Make All Your Windows Energy Efficient Windows!

Do your windows help keep the heat and cold out of your home? Energy Efficient Windows will. If your existing windows aren't doing their job properly, your heating and air conditioning may be working harder than they need to and costing you money. If that's the case, it's time to invest in new windows. This is a major home improvement purchase so you want to make sure you do your research and buy the right product for you and your family, your climate and your budget.

Choose the Right Energy Efficient Windows

Buying Windows is an investment in your home and good ones are not cheap! But they will save you Energy and Money and will keep you and your family comfortable for years to come. When choosing windows, consider not only initial price but also the warranty, maintenance costs and the quality of the company selling them.

Look for Energy Star

This is a government-backed program helping individuals and businesses protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. When you buy new windows, look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star Windows meet strict energy efficiency guidelines and save energy and money.

Ask about the U value

The U value tells you how much heat passes through the glass. A lower U value means less heat gets through.

Get Low Emmissivity (Low E) Coating

A Low E coating limits the amount of heat that passes through the glass. The lower the rating, the better the insullation.
Note: Low E coatings do not prevent your drapes and furniture from fading.

Ask about Eligibility for an Energy Efficient Tax Break.

Exterior Windows and other energy saving purchases may qualify you. Check with your contractor and accountant.

Choose Double Panes

Double paned glass offers more insullation than single paned glass thus keeping out the heat and cold.

Choose the Type of Frame

Aluminum Frames are strong, light and long-lasting. Because it conducts heat and cold, aluminum is not really the best choice for extreme climates.

Wood Frames are very popular for their looks. They offer excellent insullation but are susceptible to damage such as warping and chipping.

Vinyl Frames also offer excellent insullation and require less maintenance than wood. Unlike wood, however, you cannot paint them so make sure you like the color!

Installation

Once you've chosen the right Energy Efficient Windows for your home, it's very important to have them installed properly. You'll want to have a good seal so air doesn't leak in and out. When that happens, energy is being wasted which could increase your energy bill. It's not a bad idea to check all your door and window seals periodically.

Ready to Get Bids?

It is always recommended you get at least 3 estimates before making a decision. This checklist can help prepare you for the estimates and will make it easier to compare them afterwards.

Once you've got your new Energy Efficient Windows installed, you can sit back and enjoy the savings!

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