4 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows

Besides the security, style, and aesthetics, homeowners are replacing or upgrading to new windows to improve their homes’ energy efficiency. The right design and features play a huge role in lowering those enormous energy bills in your home.

However, the entire window replacement and installation industry has so many configurations, codes, and phrases that you may need to know the right window for your energy needs.

If you are in Guelph, our windows and doors Guelph installation experts can readily guide you. But if elsewhere, then here are some of the things to consider when choosing energy-efficient windows:

Table of Contents

1. The Right Frame Material

Some of the favored frame material options on the market include fiberglass, vinyl, wood, and aluminum. While each has unique, exceptional qualities, some may only be somewhat suitable for energy efficiency. The key is to choose proper windows based on your climate, budget, and style.

You want a highly resilient and robust frame material that can withstand various temperatures. The frame and glass can sometimes expand or contract depending on how high or low the temperatures become. Again, different materials can react to temperatures differently.

For example, vinyl is excellent if you are on a tight budget, but they expand in high temperatures and could be susceptible to small leaks over time. Experts also say aluminum is a heavy heat conductor and might not be helpful in curbing energy costs in hotter climates.

2. Energy-Efficient Windows with the Right Features

Energy-efficient windows comprise several features and characteristics that determine how well you can lower energy bills in your home. The windows’ exterior displays the following:

U-FACTOR, which determines the amount of heat your window lets into your home. An energy-efficient window should have had a lower U-FACTOR and excellent insulation capabilities.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): The SHGC determines the amount of sun heat your window absorbs. The lower the SHGC, the more energy efficient your window should be. If you are in a warmer climate, you should choose energy efficiency with lower SHGC so you will save your energy and energy to cool your home.
Visible Transmittance (VT) Rating: The VT rating determines how much light your energy-efficient window lets into your home. It is prudent to go for a higher VT to help bring sufficient light to your home, especially in the darker sections, such as the kitchen and the basement. A higher VT implies less reliance on artificial lighting, helping you reduce energy bills.

3. Affordable Energy-Efficient Windows

If you are replacing or upgrading, you might be surprised how far and advanced your new windows are, compared to the older ones. Current windows have special coatings and assembly methods. They are superior designs with high-quality panes, making them costly.

Still, there is always something for everyone. If you go for custom-made windows, discuss with windows and doors replacement experts to ensure your order is within your budget.

4. A Brand’s Good Reputation

There is something about a brand’s reputation that can help you know if you are getting the right energy-efficient windows for your home. A quick search through customer reviews should immediately show whether you might get a raw deal.

Generally, a reputable and reliable brand has an excellent customer support team. They should be able to guide you through the entire window shopping process. They will assess your needs, geographical location, and budget to provide the most suitable energy-efficient windows.

There are so many options and varieties of energy-efficient windows. But not all of them are suitable for your needs. Only initial consultation with window experts can ensure you have the right ones.