Window replacement is one of the most cost-effective home improvement projects that can cut your energy costs in the summer and winter. Energy-efficient windows prevent heat transfer and reduce your peak cooling energy demand.
Look for NFRC labels to ensure you get a quality product. These provide information on the visible transmittance, U-factor, and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of a window.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass isn’t flashy, but it plays a quiet yet important role in your home. Made from microscopic glass fibers bonded to a plastic resin, it’s found in insulation and construction materials.
It exhibits excellent corrosion resistance to chemicals and environmental elements. It’s also a good thermal and acoustic insulator.
Energy loss through windows is a serious problem in most homes. To reduce it, opt for ENERGY STAR certified frames with a low U-factor and a low solar heat gain coefficient. Also, choose windows with an optimal special Low-E coating that reflects long-wave heat radiation away from your home. This will significantly lower your air conditioning costs.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows offer durability and require little maintenance, making them a popular choice for Florida homeowners. They also help reduce energy costs by blocking UV and infrared rays while allowing visible light to pass through.
All NFRC-certified windows have a U-factor rating that measures how much heat escapes through the window. Look for a lower number to save money on cooling costs in the summer and heating bills in the winter.
Another important rating to consider is the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). A higher SHGC allows more of the sun’s radiation into your home, which can raise indoor temperatures and increase cooling costs.
Composite
The windows you choose for your home play a critical role in its security and energy efficiency. Choosing the right window materials and having them installed by qualified professionals contributes to a safe and comfortable home.
Wood windows offer a classic aesthetic that complements different house styles. However, they are more expensive than aluminum or vinyl and require regular maintenance like painting and staining.
For improved energy efficiency, opt for ENERGY STAR-certified frames that have low U-factors and solar heat gain coefficients to keep the house cool and reduce air conditioning costs. You can also consider insert installation, which allows you to fit new windows into existing frames without removing the original sashes.
Wood
Wood is a popular choice for windows, offering a traditional look and good insulation. However, it requires more maintenance than other materials because it swells and shrinks in moisture. You can minimize this effect with regular staining and painting. You can also choose clad windows, which have a wood interior and an aluminum or vinyl exterior.
These windows have an insulating space between the glass windowpanes and use argon gas as a filler. This prevents the movement of heat to reduce cooling costs and save on energy usage. They have a low solar heat gain coefficient and a low conductance or U-factor, which is ideal for Florida’s warm climate.
Single Hung
Double-hung windows come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, making them more versatile than single-hung windows. They also offer a range of benefits that can improve the energy efficiency of your home. However, they can be more expensive and require maintenance to prevent air leaks and deterioration of the movable sash.
They provide limited ventilation and are less suited to upper floors where heat naturally rises. However, they still offer a tight seal that helps reduce drafts and lower heating costs in cold climates. They are a good choice for spaces that need a lot of air flow, such as bathrooms.
Double Hung
ENERGY STAR-certified windows help homeowners lower their energy costs by keeping the heat out in summer and the cold in in winter. They are also durable, aesthetically pleasing, and have one of the best warranties. They come in a variety of styles, colors, and trim options. Choose from clad windows, which have a wood interior and aluminum or vinyl exterior, or single-hung windows, which are a popular choice for new construction and renovation projects.
These windows are hinged at the top and open outward, allowing for ventilation even during rain. They are a good option for kitchen remodeling and other spaces that require frequent air circulation.