Replacing old, drafty windows in your home is a great way to lower energy bills. The right windows will also increase your home value and qualify you for energy saving tax credits.
High-efficiency windows have excellent insulating properties, helping reduce your energy consumption. They also prevent unwanted noise and create a more comfortable living environment.
Material
The material grade of your new window plays a big role in its energy efficiency. Aside from ensuring that your home stays comfortable year-round, high quality windows also help you save on utility bills and qualify you for energy saving tax credits.
To achieve superior performance, energy efficient windows use a dual glass pane design with an inert gas between the two glass panes. This is known as an Insulated Glazing Unit (IGU). Common inert gases used for this purpose include argon and krypton.
Vinyl frames with multi-chambered construction and fusion-welded corners are one of the most energy-efficient frame options available. They are especially effective when paired with Low-E glass packages. Low-E coatings reflect radiant infrared energy, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
Style
Your window style and design play a big role in your energy efficiency. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) assigns a variety of measurements and ratings to residential windows that help consumers make informed decisions about their purchase. Two of the most important ones are U factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
The best replacement windows in Michigan will reduce the amount of heat transferred into your home during the winter, easing the burden on your HVAC system. They will also block UV and infrared rays during the summer, keeping your indoors cool.
The best manufacturers offer extensive product selections, generous warranty coverage, reasonable quotes and excellent customer feedback. JELD-WEN, for example, offers a variety of custom window options and can tailor their products to meet the needs of homeowners in Macomb County and throughout Southeast Michigan.
Energy Star Ratings
Unlike older windows that allow heated or cooled air to escape, newer double- and triple-paned energy efficient windows reduce this heat gain without sacrificing visibility. This means you can enjoy your favorite chair by a window seat without fear of it turning into an overheated sauna.
The ENERGY STAR rating system is designed to identify high-performing windows that provide substantial cost savings when used in homes and buildings. The system is broken down into different climate zones to help homeowners and builders outfit their homes or buildings with the right windows for specific weather conditions.
The ratings on a window include U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmittance and more. A lower U-Factor indicates better insulation while a higher VT allows more natural sunlight into the home, decreasing your need for electrical lighting during the day.
NFRC Certification
The NFRC certification system for windows, doors and skylights provides an energy performance rating based on certified whole-product testing. This compares better than ENERGY STAR ratings which only take glass into account, as the frame and other components also impact ratings such as U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and Visible Transmittance.
The U-factor measures how well the window keeps heat in during winter, and a lower number means less heating is required. SHGC is used to block unwanted solar heat during summer, reducing cooling costs. Visible Transmittance allows more natural light to enter the home, reducing dependence on artificial lighting. Air Leakage is optional and measures how well the window resists letting outside air in.
Choosing vinyl windows that meet local standards and regulations will reduce your utility bills while providing peace of mind. A reputable replacement window company should offer extensive product ranges, comprehensive warranty coverage and reasonable quotes to make the process hassle-free.
Permits
In addition to energy rebates and tax credits, homeowners can also save money by using windows with security features. These include laminated glass and security film, which make it difficult for intruders to break into homes or businesses.
Those interested in installing new windows should register with the city before beginning work. This process requires submitting an application, fee schedule and design.
Reputable window contractors understand local regulations and can help guide homeowners through the permit process. They can also help ensure that all work is done properly and in compliance with state and local regulations. Many also provide waste removal as part of their service, eliminating the hassle of dealing with garbage disposal. This saves time and ensures that old windows are disposed of in a safe and responsible manner.