Want Energy-Efficient Windows for Your San Diego Home? Look for Windows with a Good Spacer

Here’s another blog post for all of you out there who love to learn about the technical details of a product before you purchase it.

In this post, we’ll focus on window spacers in general, as well as on the spacers used in the Anlin replacement windows we sell to our San Diego customers.

Window spacers are one of the most overlooked aspects of windows, but are also one of the most important components when it comes to determining how energy efficient a window is (or isn’t). Most people who are shopping for energy-efficient replacement windows in San Diego will focus on the type of Low-E glass used in a window, but will fail to look at the type of spacer used. Both are important.

What is a Window Spacer?

A spacer is the seal that separates the panes of glass in a dual pane window, maintaining a uniform separation between the two panes. A good one will typically do four things:

• Slow down the transfer of heat through the window panes
• Keep the insulating gas in between the panes from escaping
• Provide moisture resistance to help prevent condensation from forming
• Absorb any expansion or contraction due to changes in temperature

Types of Window Spacers

When dual pane windows first came on the market, metal spacers (typically made of aluminum) were used. As you can imagine, a metal spacer would not do much to prevent the transfer of heat, since metal is a good conductor of heat. They also weren’t flexible and did not absorb much of the stress caused by thermal expansion or contraction.

Next, window manufacturers started using what they called Less Metal Spacers. As the name implies, these spacers were made with a smaller amount of metal and with the addition of a foam separator on top. These were the first types of spacers to also be called Warm Edge Spacers, as they helped keep the edges of the glass units from transferring large amounts of heat. The addition of foam also helped reduce condensation.

The most energy-efficient replacement windows on the market use No Metal Spacers. Made completely of foam, they are flexible, less prone to seal failure, and excellent insulators.

Window Spacers Used in Anlin Replacement Windows

Anlin, which manufactures some of the most energy-efficient replacement windows on the market, uses no metal, silicone foam spacers. They call their spacers Platinum Elite, and their exclusive design is part of what helps their windows lead the industry in energy efficiency.

Not only are the spacers made with no metal, but they also have insulating chambers that help slow the transfer of heat through the window. In addition, they have a mylar vapor barrier that keeps the insulating Argon gas between the panes from escaping, and a butyl sealant that resists moisture (helping to prevent condensation). Their unique design also helps with sound suppression, keeping your home quieter and more comfortable.

The Platinum Elite spacer outperforms almost every other foam spacer on the market, and it’s only available in Anlin windows.

If you’re interested in learning more about the energy-saving technology in the replacement windows we sell in San Diego, contact us today at BM Windows. One of our friendly, knowledgeable team members can answer all of your questions and help you choose the best products for your home.