When it comes to new window installation in Texas, you’re likely very concerned about energy efficiency. In particular, you’ll want to pay attention to the window’s U-Factor. This is a measurement of how well the window insulates. While it can take any value, for windows, it generally ranges from 0.20 to 1.20, says Energy. gov. The lower the U-Factor is, the better the window will insulate your home.
Put another way, U-Factors measure the rate of heat transfer. Windows that meet these recommendations will be better able to keep heat out on hot days and in on cooler days. The U-factor of your windows will also be impacted by the frame material, low-E coatings, and glazing.
In the same vein, you’ll also want to look at the window’s solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), which measures the amount of solar energy that can be transmitted through the window. In other words, it’s an indication of how well the window can block heat generated by sunlight. The lower the SHGC is, the less solar heat the window can transmit. The SHGC is a more critical factor in windows in warmer climates like Texas. You can achieve an even lower SHGC by combining low-E coatings, tints, and glazing.
Importance of Energy-Efficient Windows for Your Texas Home
The U-factor of your window will directly impact the energy efficiency of your home. Windows with lower U-factors give better insulation while reducing the heat transference between the indoors and the outdoors. For example, in hotter months, less heat can be gained from the exterior. In cooler months, less heat can be lost from the interior. With these factors in play, your home needs less energy to heat and cool your living spaces, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.
With up to 30 percent of your home’s heated or cooled air being lost through your windows, the importance of U-Factor can’t be ignored. Thermal transfer happens when there is a temperature difference between outdoors and indoors. The bigger the difference, the higher the heat transmission rate.
It’s no secret that Texas summers are hot and humid, but even the winter months can see temps plummet – even close to freezing. Installing energy-efficient windows is key to lowering your energy consumption while reducing your home’s carbon footprint.
Why is that? Well, during warm months, energy-efficient windows keep the cool air inside, and the hot air outside. After all, you spend a lot of money to condition your air. You don’t want to lose it through your windows! With energy-efficient windows in place, you can ensure more consistent, comfortable temperatures inside. And if you decide to use Low-E reflective coatings on your windows, this microscopic layer further reduces how much solar heat enters the home (in some cases by up to 70 percent).
There’s one more benefit to installing energy-efficient windows in your Texas home: the lower the heat transfer, the less strain will be put on your HVAC system to maintain consistent temperatures. Not only do you save on your utility bills, you do not have to face prematurely replacing your HVAC system to the tune of thousands of dollars.
Contact Amazing Exteriors for Energy Efficient Replacement Windows
We understand the U-Factors and SHGC measurements can seem a bit confusing at first. But don’t worry: our window replacement team in Texas would be happy to explain these and other ratings. Just contact us or fill out our online form for a free consultation and quote on our quality Infinity by Marvin windows.
