Things to Consider When Shopping for Southeast Windows

Tackling window replacement is always a good idea, especially if your current windows are already getting near the end of their life span and showing signs of damage and inefficiency. Before you begin this project, however, know that you’ll be combing through numerous options. Choosing one of a specific style and frame material can affect years of energy costs and maintenance. Once you’ve found the window you like, be sure to examine its energy label. This is vital when comparing other windows.

Here are things to consider when making your replacement window selection.

Potential Savings From New Windows

Replacing your old windows with new ones can help you save money on heating and cooling costs. Keep in mind, however, that the savings you can get depend on numerous factors. These include the local climate, the existing trees that provide shade around your home, the size of your home and the number of window openings you have, and the levels of insulation your home has.

Also, consider the upfront costs that come with the new windows. These will be dependent on the materials and features you choose as well as the cost of installation. At this point, you should familiarize yourself with the various available options.

Wide Selection of Window Options

You need to understand these features when making a decision:

• Materials – A wide array of frame materials are available, each offering varying levels of durability, insulation and maintenance for your windows. Wood, vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum and composite are the most common.
• Style – When choosing the window style, see to it that it is a perfect fit for your home’s architecture. Modern aesthetics call for sleek, narrow frames, which are apparent in sliding windows. To adhere to the traditional look, you can’t go wrong with double-hung windows.
• Glazing – Expect replacement window units to feature at least two panes of glass. These are better than single-pane windows, especially in terms of providing insulation.
• Glass technologies – You can also find glazing that offers not just better insulation, but also enhanced condensation resistance and light quality. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass, for instance, utilizes special coatings to help limit heat transfer.
• Maintenance – Thanks to innovations in window manufacturing, you can find windows that feature mechanisms that allow you to easily care and maintain them. For example, double-hung windows have tilt-in sashes, eliminating the need to step outside and clean the exterior.

Window Labels

After making your selection, be sure that the windows help contribute to your home’s overall energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows should have adequate insulation to prevent heat transfer; otherwise, your home may lose heat during the winter and gain heat during the summer.

Keep in mind that no two homes are exactly alike so choosing replacement windows is subject to different requirements. Checking the labels on the windows helps you determine if they are well-suited for the climate in your area.

When you shop for windows, you’ll notice two labels: one from ENERGY STAR® and the other from the National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC). The former indicates that the window unit has met strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for your region.

The latter, meanwhile, contains information about the window’s energy performance. It is divided into categories, namely:

• U-Factor – This measures a window’s capability to prevent heat loss. 
• Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) – This measures the amount of heat gained from sunlight.
• Air leakage (AL) – This measures the rate in which air enters through your windows.
• Visible transmittance (VT) – This measures the amount of natural light a window lets in.

For your window replacement needs, turn to Renewal by Andersen® of Nashville. We are your leading provider of replacement windows and doors in the area. With our pros putting a premium on flawless installation work, you can enjoy the benefits of having newly installed windows, from better curb appeal to enhanced energy efficiency and comfort all year round.

Call us today at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form for your virtual consultation. We serve residents of Nashville, TN, and the surrounding communities.