There are a lot of different windows out there, and Colorado’s unpredictable climate can make things tricky when trying to find the right one. Energy efficiency is a major concern for many window owners, as the wrong windows can be expensive – end wind up causing your utility bills to rise. There are a number of things to consider when looking for energy efficiency in your windows, and finding a trusted Denver window company can help get rid of some of the confusion.
Start From the Outside In
When dealing with energy efficiency with your windows, you need to look at more than the glass. The frame plays a large role in this determination, and is a good place to start when going for the most energy-efficient options on the market. Generally, the most efficient window will be contained in a vinyl frame, because of their high insulating properties and resistance to deterioration over time. Vinyl can also reduce heat from transferring outside in the winter, and keep that cool, conditioned air inside during the summer months.
Windows that are fixed in place are usually the most energy efficient, because they’re fully sealed to the frame. No seams and no moving parts means it’s very hard for air to get through those windows, making energy efficiency very high. Of course, fixed windows aren’t going to be viable for every scenario in your home. For windows that open and close, utilizing windows that create a firm, weather-tight seal when they’re closed.
Energy Efficiency Terms to Consider
When shopping for your own energy efficient windows, there are some terms you’ll run into that might be confusing. One of the terms you should be on the lookout for is Low-E Glass. This stands for low emissivity. Low-E Glass windows reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared rays that are allowed into your home, while allowing all of the visible light in. Depending which side the coating is applied, this can also help reflect heat back into the home.
There is also a rating called U-Factor that refers to h ow much heat will flow through a material. When dealing with windows, most of them have a U-Factor rating anywhere between .20 and 1.2. The lower the number, the less heat flow through the material – meaning the lower the number, the more energy efficient the window. Look for the “whole window” U-Factor when comparing windows to get a complete metric. It’s also important to know that the more energy efficient a window is, the more expensive it likely will be.
Replacing the windows in your home comes with a lot of questions. Energy efficiency is definitely one of them, as the right windows can save you even more money in the long run. Getting the right combination of performance and style should be a big part of your decision, and can go a long way in providing the right window choice for your home. For more information, contact the experts at JDI Windows today.
