Window Replacement

Pondering window replacement on your home?

There are significant advantages to replacing old, single-pane windows. You´ll save substantially on energy costs, add to your home´s resale value, and increase your own comfort and pleasure in your home.

Installed correctly, high-quality windows more than pay for themselves over time. Your savings depend on the condition of your existing windows and the type of replacement windows. The poorer the performance of your current windows, the more noticeable the energy savings will be. Older, drafty single pane windows and sliding glass doors may lose as much as 50% more energy in heat or AC loss than new double- or triple-pane windows.

Technology improvements save energy

The following factors can dramatically improve thermal performance of your windows:

• Opening style. Consider the benefits of fixed and casement windows instead of sliding or double-hung windows. Fixed windows minimize leakage around windows and may be the best choice for locations where ventilation isn´t an issue. Casement windows that crank open and close have seals that compress slightly to reduce the opportunity for air leaks.
• Frame material and construction. Heat loss through the frame is as big an issue as the type of glass. Wood and vinyl frames both perform better than metal. For longer term durability, avoid vinyl window frames that use screws to hold them together. Look for welded seams that use heat or chemical processes to fuse joints. Wood is as energy efficient as vinyl, but requires more maintenance. Some people prefer wood for the aesthetic value.
• Number of glass layers. Most old windows have only one pane of glass. New windows have two or three panes of glass. The extra layers improve performance by using gases between layers, which is an effective insulation technique and the closed air spaces reduce the chance of heat escaping. Multiple surfaces also provide more surface area "low-E" coatings.
• Low-E coatings. Invisible low-E coatings reduce light that can damage carpets and fabrics without compromising the quality of light you see. By blocking infrared light the window´s insulation value is improved too.
• Fill gases. Some gases, like argon or carbon dioxide, provide even more insulation value than plain air when sealed between two panes of glass in dual-pane windows.

U-factors and you

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) assigns each window a U-factor rating based on the type of window, materials, and construction. To compare windows, check for the NFRC label, and then look for the U-factor rating. Simply put, the lower the U-factor the better the insulation performance of that particular window. Typical U-factor examples are shown below.

The NFRC ratings apply to only new windows. As windows age, they can warp or leak, so the U-factor can drop substantially. A reputable window installer can help you select the correct windows for your home that provide long lasting performance and value.