new efficient windows
New efficient windows will save you energy and money, and will last longer and cost less in the long term.
Old conventional windows lose large amounts of heat to the outside during the heating season and they are a cause of unwanted heat gain during the cooling season. New efficient windows can reduce by 25% the energy bills of an average home, according to US DOE.
A window is a whole
Be aware when selecting new efficient windows. The glass elements of the windows are crucial since they are at the core of the window, but the frame and sash and the materials they are made from are also very important.
In fact, the energy-efficiency of a well-built window is a sum of several details involving the glass panes, but also the glass spacers, the inert gas filling, the thermal breaks (in the case of aluminum windows) or the insulation of the hollow sections of the frame and sash.
For more information, see: Types of window glass and the Best of Residential Windows
Window frames
Window frames and sashes can be made of many materials: steel, aluminum, wood, vinyl, fiberglass and composites of these materials (composite frames use two or more materials: aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood...).
All have advantages and disadvantages, but there are good and not so good options.
Improving or replacing your windows?
Replacing your windows is a typically large investment. And if you are in tight budget or your windows aren't too old and inefficient you may want to consider some cheaper alternatives or ways of improving their effectiveness...
Namely:
1) Storm windows;
2) Weather-stripping your windows and caulking window air leaks;
3) Coverings and exterior or interior shading devices such as awnings, screens, blinds, sunscreens, shades, drapes...
5) Sun reflective window films (for cooling purposes in hot climates).
See also, for details:
Energy-efficient window costs and
Windows weatherstripping materials
Top Windows Manufacturers
Choose a good window installer: the most efficient window doesn't worth much without a good installation.
A good manufacturer is also a very important first step to get an efficient window, but do not forget that the type or design of a window is also important (casement windows are particularly energy-efficient, contrary to sliding ones) and that the best manufacturers have different series of windows with different ratings.
So, pay also attention to their energy rating labels: they provide basic and crucial information to compare new and replacement windows.
See:
Top window energy efficient manufacturers
Window designs and types
Window energy rating
Windows and climate
Different climates demand different windows. The best insulation value (U-value) and the best Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of a window varies with the type of climate where the windows is going to be used.
Even the sides of the the house where the window is going to be located matters.
Pay attention to these features when shopping new energy-efficient windows (and skylights or patio doors).
For more information, see:
Windows for cold, hot and mix climates
Window and Door Tax Credits
See also: