The SHGC range for windows is typically between 0.15 to 0.60.Įvery ENERGY STAR window is independently certified and verified to perform at levels that meet or exceed energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Therefore, a window with a low SHGC is better for hot, sunny climates, where blocking the heat entering the home will reduce air conditioning costs. The lower the number the more heat is blocked. SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) – A measure of how much solar heat from sunlight is blocked by the window. The U-factor range for windows is typically between 0.15 and 0.50. Therefore, a window with a low U-factor is better for cold climates to keep the heat inside. The lower the number the more the window will insulate. U-factor – A measure of the insulating power of a window. Window Performance Key Window Performance Parameters Here are some key window performance parameters to consider before you shop. ENERGY STAR ratings vary depending on the climate where you live so you get the right balance of comfort and savings. Ask around to find leads on good contractors who sell a good windows product, provide product performance details, do not use pressure sales tactics, communicate well, have a good warrantee, and are clean and respectful during the installation.ĮNERGY STAR windows come with a label indicating where the product is certified for. Talk to neighbors or friends who have had their windows replaced recently.The US EPA has excellent guidance on lead paint issues here. Following lead paint clean-up protocols is good for your home because they require the installer to catch any lead paint chips that fall during removal of the old windows, to clean up the site with extra care when the job is completed, and to dispose of the old windows correctly. Was your home built before 1978? – If so, the installer will likely have to take precautions due to possible lead paint.Window installation costs are lower for the contractor if they come to your home for a larger project because of the time it takes to haul the windows to your home, set up the site, and clean up the site. How many windows do you plan to buy? - To get the best price per window, it helps to plan to buy at least 10 windows to reduce installation costs.Windows that do not open are also hard to clean and maintain. Windows that do not open or are painted shut – Windows that do not open prevent you from enjoying fresh air on a nice day or a cool evening after a hot day which can reduce energy costs.Degraded windows can also leak water into your walls causing more problems and allow insects and other pests to enter your home. Windows with air leaks or drafts and degraded sills and sashes – These windows also waste energy and are very uncomfortable to sit next to when it is cold and windy out.Single-pane windows are big energy wasters. Single-pane windows (windows with only one layer of glass) – These windows are poor performers at insulating against cold weather and typically do not have coatings to block solar heat in the summer, increasing air conditioning costs.
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