Energy-efficient windows help you save money while improving your home’s comfort level in all seasons. They’re available in a variety of materials, including aluminum, wood and clad, fiberglass, and composite.
Choose windows with low-emissivity glass coatings and multi-pane construction to reduce heat transfer. Look for ENERGY STAR certification to ensure your new windows meet climate-specific standards and provide significant cost savings over the years.
Vinyl
If your home’s windows are old and outdated, the time is right to invest in new energy-efficient vinyl replacements. These windows keep your indoor temperatures stable year-round, reducing the amount of money you spend on heating and cooling. New replacement windows also improve the appearance of your home and increase its resale value.
Energy-efficient windows minimize heat transfer by utilizing Low-E glass coatings, multi-pane glass and argon gas filling to improve insulation. Combined, these technologies reflect unwanted solar rays and infrared radiation, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.
When shopping for energy efficient windows, look for a label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The Energy Star logo and zone map indicate that the window meets Energy Star standards for your climate region. The NFRC label also provides other information about the window’s performance, such as its U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The lower the U-factor and SHGC numbers, the more energy efficient a window is.
Wood
Wood windows are a timeless choice for homeowners who want to improve their home’s aesthetic with exceptional energy efficiency. They’re available in a wide range of grid patterns, stylish hardware options, exterior casing and trim, and finishes. Wood windows should be professionally installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to perform optimally.
ENERGY STAR-certified wood windows feature multiple panes of glass that are insulated with nonreactive gases, such as argon or krypton, between them. This increases the insulating value of each window unit and reduces heat transfer, making them a great choice for Louisiana’s hot climate.
Energy-efficient wood windows are also made with low-emissivity (low-e) coatings, which reflect harmful UV rays and keep the cool air inside your home. This helps protect indoor furniture, flooring, and paintings from fading caused by the sun’s rays. Choosing ENERGY STAR-certified windows will help you save money and energy in both the summer and winter, while also reducing your home’s carbon footprint and helping the environment.
Aluminum
When paired with multiple panes of glass and Low-E coating, energy efficient aluminum windows can significantly reduce heat transfer, resulting in lower heating and cooling bills. They can also protect indoor surfaces from fading, reducing the burden on home maintenance crews.
Aluminum is a non-conductive material that offers durability and strength. It can be used with a variety of other materials, including fiberglass and polyurethane, to boost insulation. It is also recyclable, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
When shopping for aluminum windows, look for ENERGY STAR certification. The label indicates that the window meets or exceeds strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. You should also focus on the U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The lower the u-factor and SHGC, the better the insulation.
Fiberglass
The materials used in window frames are critical to energy efficiency. Vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass are popular choices for constructing durable frames that offer superior thermal efficiency. Fiberglass is especially effective due to its ability to insulate and repel moisture. It also resists warping and cracking, ensuring lasting performance.
The use of double-pane glass is another important feature that helps to limit energy loss. The space between the two panes acts as an additional barrier to Midwestern weather and prevents heat from escaping your home. Look for windows with a low U-factor and a Low-E coating to maximize energy savings.
These coatings reflect UV rays and block infrared heat, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature all year round. The result is reduced energy consumption and decreased dependence on artificial heating and cooling systems, which can also reduce your utility bills. In addition, many energy efficient windows feature gas fills and warm-edge spacers to enhance their insulating properties.