Tips for Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows
If you want to invest in new energy efficient windows for your office or home, you may encounter some difficulties given the many options available in the market today. If you are shopping at major stores or through a window replacement contractor, it is difficult to identify the window that best fits your energy efficiency needs. You need to purchase a window that helps you save both money and energy. There are some energy saving windows that enable you to earn government tax credit. In other cases, you qualify for rebates and loans from financial institutions at subsidized rates. If thermal performance and energy efficiency are what you need, this article will help you.
Look for the Star Rating Level
When shopping for energy- efficient windows, look for those that have a star rating. Energy conservation agencies have introduced ratings of windows energy efficiency using stars. A star-rated window is certified as energy efficient. If you do not understand the rating, it is prudent to hire a professional to guide you through the buying process. There are a few prime ways of gauging a window’s performance indicated on the labels. Every label states the essential characteristics and performance factors of the window. Choose a star rated window that fits your energy saving needs.
Consider Insulating Values
When buying energy- efficient windows consider insulating factors such as the U-Factor. The U- factor measures the window’s thermal conductivity and insulating abilities. A window with a lower U-factor number has good insulating quality. If your budget allows, it is advisable to buy a window frame that has inert gases like krypton and argon in between double glass panes. Inert gases increase the insulating quality of a window frame, thus saving on energy. Other insulating factors to consider are the use of low- remittance coatings on the glass surface. If you do not understand the insulation qualities, get an experienced window replacement contractor to guide and select the best energy saving windows for you.
Choose Window Frames that Save on Energy
There are many window frames on the market today. Choose a frame that fits your climate and energy saving needs. When choosing a window frame, consider its maintenance and other personal preferences such as window design and matching factors. Advantages of window frames differ In terms of the material used; wood is the most traditional window frame material. It is advantageous because it insulates naturally. However, the biggest hurdle with wood frames is maintenance. They require frequent painting to prevent them from warping, rotting and cracking. Wood frames are more convenient for use in single story buildings as it is easier to maintain.
The most popular material is vinyl. It is affordable and durable as compared to wood. Vinyl-clad material is an excellent alternative given it is weather-tolerant, has good insulating qualities and adds beauty to the door finishing. Vinyl-clad material is also easy to maintain. The third frame material is aluminum. Unlike wood, it is resistant to warping and splitting and does not require painting. The downside of aluminum frames is their notoriety for transferring cold and heat. Aluminum frames also have condensation problems in northern climates.
When choosing energy efficient windows, ensure that they have a warranty. A window replacement project is a long-term investment that requires high quality and valuable products. The type of warranty given by the manufacturer determines the quality and durability of the product. Buy windows from a company whose values match your needs. The company must have a proven track record and commitment in terms of quality service and product delivery. Shopping at the right place is an assurance of getting quality energy efficient products. Here at Mikita Door & Window we’re here to help with all of your window needs!
