Why is argon used in windows

From a regular traditional double-hung to an awning replacement window , more and more styles and households are making the switch to these energy-efficient glazing options. IGUs are often double-paned to increase their thermal insulation. Some windows can even have three panes for a greater U-value. But what serves as its ultimate thermal protection comes from a microscopic layer of argon gas sandwiched between the glass. What is argon gas and how does it help make your windows better?

All thermal vinyl windows today are gas-filled for better energy efficiency. However, the question is, why argon? The answer is in the properties of this inert element. This means they can safely be placed in construction materials for years without having any noticeable effect.

Moreover, argon is also abundant and readily available, making it the best candidate to be used for window gas fills. The main advantage argon has over any other gas fills is its high U-value rating. This combined with the stellar performance of some types of windows can help homeowners maximize their energy savings. If the gas has all leaked out, fog or frost may be visible between the panes. Low-e coatings are frequently paired with argon gas windows to ensure maximum efficiency. There are many benefits of buying low-e and argon gas windows together.

For example:. Finally, low-e windows create a more comfortable environment indoors for you and your family. Your home will feel more comfortable and people living in it will be at a more comfortable temperature throughout the year. You won't need to worry about closing window blinds to block summer heat or adding weather stripping in winter to keep in the warm air.

With argon gas fills and proper insulation, your home will be naturally sealed against the elements for a more comfortable environment overall 10 , Virtual Appointments Now Available. What Is Argon Gas? How Is It Used in Windows? Window Buyer's Guide Open. Download Buyer's Guide. Toggle nested menu. Is it Time to Replace Your Windows? Replacing Builder Grade Windows. What are Double-Hung Windows?

What are Casement and Awning Windows? What are Bay and Bow Windows? What are Garden Windows? What are Picture Windows? What are Storm Windows? These viscous, slow-moving gases typically, argon and krypton allow for less convection than would ordinary air, minimizing convective currents within the window and reducing the transfer of heat across the window. Two small holes may also be observed along the spacer -- one where the gas entered the unit and the other for air to exit.

Argon and krypton are the gas fills used most often by window manufacturers to displace the air between the panels in windows. A mixture of krypton, argon and oxygen gases is sometimes used to reconcile performance and price, and occasionally xenon and nitrogen are used, as well.

However, these windows will usually perform adequately even after many years of gradual depressurization. If the breach is significant, however, the window will no longer be an effective thermal barrier and may require replacement. Condensation or fog inside the window unit indicates that the gas fill has escaped and been replaced with moisture-laden air. Homeowners should clean the window's exterior to be sure that the observed moisture is, in fact, within the window rather than on its surface.

The manufacturer or installer should be contacted if the window fails. Leaks can be detected only with special gas-detection equipment. But homeowners should rest assured that leaked argon or krypton poses no health hazards to a home's occupants. One rare yet shocking consequence of argon leakage is the sudden implosion of the window.

Due to molecular differences between argon and the principal components of air, nitrogen and oxygen, argon under pressure to escape a window unit may exit the seal faster than it can be replaced with air.