What Makes an Energy-Efficient Window?
Energy-conscious homeowners need to know if the windows they are having installed are energy-efficient windows. We need energy-efficient windows to minimize the heating and cooling costs of our homes. Energy-efficient windows are Energy Star certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC ratings meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). There are certain product features that are common in Energy Star windows.
Energy Star = Energy Efficient
Energy-efficient windows are the only windows labeled Energy Star. Energy-efficient windows are made with quality frame materials. There are a variety of durable, low maintenance framing materials that reduce heat transfer and help insulate better. Quality framing materials include fiberglass, aluminum, wood, and composite materials.
Energy-efficient windows consist of two or more panels with air or gas in the space between the panes. Low-e glass windows increase energy efficiency. They have a special coating that reflects infrared light, keeping heat inside in winter and outside in summer.
U-value of a window is a window unit’s resistance to heat loss. The lower the U resistance number, the higher the energy efficiency.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is another rating that signifies Energy-efficient windows. SHGC measures how much heat enters a home through the glass. The lower the SHGC number, the more energy efficient the window.
Installation and Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows need to be installed correctly. Attention needs to be paid to detail in every step of window installation. Smart Construction and Remodeling is a home improvement company you can rely on. If you are in the market for replacement Energy-efficient windows, call us for an estimate at (612) 216-1186. We serve Minneapolis, St Paul, St Cloud, Shakopee, Edina, Inver Grove Heights, Bloomington, Blaine, Burnsville, Minnetonka, Apple Valley, Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Elk River, Forest Lake, and Woodbury, MN.
