If the existing windows on your home have been there since you first moved in, it might be time to consider upgrading them to newer; more energy-efficient styles Not only will you enhance the comfort of your home, but you’ll also decrease your heating and cooling bills significantly. Plus, the market value of your property should increase once the energy efficient windows have been installed.
We expect our windows to be reasonably priced, easy to operate and maintain, durable and attractive. Most importantly, we want windows that are energy-efficient and cost-effective over time. Energy efficiency also reduces greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Since there are so many functions that windows must perform, it seemed difficult for them to meet all of the above mentioned requirements equally well, until now.
Fortunately, engineering advancements have improved window technology immensely over the past decade by ushering in the era of high-performance windows. Most windows will last up to twenty years or more, so the decisions that consumers make now in selecting their windows will have an impact on the energy efficiency and comfort level in the home for years to come.
Shopping for Energy Efficient Windows
Although, it’s a bit confusing when shopping for energy efficient windows, it’s worth remembering that price is not always an indicator of quality or performance. The cost of high- performance, energy efficient windows can be ten to fifteen percent more expensive than the standard double-glazed units, but today’s high performance windows has become the industry standard. Therefore, many window manufacturers are switching over their lines to produce only energy efficient windows because of consumer and environmental demands, leaving little, if any, price differential.
The climate that you live in will directly affect your decision as to which type of windows to install and why energy-efficient windows should be the logical choice for your home.
Energy Efficient Windows & Rating Factors
When you buy newer styles of windows, they include several different ratings that can be used to help you make your purchasing decision. It is important to look at and compare these rating values if you want to choose the windows that will make the most difference in your home’s energy bills and comfort levels.
A Look at Rating Factors for Energy Efficient Windows
Energy efficient windows are rated for their insulating value, using an R-value and U-factor measurement. The R-value indicates how well the window in question insulates the home. R-values with higher numbers are aligned with higher insulating capacity. The U-factor also provides a look at the window’s ability to insulate the home, but in this case, the lower the number is, the better the capacity the window has for insulating.
Energy Efficient Windows & E-Coating Ratings
The E-coating that is listed on the window shows how well the window reduces the flow of heat emitting from the sun’s rays. An e-coating is a transparent layer or glazing that is designed to reduce the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light in order to minimize the transfer of heat.
Maintaining Energy Efficiency through Proper Installation
Even though you have chosen windows with highly efficient ratings, you could lose the energy benefits if they are installed improperly. It is important to hire a professional who has the right kind of experience to complete a proper window installation.
Summing Up
If you are going to upgrade your windows to energy-efficient ones, you have a lot of factors to consider-. Look at the R-value, U-factor, and E-coating ratings to help you decide which windows to choose. For the best results, hire a professional to install the windows. Contact us for more information.