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CartHere’s How to Boost Home Value and Energy Efficiency with New Windows
The right windows will improve your home, inside and out. New windows will boost your home’s curb appeal. Energy-efficient windows will cut your carbon footprint while trimming heating and cooling bills. Windows can even increase your quality of life by reducing drafts and annoying outdoor noise pollution. They vary in their design, cost, functionality and energy efficiency. Read on to explore your window-shopping options.
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Types of Windows
There are a wide variety of window types to choose from. Let’s run through some options — from common to niche — with suggestions for where they shine best.
Window Frame Materials
When weighing your window options, consider window frame materials. Materials can vary in energy efficiency, cost, style and durability, so choose according to your budget and project goals.
Vinyl Window Frames | A versatile vinyl (or PVC) window will not rot, chip or peel. Vinyl is also durable, low maintenance, affordable and energy efficient. It’s popular for renovations and new construction homes. |
Aluminum Window Frames | Aluminum is lightweight, but very strong. While energy efficiency isn’t its strongest point, it is weather-resistant, durable and easy to clean. It has a sleek, modern appearance. |
Wood Window Frames | A wood window frame provides timeless beauty. Wood is naturally energy efficient and resists temperature extremes. It’s an authentic choice for traditional homes and is durable if regularly maintained. |
Fibreglass Window Frames | This durable, low-maintenance material is extremely energy efficient. It resists fading and chipping and can mimic the appearance of wood for a traditional look with less upkeep. |
Hybrid Window Frames | A hybrid window frame combines different materials to leverage the benefits of each. The most common hybrid window frames are aluminum cladding over wood, aluminum exterior with vinyl interior construction and vinyl exterior with wood interior. |
Types of Window Glass
The type of glass you use is also an important consideration when buying new windows, as it will impact energy efficiency and your budget (at time of purchase and in energy use over the years to come).
Insulating Glass
This type of glass has two or more panes with space between each layer. These panes of glass are called thermal panes or insulating glass units (IGUs). The space can also be filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton, to further improve insulation and meet building codes.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass is low-emissivity glass. It has a special coating that reduces the transfer of heat through the glass. It may be tinted to further reduce heat. In summer, low-E glass lets in sunlight while blocking out damaging UV rays. In winter, it reflects heat back into the room.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is extremely strong and often used for safety. It crumbles, rather than shattering into dangerous shards.
Insulating Glass
This type of glass has two or more panes with space between each layer. These panes of glass are called thermal panes or insulating glass units (IGUs). The space can also be filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton, to further improve insulation and meet building codes.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass is low-emissivity glass. It has a special coating that reduces the transfer of heat through the glass. It may be tinted to further reduce heat. In summer, low-E glass lets in sunlight while blocking out damaging UV rays. In winter, it reflects heat back into the room.
Laminated Glass
This type of glass consists of multiple layers of glass bonded together with a plastic layer in the middle. It looks like a single piece of glass, but the layers improve insulation. Laminated glass helps eliminate damaging UV rays and insulates against noise.
Obscure Glass
Often used in bathrooms, or other areas requiring privacy, this glass allows light to enter but blurs visibility to maintain privacy. Obscure glass comes in various textures and patterns to suit your décor.
Understanding Window Energy Efficiency
Window efficiency can reduce energy costs and help to provide a more comfortable home environment. Below are important designations to look out for.
ENERGY STAR ®-certified products are tested to meet strict technical specifications for energy performance. This symbol indicates the most energy-efficient product.
ENERGY STAR-certified products are tested to meet strict technical specifications for energy performance. This symbol indicates the most energy-efficient products.
A window’s Energy Rating (ER) number factors other energy efficiency measurements, such as its Air Leakage (AL), U-factor (heat loss/transfer) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGCL, solar heat transfer through the window) ratings. The higher the ER number, the more energy-efficient the window.
Always choose windows that meet local Building Codes and are qualified for the zone you live in. A professional assessment can help.
