What Are Insulated Glass Windows?

The best windows don’t just look amazing or enhance curb appeal. They also keep warm or cool air inside your home – depending on the season, of course! Stellar insulated glass windows act as barriers that prevent heat from transmitting outside through their glass surfaces, all without compromising how much natural light they bring indoors.

That's why many Blue Ridge homeowners opt for insulated glass windows when the time comes to upgrade. Insulated glass windows have two or more panes (layers) of glass with a layer of gas between them, plus glazing or coatings to minimize heat transfer. Let's take a deep dive into the types and benefits of insulated glass windows so you know which to choose for your home renovation.

Types of insulated glass windows

In a nutshell, an insulated glass window (sometimes called an insulated glass unit or “IGU”) is any glass window featuring two or more panes separated by one or more layers of gas. Both double-pane windows and triple-pane windows use special gases that prevent heat from transferring from one side of the barrier to the other. Depending on the window type, size, and shape, different gases might be used. The main types of insulated glass windows include:

• Air-filled insulated glass windows. These use regular air to benefit from higher energy efficiency and affordability.
• Argon gas-insulated glass windows. Argon is a very dense gas, so it’s the most popular option for window insulation. Many argon gas-insulated windows also feature Low-E or low-emissivity coatings on their glass surfaces for even better energy efficiency.
• Krypton gas-insulated glass windows. Krypton gas is denser than argon gas, so it’s the top choice for windows with smaller gaps between panes (such as triple-pane windows). However, krypton gas glass windows are usually a little more expensive than alternatives.
• Xenon gas-insulated glass windows. Xenon is the densest and most expensive gas insulator for windows, so you’ll normally find it used for commercial insulated glass windows instead of residential windows.

Whichever gas your insulated glass window is filled with, the primary purpose is the same: act as an additional layer to stop heat from flowing from one side to the other. In most cases, argon or krypton gas-insulated glass windows are the best options for Blue Ridge homeowners thanks to their cost-effectiveness and accessibility – many window retailers, including Window World, offer these kinds of windows.

The main benefits of insulated glass windows

Energy efficiency is all well and good. But what are the real perks of installing insulated glass windows throughout your home? By our count, there are five main benefits you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Lower utility bills

Higher energy efficiency isn’t just good for the environment. It’s also great for your wallet! The less energy you use, the less you need to dip into the Blue Ridge energy grid, which means you’ll be billed less each month for your home’s collective energy use.

In the long run, the lifetime savings you see from installing energy-efficient, insulated windows throughout your home could total hundreds or even thousands of dollars – especially if you replace the windows you open frequently, like double-hung windows.

2. Improved home comfort

Of course, there are the personal perks of insulated glass windows. Because they are so effective at preventing heat transfer between inside and outside, they also stabilize your home’s interior temperature no matter the season.

In the winter, insulated glass windows keep that warm air inside. Even rooms with large, insulated windows, like Window World’s picture windows, won’t feel chilly compared to other parts of the house. And in the summer, insulated glass windows keep your cool, air-conditioned air safely behind the glass where it belongs. For many Blue Ridge homeowners, you can’t really put a price on comfort!

3. Better noise insulation

The insulating properties of high-quality windows don’t just keep out heat or cold. Insulated glass windows also prevent sound from transmitting as easily.

Tired of hearing loud car engines scream by, or do you wish that you didn't have to hear your neighbor's lawnmower from across the street at the crack of dawn? Insulated glass windows can protect your ears and your peace of mind by reducing noise transmission across the board.

4. Higher property value

Not sure if you’ll stay in the same home forever? In that case, you’ll need to consider curb appeal sooner or later. The better your curb appeal, the higher a price you can charge prospective homebuyers – and you can then use that extra money to finance your next home purchase (or take a vacation!).

High-quality, energy-efficient windows lead to better curb appeal. When you give potential buyers a tour of your property, you can also point out the quality and effectiveness of those insulated windows. All in all, these windows are fantastic selling points for any home.

5. Excellent aesthetic variety

Don’t think that insulated glass windows limit your style options. In fact, the best window retailers offer insulated glass windows in a variety of different shapes and styles, so you can enhance or upgrade your home’s exterior appearance however you like!

Are insulated glass windows worth it?

Ultimately, insulated glass windows are highly worthwhile if you’re looking to enhance your Blue Ridge home’s curb appeal or need to replace old, drafty windows anyway. Instead of swapping out those old windows with basic replacements, paying a little extra for insulated windows should net you more money in energy bill savings in the long run, plus provide more comfort for you and your family all year round.

Insulated glass windows are even better upgrades for your Blue Ridge home if they’re installed by the experts. At Window World of Blue Ridge, our specialists can help you choose and install energy-efficient insulated glass windows – and it all starts when you contact us today or visit our showroom.