Replacement Windows: Upgrade Your Energy Efficiency
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
You've opened your heating bill to find a monstrously high monthly charge one too many times. Rather than becoming the miser who passes out sweaters to grumbling visitors, why not try upgrading to energy-efficient windows?
Replacement windows aren't free, but you'll recoup the costs in utility savings. What's more, your replacement windows just might make your house look better too.
Here's what you need to about replacement windows, before you buy.
Look for the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) too, another indicator of the window's ability to block heat transfer. A low SHGC means the window minimizes heat gain from the sun (if you're shopping during the winter, don't forget that come summer, you might want things a little less toasty).
Replacement windows are a simple move, but don't let the simplicity fool you. The rewards in terms of increased energy efficiency, improved aesthetics, and so much more are plenty rich.
About the Author
Dawn West B.A. holds a B.A. in English from Harvard University and teaches writing at Oregon State University.
Replacement windows aren't free, but you'll recoup the costs in utility savings. What's more, your replacement windows just might make your house look better too.
Here's what you need to about replacement windows, before you buy.
If You Have Old Windows, You're in for a Surprise
Windows have come a long way in recent years. Replacement windows aren't just less drafty. They block dangerous UV rays, reduce noise, and look great. And of course they also prevent the loss of warm or cool air, either way you want it. So prepare for some pleasant surprises.Replacement Windows Versus Replacement Windows and Frames
Your least expensive option is to buy new energy-efficient windows that fit inside your current window frames. But by removing the entire window, frame and all, and putting in a new replacement frame and a new replacement window will cost you more, you'll reap the additional benefits in terms of energy savings.Energy Star Ratings
Any replacement window worth its cost will feature an energy star label touting its energy efficiency. Look for that for starters. But once the window has jumped that hurdle, look for something called a U-value--the lower the U-value, the better the window is at keeping warmth inside.Look for the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) too, another indicator of the window's ability to block heat transfer. A low SHGC means the window minimizes heat gain from the sun (if you're shopping during the winter, don't forget that come summer, you might want things a little less toasty).
Replacement windows are a simple move, but don't let the simplicity fool you. The rewards in terms of increased energy efficiency, improved aesthetics, and so much more are plenty rich.
About the Author
Dawn West B.A. holds a B.A. in English from Harvard University and teaches writing at Oregon State University.
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