While sustainability remains a priority for many facility and maintenance managers, it is also becoming increasingly mandated by governments to go greener. In many cases, technology has made it easier to transition from traditional practices and products, using advancements that help companies get closer to their ESG goals. Today’s advancements offer several options to add sustainability and lower costs through your windows, from tints to smart systems, and more.
Tinted windows
Today’s tint prioritizes the reduction of energy consumption by reducing the amount of light and heat that enter the building. Studies show that an effective window film reduces energy consumption by up to 30 per cent, so adding a film tint to your windows can save you money and help lower your carbon footprint. Effective window tints also protect the interior of the building from 99 per cent of UV rays, sparing your flooring and furniture from prolonged exposure, and lengthening their lifespan. Covering your windows with a tinted film can also help take some of the pressure off your HVAC system, reduce energy consumption, and save on your heating and cooling costs.
Smart windows
Smart glass allows windows to switch from clear to frosted with the use of an electrical current. Containing thin levels of metal oxide, the tint levels change when electricity is applied, and the ions move within them.
This technology is energy efficient, helping to reduce heat and UV in the building. It can be monitored and controlled remotely and programmed to switch on a schedule. While this product can require a large investment, it is an upgrade to consider when the time comes for window replacement.
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Efficient windows
Window placement can have a dramatic effect on the efficiency of your building. Adding windows to the south-facing side of your building can help you harness passive solar energy to help heat your building in the winter. If you are replacing your windows, consider environmentally friendly frames like vinyl or aluminum, as both are 100 per cent recyclable.
Double-paned glass is another way to make your building more efficient, allowing 50 per cent less heat to flow through it in the winter. This is something to consider when it comes time to replace the windows in your building.
Your window choices can help increase your building’s efficiency, boost sustainability, and help you achieve your ESG goals.
