home remodeling & Windows

Replacing energy-inefficient windows is a relatively expensive project, but it may be worthwhile in large remodeling project. Just pay attention to the size, type and location of the windows, and the glass, sash and frame features.

The Type Of Windows

Prefer the casement windows type for energy-efficiency and also for natural cross-ventilation.

See: Types and designs of windows

The Type Of Glass

In a remodel choose a two or three-pane glass windows (avoid single glass windows), and pay attention to its U-factor (Heat-loss Factor), SHGC (Solar Heat Gains Coefficient) and VT (Visible Transmission).

A low U-factor (less than 0,32) will provide lower heating bills in cold climates.

A low SHGC (less than 0,4) will keep homes cooler in hot weather conditions.

A low VT (Visible Transmission) glass will cut the glare of the low-angle sun in east and west windows.

See, for details: Window Basics

Windows Area and Cooling

If you live in a hot climate and if your existing windows do not provide easy passage of breezes, consider changing some of them. Remodeling is a great opportunity to accomplish it.

If you have large cooling needs, bet on windows with large opening areas - to allow the passage of breezes.

Be aware, anyway. All depends on your climate, obviously: if your heating needs are dominant, very large windows aren’t advantageous. Large windows can also be a source of unwanted heat in summer, or cause unwanted heat losses in cold weather conditions and cold nights.

Some rules, point to a glaze surface between 10 and 25% of the total floor area of the house. But that's just a reference for mild and cold climates.

Windows & Remodeling & Heating

In cold or even in temperate climates, preventing heat loss through windows is a priority that demands adequate sealing and glass.

In a renovation, the type of glass should be considered carefully, as well as features like sashes, frames and the type of windows…

See: New efficient windows

Windows Location

Remodeling can be an opportunity to improve the location of some windows. In climates with large or reasonable heating needs, most of the area of the windows should be located in the sunny side of the house (the south in northern hemisphere countries, the north in southern hemisphere countries).

In very hot climates, where sun protection is the goal, consider the opposite of the rule above.

On mild and cold climates, the area of north-facing windows (in northern hemisphere countries) or south-facing windows (in the southern hemisphere) should be minimal, while the west and east windows surface should also be small, to minimize unwanted glare impacts.

Window films, awnings and other Devices

See, for details: Windows and cooling devices