By Gates Dearen
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| Crystal Clear app energy star (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
As far as energy savings go, windows and doors are the "weak
link" in the energy efficiency chain. It is estimated that as much as 30% of heat loss
is due to inefficient doors and windows. Choosing the right energy saving
windows and doors has always forced customers to balance aesthetics, ease of maintenance,
energy efficiency and budgetary considerations. The good news today is that there
are many affordably priced energy efficient windows and doors in a variety of
construction technologies.
New,
Exciting and a Little Expensive.
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| Bright Ideas - Day 263 of Project 365 (Photo credit: purplemattfish) |
In one of my recent articles, I talked about new glass construction methods. Read my article, "ASK ABOUT GLASS,” if you want the details. The bottom line is that today’s glass is much more energy efficient than it was just 20 years ago. New construction methods have also helped improved energy efficiency and brought about the creation of new hybrid windows. One of the most exciting additions to windows is what is called smart windows. These windows allow a person to go from clear to opaque or translucent with the flick of a switch or slide of a dial. These windows will be primarily used for commercial buildings and could therefore save businesses a lot of money. Currently this technology is in its infancy. However, like all technologies, as it reaches wide spread adoption over time, its price will come down.
What Makes a Window or Door Green?
I thought it would be important for you to have some guidelines
as to what makes a product green. A Window or door can be very energy efficient
but not considered a green product. This does not make it a bad product. For some
applications, a high-energy efficiency window that does not meet all green standards
may still be the best product for the job. Remember most consumers have to balance
their needs for aesthetics, energy efficiency and budget. For many being green is
icing on the cake. Having said that, here are six criteria that can be used as a
guide to help you choose green:
- What kind of materials is used in the manufacture of the windows and doors and what is the source of these materials?
- Can the windows and doors be produced from recyclable material or renewable materials?
- What is the environmental impact of collecting these materials for the manufacturing process?
- How are the windows and doors actually manufactured?
- How much ongoing maintenance is required and does it have an environmental impact?
- What energy savings do the windows and doors provide when they are completed and installed properly? See our website for Energy and tax Saving Features.
How Can I Compare
Green Windows and Doors?
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| Ocotober 17th, 2009: Moosicorn Dried In (Photo credit: Moosicorn) |
- Price Installed
- Energy Rating
- Material Used
- Color Choices
- Aesthetics
- Warranty
On top of that, I like to ask a specific list of questions
to any windows and door vendor or manufacturer to make sure I understand the
big picture and exactly what I am getting. Always ask these ten questions when
purchasing windows or doors.
My Top 10 Questions for Vendors
- Are the materials recycled or renewable?
- Is the manufacturing process sustainable?
- What is the Energy Star rating of the window or door?
- Is there an energy rebate on or tax saving on this product?
- Are they a member of the US Green Building Council?
- Does the manufacturer have the Lead-Safe seal from the EPA?
- Does the installation follow environmentally friendly practices?
- How long have you been installing windows or doors?
- Can you get references from customers who have already had the windows installed?
- What is the warranty? (10 years, 20 years, Lifetime?)
Are Green Windows
Better Than Non-Green Windows?
I often am asked the question, “Are green windows better than
non-green windows?” For me there is no simple
answer. Instead, my response usually centers
on the customer’s needs. If their primary
need is to be "totally green," then the answer is yes. However if their need is a combination of price,
aesthetics, energy efficiency, warranty and green choices, they have to decide what
is the most important criteria to them because ultimately it’s their home and they
will be living with their choice for some time to come.
Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and
Door in
Jacksonville Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard
Walden have been serving the building products industry in
Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the
market and what adds great value to a home. Their approach is a
little different. They're simply looking to match the home owner with
the right windows for their home and budget. Home improvements are enough of a hassle ―
they’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products,
affordable prices, installers that know best practices and who
have respect for your home.
