Window Options
From Remodeling Ideas
Better Homes & Gardens
Energy-Efficient Windows
How Efficient Is It?
If you're like most homeowners, you don't just want energy efficiency, you expect it. Almost any good-quality window you buy today incorporates insulating glass -- two pieces of glass with a sealed air space between them as a buffer between indoors and out. Combined with a wood or vinyl frame, insulating glass creates a window that outperforms most windows that were installed before the 1970s energy crisis.
To squash high heating and cooling bills, most window manufacturers offer such high performance options as low-emissivity (low-E) glass, which usually has a small additional cost. Low-E glass, which boasts the same visibility as plain glass, reflects heat and screens out the sun's rays, keeping your home cool and protecting curtains and carpets from fading. In fact, low-E glass is available today geared for both hot and cold climates, allowing you to customize your windows' efficiency depending on your climate.
Whichever type of low-E glass you choose, you often have the option of argon gas as part of the high-performance package. This heavy, inert gas is used in place of air between the two panes of glass to further enhance the window's insulating abilities.
Another feature manufacturers are highlighting these days is warm-edge technology. Instead of a traditional aluminum spacer between the panes of insulating glass, warm-edge windows use a spacer that doesn't transfer heat as readily. The overall improvement to a window's thermal performance is limited, but this feature reduces the condensation buildup on a window's perimeter, which can be a problem in some cold climates.
Window Audit
Looking for excellent efficiency and comfort? Ask these questions about the window you're considering:
· What type of energy options are available on this window? Some dealers forget to mention upgrades such as low-E glass, sun-control coatings for hot climates, or between-pane features such as pleated shades and mini-blinds.
· How does the window rate? Many windows carry energy-efficiency ratings standardized by the National Fenestration Rating Council. The National Wood Window Association and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association have window-rating programs that also factor in other performance measures.
· What warranty is offered, and who will back it?
· Will it be competently installed? Even the best-made window won't perform if the window opening is sloppily framed and poorly insulated.
Other Considerations
If ease of cleaning is important, you'll want to make sure the windows you're purchasing tilt in or open so the exterior glass can be reached from the inside. This is particularly important for windows installed above the ground floor.
Also try the hardware. Does the window unlock, turn, and open easily? This is not only a good way to check the hardware, but you can get an overall feel of the window's quality by checking how it opens and closes. Even the appearance of the window gives you clues about quality. Examine the window perimeter to see if the seal of glass is neat. For windows with a welded frame, check the welds to see if they are tidy.
For more information, or to view this article, please click on the link below.
http://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/windows/window-options/?page=2
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