Buying energy-efficient windows are more challenging than you might think. Understanding the logic behind the sophisticated design of today’s products is imperative to appreciate their value. Since not all high-performance units are equal, be smart when exploring solutions to select the windows that suit your specific needs.
To identify the most appropriate windows for your unique situation, All States Home Improvement shares some useful tips:
Check NFRC Ratings
There are two ways to shop around for energy-efficient windows: looking for the ENERGY STAR® seal and reading the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. The first one is straightforward, but the second requires a bit of investigation.
The NFRC label contains information about the product’s energy performance ratings. It details the unit’s U-factor (ability to insulate) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (ability to admit the sun’s heat) among others. These two measurements don’t say which replacement windows are good or bad; rather, they show which ones would work best for the local climate.
To choose the right energy-efficient units within the context of your region, understand which climate zone ENERGY STAR classifies your location. For instance, Wichita is part of the North-Central Climate Zone. This means windows with a U-factor of 0.30 (or less) and an SHGC of 0.40 (or less) deliver optimal performance.
Choose the Material Carefully
The window material contributes to energy efficiency through thermal insulation and air leakage prevention. In other words, choose the one that doesn’t conduct too much energy and can stay weathertight for the years to come.
Good candidates abound, but fiberglass and vinyl are the best in our book. They’re excellent insulators and durable enough not to develop cracks over time.
Hire a Specialist
Like in any home improvement project, hiring the right contractor means everything. Your fiberglass or vinyl windows are only as good as their installers. Do your due diligence to ensure your contractor has the credentials to deliver flawless work. After all, workmanship errors lead to premature failures, resulting in air and water infiltration.
At All States Home Improvement, we represent the most trusted brands in the industry, including Soft-Lite, Wincore Windows and Beechworth. All of our products are ENERGY STAR-certified with outstanding NFRC ratings. To learn more about our credentials, products and services, contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation in Wichita, KS.
