Never compare windows based on price alone. The "U" factor and "SHGC" (solar heat gain coefficient) are the primary means to compare windows.
The U-factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping.
The rate of heat loss is indicated in terms of the U-factor of a
window assembly. U-factor ratings generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. The lower the U-factor, the greater a window''s
resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. The
U-factor is included in the energy performance rating (label) offered by
the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Single-pane glass starts at a U-factor of 1.1. Achieving a U-factor of between 0.40 and
0.20 requires advanced window features, including low-e glass, double-pane
glass, Argon-gas filling between the panes, and an insulating spacer
between the panes.
The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a window blocks
heat from sunlight. The SHGC is the fraction of the heat from the sun
that enters through a window. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0
and 1. The lower a window''s SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits. A special new low-e coating blocks most solar heat, while
admitting most visible light. This innovation is being widely employed in the South where air conditioning is a major
expense.
Many windows that you see advertised with a low flat rate installation price have a high "U" factor
and "SGHC" and will not meet the Energy Star Rating. To get windows that
are Energy Star rated will cost your more as an "upgrade".
AAA Remodeling, Inc. is proud to offer Simonton Brand Vinyl Replacement Windows to it's customers. We install only Energy Star Certified windows. Our standard Double Hung installed window is a double pane insulated vinyl replacement windows. They include Low E Softcoat (prosolar);Argon gas filled; Double glazed glass package.
The U-factor is 31and the SHGC is .27
AAA Remodeling is a Certified "Preferred Installer" of Simonton Replacement Windows.
New windows not only make a home more attractive and comfortable, but also save you money on heating bills, cooling bills, and maintenance expense. Replacement window benefits Insulation efficiency. Approximately half of all home cooling and heating energy losses occur through windows. Old windows are the worst culprits because they have low insulation efficiency and often allow drafts to enter the home. Fortunately, recent advancements in materials and design have made windows much more effective in keeping the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. In fact, according to some sources, current windows are as much as four times more efficient than windows manufactured just 15 years ago. Thus, installing replacement windows can greatly reduce your energy bills.
Attractiveness of design
Replacement windows are available in a variety of types, designs, and colors to accent any home.
Maintenance.
Old wood windows require regular maintenance, including painting, stripping, and caulking, every couple of years to keep them looking good and performing well. Many homeowners who are fed up with maintenance headaches choose low-maintenance replacement windows.
Security.
Some older windows are easily forced and offer an easy target for potential intruders. The construction and design of many modern windows provide a substantial deterrent.
Common types of windows
Wood.
Wood is the traditional material used for windows. Wood windows can be elegant and attractive, and are available in a wide variety of designs. The price varies greatly, depending on quality and design. Wood can be stained or painted to match the decor of the house. However, wood absorbs water, and if neglected, it can rot or deteriorate. To keep wood looking its best, regular maintenance is required.
Vinyl.
Vinyl windows never require painting and are virtually maintenance free. Vinyl windows provide good insulation, are cost effective, and are available in a large selection of designs and colors. High-quality vinyl windows offer some of the best insulation available.
Other factors to consider
Double-pane glass. Double-pane windows are superior to, but more expensive than, single-pane windows. Double-pane windows incorporate two parallel sheets of glass with an insulating dead air space between. Because of the extra pane, and more importantly, the space between the panes, double-pane windows greatly reduce the amount of heat transferred through the window. Additionally, to make double-pane windows even more efficient, the space between the panes is often sealed and filled with an inert gas, such as argon.
Special coatings
A variety of special coatings can be applied to the glass pane during manufacturing to further reduce the amount of heat transferred through the glass. Low-emissivity glass (or Low-E glass, in industry jargon) is designed to reflect infrared heat back in the direction it came from. In the summer, it keeps the infrared heat out. In the winter, it keeps the infrared heat in.
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