When you’re in the process of replacing your windows, there’s a lot to consider. And one of the things you will have to think about is whether to include a layer of argon gas in between the panes of your chosen window glass.
And while an argon gas filling is seen as a no-brainer by many, there are lots of things to consider before you jump in and buy your new windows. Below, we introduce five such considerations that will help you decide if argon gas windows are right for you.
What is Argon Gas?
Found naturally in the atmosphere, argon is an inert gas that is non-toxic and can be used as a filler in pressurized containers. It is odorless, colorless, and tasteless and is regarded for its insulating properties – which is the main reason why it is often inserted between two window panes. (Related: Twelve Different Types Of Window Glass For Your Home: A Glossary Of Glass Terminology)
Some property owners are happy to justify the increased costs of installing argon gas windows, as they’re recouped in savings on utility bill expenditure in the long run. But is it really necessary to install argon gas windows at your home? Here are some things you need to think about first.
Five Argon Gas Window Considerations
1. Slightly Increases the Insulating R-Value of Your Windows
When installing argon gas windows, the R-value – the amount of heat retained by your window – increases slightly. According to Consumer Reports, adding argon gas to your windows increases the R-value by around half a point, which is undoubtedly better than nothing.
Increasing the heat retained by your windows leads to a potential reduction in utility bills over time, as less heat can escape through the panes.
2. More Expensive to Install than Regular (Single Pane) Windows
Offering a guide to window price is tricky, as there are so many factors to consider. However, according to Home Advisor, the typical cost of replacing windows in the US is between $300 and $1,200 per window.
Single pane windows tend to start at around $100 and go up to $300, whereas double-paned windows begin at $200 and often exceed $500, particularly if you opt for argon gas installation in between the panes. When you’re factoring in all of the costs associated with the installation, don’t be surprised if your argon gas windows cost at least 20% more than standard single-pane windows.
3. Several Manufacturers of Argon Windows
When it comes to installing argon windows at your home, you want to ensure you’re working with one of the best companies in the country. Here are three of the highest-rated argon window installers in the US, with a guide to how much you can expect to pay:
4. Energy Star Certified Argon Windows Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Opting for the installation of double-pane windows with argon to replace single-pane windows is super beneficial for your home. They can contribute to lower energy costs, prevent drafts, reduce condensation, and lower noise pollution.
What’s more, Energy Star certified windows are much better for the environment and can save 1,006 to 6,205 pounds of CO2 production for the standard American home. Reducing your carbon footprint is so important in this day and age, as we’re all looking to achieve ambitious targets that will slow the impacts of human-induced climate change.
5. Combine Argon Gas with a Low-E Coating for the Best Results
There’s no doubt that argon gas can improve the performance of your windows and plug some of the thermal holes in your home. However, to be a genuinely energy-efficient window, it’s a good idea to combine the use of argon gas with one of several Low-E coatings for enhanced performance.
Low-E glass (low emissivity) consists of a thin microscopic coating on the surface of your glass that acts as a filter and improves the efficiency and performance of your windows. The two main types of Low-E coatings are:
Verdict - Are Argon Gas Windows Worth It?
Opting for an argon gas filling in your windows is a smart move, as it is likely to increase the insulating quality of your windows and could offer a potential long-term money-saving.
However, our advice is to combine an argon gas filling with a Low-E coating for enhanced performance, as this is perhaps the best way to save good money over time and reduce the carbon footprint of your home.