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How to Choose the Best Energy-Efficient Windows for Your Home

Homeowners are feeling the pinch of an uncertain economy. With that in mind, finding ways to reduce costs comes sharply into focus. Optimizing your home for energy efficiency is a smart move as heating fuel costs rise.

Windows and doors are where up to 35% of a home’s total heat loss happens. Understanding how windows work from an energy efficiency standpoint can help you make your household better acclimatized to all Canadian seasons.

Knowing a few basic concepts will help you shop for energy-efficient windows more effectively.

Double or Triple Glazed Windows

Glazing refers to how many layered panes of glass a window has. Multiple windowpanes trap cold air in between. A simple equation reveals the added heat retention these options provide:

  • R-value indicates overall insulative value. The higher the R-value, the better the window keeps cold out.
  • U-factor indicates how much heat escapes a window. A lower the U-value means better insulating properties.

Single pane windows have varying R-values and U-factors that overall perform poorly in comparison to double or triple glazed windows. According to Canadian Architect:

  • Double glazed windows have an R-value of 3.8 and a U-factor of .26.
  • Triple glazed windows have an R-value of 5 and a U-factor of .20.

Installing double or triple-glazed windows is clearly an important part of increasing your home’s energy efficiency.

Energy Efficient Windows

A window’s status as energy efficient also comes from the design, which can mean reshaping the rough opening where the window goes. This is because part of an energy efficient window’s insulative power comes from its frame.

A better frame means better insulation. Frames made of vinyl or fiberglass are more energy efficient than metal frames. This is because metal conducts heat more easily.

Though resizing the rough hole where the window goes may seem risky, it gives you an opportunity to rethink the amount of natural light you want in a room. This is a secondary vector of home improvement that can come with adopting energy efficient windows. Not only will lower heating bills add value, but added light can, too.

The comfort that comes with more natural light cannot be overstated. It’s no mystery that people like sunlight and get psychological relief from it. A sunnier home with lower heating bills is worth more than the darker, costlier alternative.

Energy Star Certification Indicates Product Quality

Energy Star certification is primarily for addressing environmental concerns but is also known to have strict industry standards. Talk to your builder about the windows they offer and if they have Energy Star certification. If not, inquire about whether or not their products meet that Energy Star standard.

Let Champagne Siding Provide Your Energy-Efficient Windows!

We remodel and renovate houses in Sudbury and the surrounding area. By serving this community with pride, our reputation has kept us thriving since 1979. We’re also members of the TIM-BR® Mart Buying Group, purchasing our materials at better wholesale prices so we can pass the savings on to you. These products also meet Energy Star® standards. Contact us today for a free estimate!