What You Need to Know About Energy Efficient Windows

There are many factors that make energy-efficient windows. And let’s face it, windows are not a small purchase. We want you to be prepared when you buy new windows, so we’ve done the hard work for you. This way you’ll be better educated on your new window purchase. Here’s what you need to know before you start shopping for energy-efficient windows.

Three factors to consider when shopping for energy efficient windows.

1. The glass is the most important part of an energy-efficient window.

Glass packages have the greatest effect on your window’s energy efficiency. You may pay a little more for a great glass package up front, but you’ll save more in the long run. Here are a couple of glass package options to keep in mind.

What is Low E?

Low-E glass reflects infrared light keeping heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer. It can also help keep your carpets and furniture from fading.

What is a Gas Fill?

Either Argon or Krypton gas can be placed in between glass panes to provide greater insulation than regular air.

2. Window frame material plays a key role.

Not all window materials are created equal. Windows come in a number of different materials, including vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass and composite.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular window frame materials:

Vinyl window

Vinyl windows are long-lasting, energy efficient and can be customized to fit any size opening. And unlike wood windows, vinyl will never need repainting.

Wood windows

Although they are energy efficient, wood windows are high maintenance. They have to be painted or stained regularly to remain protected from the elements.

Aluminum windows

Aluminum windows are low cost and low maintenance, but they offer the least energy efficiency of any window material.

Fiberglass windows

Fiberglass windows offer a strong window frame, but they’re going to cost you. You may pay a healthy 15-30% more for fiberglass windows than you would for vinyl windows.

Composite windows.

Composite windows combine different window materials to take advantage of the benefits of each window material. Although these windows typically perform well, they are the most expensive window in the market.

3. Consider ENERGY STAR certified windows for the ultimate energy efficiency.

ENERGY STAR is a government supported program that uses specific criteria to define an energy efficient window.

How does ENERGY STAR determine what makes energy efficient windows? By measuring four different parts of the window: the glass, the gas, the spacer and the reinforcement. The combination of these factors influences the window’s U-value and solar heat gain, both of which are drivers for meeting the ENERGY STAR performance level.
To be labeled as an ENERGY STAR product, the U-factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) ratings must be less than or equal to those established by ENERGY STAR. To see the ratings click here.

What is U-value?

The U-value or U-factor is commonly described as the amount of heat transferred through a material. The lower the U-factor, the slower the rate of heat flow and the better the insulating value.

What is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)?  

The SHGC refers to the amount of heat from the sun that windows and doors allow into the home. The lower the number, the greater the ability to reduce the amount of heat absorbed into the home.

Ready to invest in energy efficient windows? Take the first step.

Discover more information about Simonton windows and patio doors on our Get Started page, where we discuss window styles, why vinyl, design options and more. Or utilize the Find Your Perfect Window Tool to complete our step-by-step walkthrough to find the ideal window and door to meet your home’s performance and design needs. When you’re ready to purchase Simonton windows and doors, visit our How To Buy page to find the various ways to purchase our products to meet the needs of your home project.