Pros and Cons of Argon Gas Fills in Windows

Energy-efficient picture windows are filled with a special gas, often argon, to enhance their insulation. Today, Renewal by Andersen® of Louisville/Lexington explains everything you need to know about argon gas fills.

Why Argon Gas?

Argon is an odorless, colorless non-toxic gas that's also very affordable, making it the perfect option for windows. If the seal in your window becomes damaged for some reason, you won't have to worry about argon leaking out as it's completely harmless.

Krypton is the main alternative to argon. It offers slightly better performance, but is much more expensive. For this reason, many homeowners prefer argon.

Energy Efficiency

Keep in mind that just because krypton has better thermal-blocking properties, it doesn’t necessarily mean that argon-filled windows are an inferior choice. To augment argon’s heat-blocking capabilities, reputable manufacturers use frame materials with excellent insulation properties and add special coatings to the glass panels.

At Renewal by Andersen, our window frames are made from Fibrex®, an exclusive composite with excellent insulation capabilities. Our energy-efficient windows also feature Low-E4® SmartSun™ glass, which can block 95% of UV rays.

The Drawback

One disadvantage of argon is that it slowly leaks out of the window over time. When sunlight strikes an argon-filled window, the glass expands but argon doesn’t. The resulting expansions and contractions can damage the weather sealing, causing argon to leak out. This happens at a rate of less than 1% per year, however, meaning your window seal will still remain strong for many years.

Look at the Window’s Total Performance

Keep in mind that one feature can’t make a window entirely energy-efficient—when shopping for new windows, you need to take into account the window’s entire performance. That means you have to look at a window’s other energy-efficient features as well.

To ensure the best results, make sure to hire a qualified contractor. Otherwise, installation errors might damage the weather sealing, drastically reducing your new window’s energy-efficiency.

Renewal by Andersen of Louisville/Lexington offers a wide variety of premium energy-efficient windows and doors, including sliding windows. To schedule a free consultation with one of our window specialists, call us at (502) 785-9141 or (859) 559-4722 or leave us a message here.