Homeowners from Jacksonville, FL to Santa Barbara, CA have one thing on their mind come summer, and that’s keeping their home cool and their utility bills low. The first place to start on the search for energy efficient solutions is the windows. Unless you’re a home expert with a vast knowledge of window choices, you likely don’t really know what makes one window more efficient than another. The American Window Products team is here to clear a few things up on your search for windows perfect for your Florida home.
Most people know about the general benefits of investing in energy efficient windows. When the air conditioning works overtime in June, July and August, energy-efficient windows step in to keep the cool air inside and keep your energy bill low.
If you worry about harmful UV rays, drafts and moisture build-up, then new windows are your answer. Here are a few primary characteristics to look for when you invest in new windows for your home:
Low-E Glass is Crucial to a Cool Home
This modern feature is a key player in energy efficiency these days. Low-E isn’t a type of window or glass, it’s an invisible, reflective coating added to the inside of the window. The coating reflects harmful UV rays from entering your home, which keeps the heat outside where it belongs. This add-on protects furniture from fading and shields your family and pets from the negative effects of sun damage.
High-Quality, Multi-Paned Glass Makes all the Difference
We get it — it’s totally reasonable to cut corners during certain home improvement projects. New windows, though, don’t fall in that category. Factors associated with quality windows, like Argon gas and the “R” value, are what really save you money in the long run.
So, what do those terms mean? Argon gas is part of the window construction that helps maximize the energy efficiency rating of the windows. The presence of Argon gas increases the “R” value — the ability of the windows to resist heat flow.
Weather Stripping Keeps Cool Air Inside
This is another crucial component that should be a must for your upgraded windows. Weather stripping is the first line of defense when it comes to insulating your home during hot summers and cold winters. It blocks water from leaking inside and drafts from seeping through.
Weather stripping is intended to tightly line the edges of the windows, which makes experienced installers that much more important.
How to Understand Your Window’s Energy Efficiency Labels
Top Left Corner Information
Start by reading the info in this location. This is where you should find a certification by the National Fenestration Ratings Council that states the manufacturer of the window meets all performance standards.
Top Right Corner Information
This is where you can identify the specific window manufacturer and the model. This is also where you can identify the specific materials used to build the windows.
The Important Information
The most important information about energy efficiency is smack dab in the middle of the label. The U-Factor rating indicates the rate of heat loss you can expect — likely between 0.20 and 1.20. A lower value indicates better insulation and a higher level of resistance to heat flow.
The opposite of the U-Value is the R-Value. This value, which is likely a higher number, will help you understand how well your windows can insulate the home. The solar heat gain coefficient states how well the glass can block rays of sun from entering. A lower number between zero and one is best.
Find the Perfect Energy Efficient Windows at American Window Products
Just like most home renovations, shopping for new energy efficient windows can feel overwhelming and confusing. We make it easy at American Window Products. You’ll work with some of the most knowledgeable, trustworthy experts in the industry from beginning to end.
We’re here to help you understand every aspect of energy efficient windows you want. When you’re ready to move forward with your new windows, we’re here for that, too. Reach out to us here to schedule your free estimate.