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What to Look for in Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows

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East coast remodeling
What to Look for in Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows

Understanding Window Performance Ratings:

To buy a good window, you do not need to spend more; you need to research better. If you are an engineer, then this information will undoubtedly speak to you. If you are not an engineer, then let me encourage you to read on. Here you will find a clear explanation of ratings as they relate to performance. Lack of research will almost ensure a horrible decision. The proper research will show you the truth.

Energy-Efficient Windows:

The best products have high energy performance ratings and are very energy efficient. When evaluating replacement windows, we recommend that you look at four ratings in particular. Then we strongly suggest looking at who certifies the product and ratings and why the AAMA certification is so important.

U-Factor

Heat Flow (through a window) is what the U-Value represents. The lower this number is then, the better it will block heat flow. In Virginia Beach, Va, we look for a U Factor of .30 or lower. Air infiltration is a separate issue and is addressed in the Air Infiltration Rating section below.

SHGC or Solar Heat Gain Co-efficiency

Solar Heat Gain Co-efficiency measures the transmitting of solar heat. If the SHGC value is higher, then more solar heat is being transmitted through the window glass. For colder climates, a higher SHGC is desirable and for warmer a lower number is what you want. In the Tidewater area of Virginia, we recommend a U Factor between .20 and .30

Design Pressure or DP Rating

The DP rating of a window can have several variables, and so as not to get confusing, we will keep it simple here. The DP test measures the strength of the product against hurricane-force winds and water penetration on both sides of a window. We prefer a DP rating of 50 or higher, but in some cases, a DP-35 will do as long as the window is AAMA Gold Label Certified. In most cases, you should not consider the window if it does not have a gold label.

AIR

Air loss occurs around our window frames and doors, so it makes sense that the more airtight the window is, the better it will insulate. This is a critical rating. Air leakage factors will make or break any window; no Matter how well the glass performs or how strong the frame is, do not overlook this critical value. The more airtight the window is, the lower the Air Leakage number will be. A.10 Air rating (or lower) should be what you want for good energy savings windows.

AAMA Gold Label

Window companies that make commercial windows must have their products certified for building code. Many residential windows are not AAMA certified, although they should be. When a window is AAMA gold label certified, you can be confident that the test results are accurate, that the window will maintain its integrity and that the AAMA will send independent inspectors to each manufacturer, unannounced and twice per year to ensure that the window that was tested is the same as the window that will go into your home.

Manufacturers go to great lengths to have their window companies Virginia beach product tested (by an AAMA approved facility) and Gold Label certified by the AAMA. Always be sure to double-check, as some manufacturers and salespeople will try to mislead you. You will find the AAMA Gold Label in the frame cavity of any AAMA Gold Label certified window.

Window cost (replacement)

Custom windows will typically start for the average Window World type of product with exterior wrap and Energy efficient glass. You will find higher window companies Virginia beach replacement costs or window prices for windows with a lower Air Infiltration Rating.

Call us now:  (757) 422-1665

 
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