The Mile-High City is known for its 300 sunny days, thriving arts scene, and ski slope-adjacent location. It also commits to sustainability.
Large buildings contribute 57 percent of Denver’s greenhouse gas emissions. The Energize Denver program now requires large building owners to assess and report energy performance.
Purchasing energy-efficient windows is a great way to fulfill these demands. Here are tips for choosing the right windows.
Type of Window
Homeowners often wonder, “What kind of window is the most energy efficient?” Unfortunately, many get their answers from shady salespeople at big box stores who are just trying to lure them in with a low price that’s “too good to be true.”
When choosing the best windows for your home, there are a few factors to consider. First, homeowners should note the amount of sunlight and fresh air they prefer in their home’s interior and privacy and window covering options.
Another essential factor to consider is the area’s climate. Cold climates can have high surface temperature fluctuations from night to day, leading to higher energy costs. Therefore, homeowners should choose windows certified as ENERGY STAR with a lower U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient rating. It will help reduce their energy bills and keep their home comfortable.
Frame Material
The suitable frame material can make a significant difference in your energy efficiency. Fiberglass is an excellent home choice because it’s robust, low-maintenance, and can withstand severe weather. It’s also twice as impact-resistant as vinyl and can resist bending or breaking under extreme pressure, such as that created by hail.
Another essential factor to consider is the window insulation. While modern Denver windows significantly improve energy efficiency, the correct type of insulation can enhance your home’s efficiency even more. Prioritize insulated glass and frames with Low-E coatings and double or triple-pane construction. These factors will ensure your replacement windows can withstand Denver’s diverse climate, maintaining their attractive appearance over time and reducing energy costs.
Additional Features
Energy efficiency is key in a climate like Denver’s, which can experience temperature shifts of 50+ degrees daily. Upgrading your home with energy-efficient windows can help you save money and reduce drafts and uncomfortable temperatures.
Energy-efficient windows are carefully designed and constructed with insulation, performance, and aesthetics in mind. Some of the most essential features to consider are:
The type of frame material you choose significantly impacts your window’s energy performance. Vinyl windows offer a cost-effective solution, while fiberglass and wood frames provide superior durability and thermal performance. Wood-clad windows offer an appealing appearance with a hardwood interior sealed with vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass for extra protection against weather elements for homeowners looking for a blend of efficiency and aesthetics.
Other features that contribute to energy efficiency include low-e coatings and a favorable U-factor. Look for these ratings on the NFRC label to compare and select options with the highest efficiency levels.
Installation Method
In the mile-high city, where temperatures can swing 50+ degrees daily, making your home energy efficient is a top priority. One of the best ways to do that is by installing new windows. New double-pane windows will keep heat inside your house during the winter and out in the summer, reducing your energy bills significantly.
Look for NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) certification and energy ratings when shopping for replacement windows. A window’s U-factor measures its ability to prevent heat from escaping, and its R-factor indicates its insulating value.
To make your home even more energy-efficient, opt for windows that glide instead of requiring a crank to open and close.