How to Pick the Best Windows for Your Commercial Building

 

Replacing the windows in your commercial property is a costly capital investment, but new windows can increase the building’s value, improve its overall energy efficiency and enhance its appearance. If you pick windows built by a well-known manufacturer like Anderson, Pella, Alside or Marvin, you’ll know you’re getting a quality product and worry-free access to service and parts. To help you choose the best windows for your building, you should also consider:

Frame Material

The frame material affects the long-term durability of your windows, how much maintenance they’ll require and whether they’ll develop any performance-related issues. The two types of windows favored for commercial properties here in the Twin Cities are:

  • Solid vinyl windows are lightweight and low maintenance. Vinyl doesn’t require painting, and it’s available in a range of colors.
  • Aluminum units feature a hardwood core protected by metal cladding on the outside, with wood visible on the inside. They’re a good option if you want a durable, weather-resistant finish in a color of your choosing on the exterior, but prefer the high-end look of wood on the building’s interior.

Performance Factors

When you’re comparing windows, you’ll want to pay attention to the following key factors that directly affect performance:

  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) between 0.35 and 0.60 so solar heat gets transmitted in through the windows to help offset winter energy use.
  • U-factor of 0.25 or less, which provides a lower rate of heat flow through the window assembly.
  • Air leakage rating (AL) of 0.30 or lower so there’s less air passing through tiny gaps and cracks in the window assembly.
  • passive low-E coating that allows some short-wave solar energy in through the window to help heat the building, and reflects long-wave heat energy back inside so it’s not lost through the glass.
  • Double- or triple-pane Argon-filled windows provide higher thermal efficiency, and they also limit sound transfer.

Installation Quality

Regardless of the specific type of window you choose, you need an installer who can size the windows correctly, prepare the openings properly, insulate well around the frames and do top-quality finish work. To ensure a successful project, only take bids from Twin Cities window and roofing contractors who are manufacturer-certified, licensed, insured and have a verified history of workmanship and customer service excellence.

For expert help choosing windows for your commercial building, contact Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows, your certified window and roofing contractors in the Twin Cities.[su_button url=”https://www.midwestplus.com/blog/roofing/3-smart-home-improvements-to-make-now/” background=”#3281d5″ size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”0″]Read:3 Smart Home Improvements to Make NOW [/su_button]

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