Are you looking to reduce energy costs by increasing efficiency in your home or workspace? Purchasing energy-efficient windows are one of the best ways to make that happen. Doing a window replacement will reap plenty of benefits.
Window Replacement: Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows have lots of benefits.
- Save on energy bills all year round
- Increase property value
- Smaller and less expensive HVAC system required for same comfort level
- No Condensation or ice on windows
- More natural light, less heat
- Reduced UV damage to floors, carpets, and furniture
- Reduced street noise
Standard Windows Vs. Energy Efficient Windows
Aside from the difference in the quality of materials used to produce both windows, energy-efficient windows have distinct and advanced features.
- Glass. Energy-efficient windows use multi-paned glass (usually 2 or 3 panes) and have either air or gas between the layers to provide increased insulation.
- Noise. Due to the multi-pane construction, energy-efficient windows reduce exterior noises.
- Materials. The window frames are built from low-maintenance framing materials that help reduce heat transfer.
- UV Coating. Energy-efficient windows have a unique coating that reflects UV light. It keeps your home comfortably cool in summer and traps the much-needed heat in winter.
How to Recognize an Energy Efficient Window
While getting your window replacement done, ensure that the window you’re about to buy is truly energy-efficient. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is the body that is responsible for rating and labeling energy-efficient windows. When you see an NFRC label on a product, you’ll also find a detailed breakdown of its energy performance.
The NFRC rating indicates the performance of a window judging by these criteria:
- AL – The Air Leakage (AL) value measures the rate at which air passes through the joints in the window. The lower the AL value, the more energy-efficient.
- U-Factor – The U-factor indicates the thermal transmission of the window. The lower the U-Factor number, the better a window insulates.
- VT – The Visible Transmittance (VT) value of a window indicates the fraction of the visible spectrum of light transmitted through the window. The higher the VT number, the more light transmitted.
- SHGC– The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) indicates the fraction of solar heat transmitted through the window; in other words, how well the window blocks heat. A low SHGC value means less heat and better shading ability.
A Few More Considerations
- Window Style. You can decide to buy an energy-efficient window replacement that fits the unique style of your home. Also, if you’re interested in exploring new styles, most window companies can help you select the perfect fit for your home.
- Compare Window Companies. Meeting with multiple companies will help you weigh the options of honesty and dependability. Read reviews of each company before selecting the company to do the work.
- Quality Matters. Replacement windows need to fit your openings perfectly to avoid the need for additional framing work. A quality company will be able to deliver the perfect-fitting windows.
Windows By Toll
For further inquiries on how to get your energy-efficient window replacement, you can schedule a free consultation with Windows By Toll. Call 203-580-9945 and schedule an appointment today.
