3 Things To Consider If You Want Energy-Efficient Windows
3 Things To Consider Before Getting
Energy-Efficient Replacement
Windows In Canyon
Know The Ins And Outs
Before Upgrading
Your Windows
Energy-efficient replacement windows in Canyon are one of the best upgrades you can make to your home. Not only are energy-efficient windows aesthetically pleasing and boost your property value, but they also increase your home’s comfort and safety.
But before you start calling around and scheduling consultations with various window installation companies, it’s essential to know what to look for in replacement windows and which types may be best for your home.
Amarillo Solar Shade understands that getting replacement windows for your home can be exciting and confusing – especially if you don’t know what to expect or consider. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide of things to consider before getting replacement windows for your Randall County home.
1. Do The Replacement Windows You’re Considering
Have Energy Star Ratings?
Energy Star ratings are among the first things to look for when choosing replacement windows. They determine whether the windows have been certified energy-efficient by Energy Star and will have a label detailing their performance.
The Energy Star labels are created by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to ensure homeowners find the perfect windows to suit their needs.
How To Read Energy Star Ratings For
Your Replacement Windows
Energy Star ratings and NFRC labels can be confusing to most homeowners, which is why we’ve broken down the three main performance factors.
Air Leakage
Drafty windows are the opposite of energy-efficient. If you have drafty windows, you need to replace them ASAP. A low air leakage rating is ideal regardless of your climate. Any number below 0.3 cubic feet per minute per square foot means your window is among the most energy-efficient.
U-Factor
Your windows’ U-factor is the measure of non-solar heat transference. In other words, it measures how quickly heat is lost or gained through the window. The U-factor measures a window’s insulative properties.
Low U-factor ratings are ideal in colder climates but aren’t as pressing in the Texas Panhandle. Still, our winters can get pretty nasty, so it’s best to have a window with a decent U-factor.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
The solar heat gain coefficient – or SHGC – measures how well your window blocks UV rays. A low SHGC is ideal, but if your perfect replacement windows have a higher SHGC than you’d like, don’t worry. Your professional window installer can add Low-E glass coatings to your windows, lowering the SHGC.
2. What Kind Of Replacement Windows Do You Want?
There are many styles and types of replacement windows, and the specific look and function will depend on what you want for your home.
The most popular types of windows are double-hung and single-hung. Double-hung windows have two operating sashes that can open and let in air from the top and bottom. Single-hung windows have only one sash, usually the bottom, that can open and let in air.
However, these aren’t the only window types. You can have bow windows, bay windows, casement, or more, depending on what you want from your windows.
3. Consider The Material Of Your Replacement
Windows’ Frames
Energy efficiency isn’t all about the glass. The material of your windows’ frames plays a significant role in maximizing their energy efficiency.
Traditionally, windows were – and many still are – made of wood or aluminum. But at Amarillo Solar Shade, we’ve seen far better performance with vinyl and fiberglass window frames.
Vinyl and fiberglass are the most cost-effective window frame materials. They’re both versatile, available in a wide range of colors, and easy to install. They also require little maintenance and are long-lasting. Neither vinyl or fiberglass warps nor fades in the sun – a must-have here in the Texas Panhandle!
Having a trusted company is vital to getting the most out of your replacement windows. At Amarillo Solar Shade, we’ve provided top-quality replacement windows to Canyon homeowners for more than ten years. In all that time, we’ve earned our shining reputation through hard work and outstanding service.
If you live in or around Randall County and need exceptional replacement windows at affordable prices, call Amarillo Solar Shade today at (806) 356-0186. Call to get your free estimate!
