Energy Efficient Windows – How to Choose One?

Designing a home or office can be a taxing job. When purchasing new windows, it’s important to make sure that the window will last and will stand the test of time. Since the time the world awakened to the idea of reducing carbon footprint, there has been a noticeable upward trend in building eco-friendly homes and offices.

Energy Efficient Windows

Everyday appliances are becoming eco-friendly and this has marked an increase in sales of energy efficient windows too. But how do you choose the best energy efficient windows for your home? Let’s discuss this in detail and find out how you can buy the right window furnishings to suit your needs.

The U-factor

The u-value is the rate at which heat is lost from a building. The lower the u-value, the lesser the heat lost. Always look out for windows that have a low u-factor. This will help in insulating the building as well as prevent loss of heat in colder climates. On an average, a home loses 30% of its heat, hence energy efficient windows are the right choice.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

This is a parameter to judge how well a window can control radiations from the Sun. Low SHGC will lower the accumulation of heat in your house. This is especially good if you experience warm climates. It’s best to choose windows that offer both low u-value and SHGC if the climate is temperate. This will maximize your energy savings no matter what the season is.

Low Emittance-coating

You should buy energy efficient windows that come with two glass panes. Furthermore, the e-coating should be low. This helps in reducing the solar radiation and suppresses the heat flow, thereby by regulating the temperature within the building.

Whole Unit u-factor

Center of glass (COG) panes do not reflect the true capacity of energy efficient windows. A whole unit on the other hand will accurately show you the performance of eco-friendly windows.

Energy Star Labels

Look out for windows that carry the energy saving labels. You don’t want to pay a high price and end up with a product that is not authentic as it will not help you save your energy costs.

Frames

Choose frames that provide support and thermal resistance. The window corners should be reinforced and welded properly to stop heat from escaping. The screws and hardware used on the window frame should be fixed firmly.

Installation

Always get a professional to fit your energy efficient windows. If the windows are not installed correctly, you will not only lose energy from the building but also rake up huge bills. The professionals will know how to fit these windows and they follow manufacturer’s guidelines properly. This will maximize the benefits of energy efficient windows for you.

Energy has become a precious commodity with changing times. It is just as important as any other scarce resource on the planet. Go green and make your home and office an eco-friendly place. One step in that direction is to buy energy efficient windows today.

Call (613) 226-7611 today for your free in-home estimate or email us.