Windows serve several serious purposes in a home. They control air and sunlight, boost energy efficiency, and offer privacy. They also make an important escape passage in emergency situations.
Many homeowners opt for energy-efficient windows that minimize heat transfer, saving them money on their utility bills. They are also available in a variety of styles to suit any home’s style.
Energy Star Certification
Energy Star certification identifies efficient products, buildings, homes, and commercial properties. These properties reduce their energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and minimize their environmental impact. In addition, they may qualify for tax credits.
ENERGY STAR ratings are used to assess the energy efficiency of windows, doors, and skylights. In 2023, the EPA introduced new requirements for residential windows and doors. These changes were meant to drive innovation in the window industry and promote a more energy-efficient future.
To be ENERGY STAR certified, a window must have an NFRC label and meet certain criteria. The NFRC provides objective 3rd-party ratings for energy performance. To find the right window for your home, use the ENERGY STAR Product Finder. This searchable database helps you compare different window styles and options by brand, manufacturer, and climate zone. You can also check the U-factor and SHGC of a window to make sure it meets the ENERGY STAR criteria. These specifications are crucial for calculating your home’s energy savings.
Window Maintenance
While window maintenance is a homeowner’s responsibility, some issues require professional intervention. These include problems like persistent leaks and condensation that can be difficult to detect and fix.
Regular inspections of windows can identify any potential problems and allow homeowners to address them quickly. This helps homeowners save energy, protect their investment, and improve the safety and comfort of home and building occupants.
Window maintenance includes frequent cleaning to remove dust, dirt, and pollen. It also involves lubricating moving parts on the frames, such as hinges, handles, and locks, to ensure smooth operation. It is also important to check the weatherstripping to ensure that it remains intact.
Other window maintenance tasks include removing screens, checking for holes, rips, and tears, and inspecting the spline that holds the screen in place. It is also important to regularly paint the exterior of a window frame to prevent rot and protect it from the elements.
Window Tinting
The main purpose of window tint is to reduce the amount of solar energy that enters a vehicle or building, which helps to keep the interior temperature lower. This can save on energy costs and reduce glare, both of which are problems that affect driving safety.
Window tinting also protects occupants from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin damage and fade furniture, carpeting, and artwork. High-quality film blocks up to 99% of UV rays, providing crucial protection for both people and property.
Window tinting also enhances a vehicle’s aesthetic by adding a sleek, modern look that can be customized in a variety of shades and tint levels. It can also add privacy by making it more difficult for outsiders to see into a building or vehicle. Window tinting is less invasive than replacing windows and can be done on an existing frame. It’s also a much cheaper option than other home improvements, such as adding curtains or blinds.
Window Upgrades
Window upgrades can improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance requirements and increase resale values. However, it is important to consider the financial implications of any upgrade and ensure that it meets your home’s needs. Investing in high-quality products will ultimately save you money over time through lower energy bills and improved resale value.
In many cases, the best option is to replace existing windows with new ENERGY STAR certified models. These windows offer better insulation, low-E coatings, and are designed to minimize heat transfer. Additionally, they may contain a counterweight system that helps prevent air leaks. While repair kits and caulking can improve a window’s performance, they cannot match the benefits of a replacement.
Replacement windows are available in both full frame and pocket installations. A full-frame installation requires the removal of the entire existing window while a pocket install allows you to keep the original frame. Both types of replacement windows offer a variety of style and design options that can match your home’s aesthetic.