Windows along with doors and siding make up the three focal points of your home exterior, but windows have a indoor role as well. By providing natural lighting and ventilation, windows can help you cut down on your power bill. And, with an energy-efficient double-pane window, your potential savings can reach $470 annually.
To maximize the potential savings, however, you need to pick a window that’s suited to your needs. After all, not all windows with an ENERGY STAR® certification are equal. To pick the right one, you need to pay close attention to the framing materials and glass. There are different kinds, with each one being more suited to a particular environment.
Roof Masters shares what these are and the benefits they can give you.
Framing Materials
Fiberglass, vinyl, aluminum and wood are popular materials for window frames. All of these have good insulation properties; picking one is just a matter of preference.
If you don’t have time to do maintenance work on your windows, any of the first three would make a good choice. And, if you prefer a more classic aesthetic for your windows, choose a wooden frame.
Glass
Energy-efficient windows glass are insulated using any of the following methods.
Insulated Glazing – Manufacturers leave a gap between two glass panes to create airspace that will regulate heat.
Low-Emissivity (low-E) Coatings – A coating made from metal or metallic oxide is applied to the glass.
Gas-filled Windows – Manufacturers fill the gaps between the glass layers with argon and krypton, two odorless and non-toxic gases.
U-Factor and SHGC
There are two things that you should remember while shopping for an energy-efficient window: the U-factor and the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) value. These are located on the ENERGY STAR label.
The U-factor measures the window’s insulation capabilities; the lower this value, the better a window can insulate. The SHGC, on the other hand, measures how much solar heat can pass through a window; the lower this value, the less heat that is allowed. Those in cold climates should get low-E windows with a low u-factor while those in warmer climates should pick low-E windows with low SHGC.
Keep in mind an energy-efficient window won’t be able to insulate that well if it isn’t installed properly. Make sure to hire a qualified and accredited contractor like Roof Masters to install your windows. We offer window and gutter installation services and were awarded the Angie’s List Super Service Award in 2010.
To request an estimate, call (888) 889-7551, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Rockville, MD.