By Gates Dearen
 |
| Photo Credit: nelsonwindow.com |
Wrong! It’s important to assess your home’s
individual needs and to understand the best solutions for energy efficiency, as
well as home security. We have compiled a list of the most important questions
to ask as you choose your replacement windows and doors.
Low-e,
or Low-emissivity, refers to glass panels’ ability to reflect light. Low-emissivity
windows and doors cause heat to be reflected off, rather than allowing it to
collect and “seep through” (be emitted) into the home. The Low-e coating keeps
the heat from being absorbed and emitted, instead reflecting it away from the
glass. This technology is related to the insulation used in spacecraft to keep
heat from accumulating on both reflective surfaces, inside and outside, but
actually the application of the technology is more complicated in windows and
doors because glass has such a high level of emissivity, thus posing the
challenge of maintaining Low-e while letting in light. Manufacturers of
high-quality windows and doors apply
coatings to reflect radiant energy, which helps to keep heat on the same side of the
glass it’s coming from – outside in summer, inside in winter – while allowing light
to pass through. This improves thermal efficiency (insulating properties)
because radiant heat stays where it belongs, outside or inside depending on the
season and the weather.
What is my budget?
While it may be tempting if you are on a tight budget to “go
cheap” when replacing your windows and doors, a better plan may be to choose
the best windows and doors you can afford now for part of your house, and wait
until you can do the same for the rest of the house later. High-quality windows
and doors are an important investment in your home’s appearance, security, and
energy efficiency. As with most purchases, spending a little more on the front
end can reap greater benefits down the road. A windows and doors professional
can help you to determine which should be replaced first and which can wait.
What features are important to me?
The
features you choose are largely a matter of personal taste (unless you have
children, in which case safety is also important). Work with a professional to
decide which features will increase your comfort and your windows’ and doors’
function and durability. Single-hung windows open from the bottom only.
Double-hung windows can open from the top or the bottom. Again, it’s all about
preference. If you want to transform a simple opening into a stunning room
accent, you can choose from a variety of custom shapes for your windows.
When
it comes to entry doors, there are also many options. Maybe you want a standard
solid door with small windows at the top. Or maybe you prefer something a bit
more reflective of your personal style, such as a door with a stained glass
insert or a decorative lockset. Look at your options and find the door that
says “home” to you. Many people prefer to spend a great portion of their budget
on an entry door over other doors and windows in their homes because it’s the
first thing they (and their guests) see upon arriving at their home. Again, it
just depends on what you like.
Patio
doors offer fewer options aesthetically speaking, but do differ in terms of
safety features such as shatter-proof glass and functionality. Do your
homework. Here in Florida
Do the windows and door glass have a Low-e coating?
Low-e,
or Low-emissivity, refers to glass panels’ ability to reflect light. Low-emissivity
windows and doors cause heat to be reflected off, rather than allowing it to
collect and “seep through” (be emitted) into the home. The Low-e coating keeps
the heat from being absorbed and emitted, instead reflecting it away from the
glass. This technology is related to the insulation used in spacecraft to keep
heat from accumulating on both reflective surfaces, inside and outside, but
actually the application of the technology is more complicated in windows and
doors because glass has such a high level of emissivity, thus posing the
challenge of maintaining Low-e while letting in light. Manufacturers of
high-quality windows and doors apply
coatings to reflect radiant energy, which helps to keep heat on the same side of the
glass it’s coming from – outside in summer, inside in winter – while allowing light
to pass through. This improves thermal efficiency (insulating properties)
because radiant heat stays where it belongs, outside or inside depending on the
season and the weather.
What
energy-efficiency ratings do these windows and doors have?
There are several standards set by the industry that let you
know your windows and doors will work hard to save energy (and money in
cooling/heating costs). The one you’re probably most familiar with is the
Energy Star rating. In order to carry the familiar symbol (shown below), windows and doors must be, at a minimum, 15% more energy
efficient than those without the designation. Most doors and windows have a
sticker that shows their actual energy efficiency. If not, ask. Any reputable
window and door professional will readily share this information with you.
Another performance standard is the National Fenestration
Rating Council (NFRC) Certification. This is a non-profit group that, as stated
in their website, “empowers consumers who are in the market for energy
efficient windows, doors, and skylights. When you see the NFRC label on these
products, this is your assurance that it’s going to perform the way it’s
advertised to perform.” (www.nfrc.org)
How can new windows
and doors make my home more secure?
Unless you have recently updated
your windows and doors you’ll find that security options have improved. When thinking
about security, think beyond the doors and windows themselves. Look for
fire-rated doorframes and window frames, high-performance hinges, secure and
weather-resistant thresholds and astragals, and of course high-quality
locksets. Look for ease of use in window locks. Most new high-quality windows
have simple slide or flip locks. The same is true for patio doors; while the
older types may not have been easy to secure, the new ones are.
As for the doors and windows themselves,
look for impact ratings, as well as long-term warranties. It’s a good idea here
in Florida to choose doors and windows that
will stand up against severe weather. Security isn’t just about keeping out
human intruders. There are plenty of items in your yard that you wouldn’t want
in your house if the wind picked them up and tossed them!
Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and
Doors in
Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard Walden
have been serving the building products industry in Florida for
over 25 years. We know the products, the industry, the market and
what adds great value to a home. Our
approach is a little different. We strive to
match the homeowner with the right windows for their home
and budget. Home improvements can be a hassle. We’re here to make life easier with
first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; strong
warranties and expert, award-winning installers that provide excellent service
while respecting your home as if it were their own.
