When you are shopping for replacement windows to install in your home, you need to consider a number of different factors, one of which is the window size. The most appropriate size of windows can be determined by the building orientation and amount of thermal mass in the interior building materials.
To minimize the heat gain in the summer season and maximize the heat gain in the winter months, place larger-sized windows to the north. A north-facing window is easily shaded with eaves and awnings when the sun is at a higher angle during the summer and will be facing the low midday sun during the winter, allowing light and heat to come into your rooms.
South-facing windows, on the other hand, receive no direct sunlight during the winter and collect sunlight only in the early morning and late afternoon during the summertime. To prevent heat from escaping during colder months and reduce heat gain in the summer, use small south-facing windows.
Similarly, to minimize hot temperatures in the sunshine season and prevent comfortable heat from leaking out in the winter, keep the east- and west-facing windows small and well-shaded.
Thermal mass refers to the ability of a material to absorb heat. Materials like concrete, bricks and tiles have high thermal mass because a great deal of heat energy is required to change their density levels while materials like timber have low thermal mass.
If your home is built with materials that have high thermal mass, north-facing windows with larger-sized areas of glass are the most suitable option. Homes with less thermal mass should incorporate designs that minimize vast areas of standard glass. As a general rule, the total glass area of your house using windows should be between 20% to 30% of the total floor area.
You can count on Roof Masters for high-quality exterior improvement solutions, including window replacement and gutters installation. Our certified team is committed to delivering superior workmanship and industry-leading products to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of our customers in and around Rockville, MD. Call us at (301) 230-7663, or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.