Energy efficiency is as important as architectural style when it comes to choosing windows for your home.
New windows can completely transform a home’s appearance and add charming curb appeal. However, choosing the best window for your home isn’t just about style. Windows play a significant role in your home’s energy efficiency. You want windows that reduce utility costs and increase comfort, and different windows accomplish those goals in different ways. For example, windows designed for colder climates conserve warmth in the winter while those designed for warmer climates block heat in the summer.
How do I tell if windows are designed for my climate?
The United States Department of Energy applies the service mark to certified energy-efficient windows. Certified windows lower household energy bills by an average of 12% nationwide. Ratings factor in climate zones to ensure you get the right balance of comfort and savings. Take a look at a window’s label to identify if it’s right for your climate zone.
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What is a window’s U-Factor?
U-factor measures the insulating power of a window using a numerical range between 0.15 and 0.50. Windows with a low U-factor offer more insulation, making them ideal for homes in cold climates.
What is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)?
SHGC measures how much thermal heat from sunlight is blocked by the window using a numerical range between 0.15 and 0.60. A window with a lower SHGC blocks more heat, making them perfect for hot, sunny climates.
What is Visible Transmittance?
Expressed as a number from 0 to 1, visible transmittance describes how much visible light passes through a window. Areas with longer, darker winters often benefit from windows with higher visible transmittance that allow more visible light to pass.
What is Air Leakage?
Air leakage, also known as air infiltration, is measured using a numerical range from 0.1 to 0.3. A window with an air leakage rating of 0.1 allows the least amount of air leakage. Whether you’re using AC in the summer or heat in the winter, you want a sealed envelope to keep conditioned air in and drafts out. Because installation affects infiltration, windows must be professionally installed to prevent leaks in your home’s envelope and keep the rating at 0.1.
Get the right windows for your home from Kasson and Keller.
Kasson and Keller manufactures a complete line of certified replacement and new construction vinyl window products. Get in touch today to learn how our Ecoshield windows can reduce utility costs and increase comfort in your climate zone.
Are you ready for an upgrade?
Learn more about Kasson & Keller’s vinyl windows and how they can save you money by contacting us at sales@kassonkeller.com or 1-800-452-7535.
