{"id":816,"date":"2025-07-21T13:48:01","date_gmt":"2025-07-21T10:48:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/?page_id=816"},"modified":"2025-07-26T23:08:49","modified_gmt":"2025-07-26T20:08:49","slug":"3434-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/?page_id=816","title":{"rendered":"A Consumer\u2019s Guide: Buying Energy Efficient Windows"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"model-response-message-contentr_8f202e961520059f\" class=\"markdown markdown-main-panel enable-updated-hr-color\" dir=\"ltr\">\n<p>Energy efficiency is a popular term today, but its true meaning and impact on your window purchase might not be immediately clear. This guide aims to provide all the essential information about energy-efficient windows before you invest in them for your home.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How Do Standard Windows and Energy-Efficient Windows Differ?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The fundamental design and functionality of an <b>energy-efficient window<\/b> distinguish it from a standard one. The materials employed in their construction vary significantly.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some advanced characteristics of energy-efficient windows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-215\">Multi-Paned Construction<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-215 citation-end-215\"> for enhanced insulation, impact protection, and noise reduction.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"1\">1<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-214 citation-end-214\">Energy-efficient windows are typically manufactured with two, and sometimes even three, panes of glass.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"2\">2<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-213\">Special Coatings<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-213 citation-end-213\"> that reflect infrared light to retain heat indoors during winter and keep it out during summer.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"3\">3<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-212 citation-end-212\">These coatings can also block ultraviolet light, which helps prevent furniture in your home from fading.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"4\">4<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-211\">Insulating Fills<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-211 citation-end-211\"> between multiple panes of glass, using air or inert gas, provide superior insulation compared to a single pane.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"5\">5<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"citation-210\">Constructed with <\/span><b><span class=\"citation-210\">low-maintenance framing materials<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-210 citation-end-210\">, such as fiberglass, vinyl, or composite, to reduce heat transfer and improve insulation.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"6\">6<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How Do Windows Achieve Their Energy-Efficient Standard Rating?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-209\">Energy-efficient windows are assessed and labeled by the <\/span><b><span class=\"citation-209\">National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-209 citation-end-209\">, an independent non-profit organization.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"7\">7<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-208\">While the <\/span><b><span class=\"citation-208\">ENERGY STAR label<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-208 citation-end-208\"> indicates overall energy efficiency, the NFRC label offers a more detailed breakdown of a product&#8217;s energy performance, allowing for direct product comparisons.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"8\">8<\/sup><\/span> NFRC ratings provide insights into a window&#8217;s performance across the following categories:<\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>U-Factor:<\/b><span class=\"citation-207 citation-end-207\"> This metric quantifies how effectively the window insulates by measuring the rate of heat transfer.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"9\">9<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-206 citation-end-206\">Windows with a lower U-factor are better insulators, so a low number is desirable.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"10\">10<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-205\">Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC):<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-205 citation-end-205\"> This signifies how well the product blocks heat from sunlight by measuring the amount of solar energy transmitted.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"11\">11<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-204 citation-end-204\">A lower SHGC indicates less solar heat is transmitted by the window, so a low number is preferred.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"12\">12<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b>Air Leakage (AL):<\/b> This gauges the rate at which air flows through the window&#8217;s joints. <span class=\"citation-203 citation-end-203\">A lower AL value denotes less air leakage, making a low number favorable.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"13\">13<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b>Visible Light Transmittance (VT):<\/b> This determines the amount of visible light the window allows through. A lower VT means less light is visible, so if you prefer abundant natural sunlight, look for a high number.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span class=\"citation-202 citation-end-202\">Additionally, because windows are designed with various features, some perform better in certain climates than others.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"14\">14<\/sup><\/span> It is crucial to select the window type that is most appropriate for your specific climate. The United States is divided into four distinct zones: Northern, North-Central, South-Central, and Southern. Within each of these zones, performance criteria for windows and skylights vary, based on ratings certified by the NFRC.<\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What Are the Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows?<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-201 citation-end-201\">Installing energy-efficient windows in your home offers numerous advantages.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"15\">15<\/sup><\/span> Here are a few key benefits:<\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Save Money<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-200\">ENERGY STAR has estimated that an American home can <\/span><b><span class=\"citation-200\">save<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-200 citation-end-200\"> anywhere from $126 to $465 annually on heating and cooling costs by replacing single-paned windows. F<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"16\">16<\/sup><\/span>o<span class=\"citation-199 citation-end-199\">r double-paned windows, estimated savings range from $27 to $111 per year.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"17\">17<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-198 citation-end-198\">Investing in new energy-efficient windows can lead to long-term financial savings by reducing your energy expenses.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"18\">18<\/sup><\/span> It&#8217;s estimated that 70% of energy loss in a home occurs through windows and doors, with a striking 90% of that loss happening through the glass itself. <span class=\"citation-197 citation-end-197\">Avoid overworking your HVAC system; maintain warmth in winter and cool air in summer with energy-efficient windows.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"19\">19<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Increase Your Property Value<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-196 citation-end-196\">Beyond enhancing energy efficiency, upgrading to energy-efficient windows can potentially increase your home&#8217;s value.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"20\">20<\/sup><\/span> Updated windows not only improve curb appeal but could also encourage potential buyers to pay more for a home that won\u2019t require new windows in the near future. Buyers also appreciate knowing their energy bills won\u2019t be unusually high due to old, drafty windows.<\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Live Comfortably<\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"citation-195 citation-end-195\">Installing energy-efficient windows will help eliminate drafty or overheated spaces, ensuring a consistent temperature throughout your home.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"21\">21<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-194 citation-end-194\">Old windows often have cracks in their seals or frames, allowing cold air to seep in during winter and hot air to creep in during warmer months, leading to uncomfortable drafts.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"22\">22<\/sup><\/span> This can also cause your thermostat to inaccurately register a low house temperature, leading to excessive heating in areas that don&#8217;t need it, resulting in overheated spaces. <span class=\"citation-193 citation-end-193\">Energy-efficient windows can also help extend the lifespan of your window treatments, furniture, and floor coverings by reducing fading.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"23\">23<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-192 citation-end-192\">Specialized coatings on energy-efficient windows can block UV rays 90% more effectively than ordinary glass.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"24\">24<\/sup><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Guide to Energy-Efficient Windows<\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>We understand that purchasing energy-efficient replacement windows can feel like a daunting task. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for in quality energy-efficient windows and provide helpful tips and advice to assist you in the decision-making process.<\/p>\n<p>Once you have a clear understanding of the buying process and the right questions to ask, you\u2019ll be prepared to explore your window options. Consider these important tips before making a purchase:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Research and compare window companies and brands<\/b> \u2014 Ensure you are partnering with a well-established, reliable, and reputable window company.<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-191\">Decide what style of windows are best for your home<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-191 citation-end-191\"> \u2014 Most window companies offer a diverse range of window styles to meet individual needs and complement your home&#8217;s unique aesthetic, including double-hung, bow, bay, sliding, awning, casement, and custom-shaped windows.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"25\">25<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-190\">Consider the quality of your replacement windows<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-190 citation-end-190\"> \u2014 Your energy-efficient replacement windows should be custom-made to fit your openings precisely, without the use of expansion pieces or fillers.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"26\">26<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-189\">Understand energy-efficient window ratings and terms<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-189 citation-end-189\"> \u2014 Generally, the more energy-efficient and sturdy a window is, the higher its cost.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"27\">27<\/sup><\/span> <span class=\"citation-188 citation-end-188\">However, the long-term savings you\u2019ll experience throughout the life of your energy-efficient windows may offset the initial investment.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"28\">28<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-187\">Ask about the window warranty<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-187 citation-end-187\"> \u2014 A warranty&#8217;s value is directly tied to the quality of the product it covers and the reliability of the company providing it.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"29\">29<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><b><span class=\"citation-186\">Schedule a consultation to see the windows in person<\/span><\/b><span class=\"citation-186 citation-end-186\"> \u2014 Insist on examining full, working window samples so you can thoroughly inspect the window before it is installed in your home.<sup class=\"superscript\" data-turn-source-index=\"30\">30<\/sup><\/span>\n<div class=\"source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For more detailed information, visit our <b>window buying resource center<\/b> for helpful downloads. Curious about where to purchase energy-efficient replacement windows for your home? Schedule your free, <b>in-home estimate<\/b>, or call us at 1-800-230-8301 for further assistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Energy efficiency is a popular term today, but its true meaning and impact on your window purchase might not be immediately clear. This guide aims to provide all the essential information about energy-efficient windows before you invest in them for your home. &nbsp; How Do Standard Windows and Energy-Efficient Windows Differ? &nbsp; The fundamental design [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-816","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/816","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=816"}],"version-history":[{"count":101,"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/816\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1337,"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/816\/revisions\/1337"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/site.alustell.ru\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=816"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}