in the state for picture windows, shares the information you need below.

Why Argon Gas? 

Argon is odorless, colorless, non-toxic, not to mention cheap, so you shouldn’t worry too much if the sealing on your window is damaged. The alternative would be krypton gas, and although krypton-filled windows tend to have better insulation capabilities, they’re also a lot more expensive than argon-filled windows. As such, argon-filled windows are the more cost-effective option. 

Energy Efficiency 

Keep in mind that just because krypton has better thermal-blocking capabilities doesn’t necessarily mean that argon-filled windows are an inferior choice. To augment argon’s heat-blocking capabilities, some manufacturers use frame materials with excellent insulation properties and add coatings to the glass panels. 

Here at Renewal by Andersen, we use Fibrex®, an exclusive composite with excellent insulation capabilities, in our frames. Our energy-efficient windows also have Low-E4® SmartSun™ glass, which can block 95% of UV rays and the heat that accompanies them. 

The Drawback

Of course, argon-filled windows are not without their disadvantages. One significant disadvantage is their short lifespan. When sunlight strikes an argon-filled window, the glass expands but argon doesn’t. The resulting expansions and contractions can damage the weather sealing, causing argon to leak out. 

Look at the Window’s Total Performance

Keep in mind that one feature can’t make a window entirely energy-efficient—when shopping for new windows, you need to take into account the window’s entire performance. That means you have to look at a window’s other energy-efficient features as well. 

One more thing: make sure to hire a qualified contractor. Otherwise, installation errors might damage the weather sealing, drastically reducing your new window’s energy-efficiency. 

Renewal by Andersen of Louisville/Lexington offers a wide variety of premium energy-efficient windows and doors, including sliding windows. To schedule a free consultation with one of our window specialists, call us at (502) 785-9141 or (859) 559-4722 or leave us a message here.