What You Need to Know about Energy Efficient Windows

People are essentially the opposite of windows. People, we all say, are basically the same on the inside, despite superficial differences of being tall or short, fat or thin, pink or brown. Windows, on the other hand, are often the same in appearance on the outside, but inside lies a vast world of differences. Energy-efficient windows often look no different than the cheapest replacement windows you could buy at a big-box home improvement store.

Beneath the Surface

High-quality replacement windows that also offer great energy efficiency are as close as your local, friendly exterior services contractor. We at  Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windowsoffer several brands of exceptional energy-efficient windows:

  • Pella
  • Andersen
  • Marvin
  • Alside
  • Hayfield

Beneath the surface of today’s virgin vinyl windows (some of the most energy-efficient windows are made with virgin, or new, vinyl) lie some important features

  • The right glass — Andersen Windows, for example, uses PassiveSun® Glass, which allows sunlight to enter and help heat your home
  • The right panes — A single pane of glass is not as energy efficient as triple-pane windows
  • The right core — Behind the virgin vinyl surface, find a core of wood for great insulating value

Material Science

The science and technology of producing a great, energy-efficient window for Minneapolis homes begins with an appreciation of materials. Aluminum is strong but does not insulate well (it conducts heat). Vinyl is not as strong as aluminum but is a great insulator. Wood insulates, has strength, but wears under weather exposure.

The best window manufacturers — names like the brands Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows carries — combine these basic raw materials in ways to provide great strength, lightness, and insulation value.

By the Numbers

Perhaps the easiest way to find energy-efficient windows (other than by calling Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows at (763) 445-4727) is by windows’ National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) numbers on their Energy Performance Label:

  • U-Factor — The window keeps heat from escaping; look for low numbers
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient — The window resists unwanted heat from entering your home; look for low numbers
  • Visible Transmittance — The window lets in plenty of light; look for high numbers
  • Air Leakage — Less leakage means fewer drafts; look for low numbers

When you are ready to consider energy-efficient windows for your Minneapolis home or business, please contact us today at Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows. We would be happy to arrange an onsite appointment to evaluate the efficiency of your home’s current windows.

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