Purchasing and installing quality windows in one's home is about more than just aesthetics. When a homeowner is wise in selecting the best window type for their home, they will ultimately save a substantial amount of money in energy costs.

Considerations for Buying New Windows

When considering the installation of new windows in a home, one should take the time to research the many varieties of windows available for purchase. The homeowner or contractor should consider several aspects, such as the climate of the home's location and the whole-house design, in order to choose the most suitable windows for the architecture at hand. Following, are some details to be considered when shopping for new windows.

The framework of a window is an important factor in improving the thermal resistance of a home. Framework options for windows include vinyl, wood, fiberglass, metal and composite materials. Below, the positive and negative aspects of each are outlined.

Metal - Although metal and aluminum window frames tend to conduct heat rapidly, they do have their perks, being very strong and light. The issue of heat conduction created by the metal frames can be corrected by a thermal break, or insulation strip being installed between the window frame and sash.

Wood - The tried and true wooden window frames are very stable, although they do tend to expand and contract secondarily to weather conditions. This can make for window framing that requires frequent maintenance - unless cladded with aluminum or vinyl.

Composite - Composite window frames are very similar to wooden frames, however are more resistant than wood to moisture and decay. Composites also have the same or better thermal properties than wood.

Fiberglass - Fiberglass window frames are equipped with air gaps that can be filled with insulation, giving them exceptional thermal resistance.

Vinyl - When it comes to thermal resistance, vinyl window frames are similar to fiberglass, having the hollow gaps that can be filled with insulation. A superior quality to vinyl frames when comparing to the other options is its minimal maintenance.

Once the framework is decided upon, one must choose the type of glass and/or window glazing to be used on the building's new windows. Depending on the windows orientations and the design of the home, some may choose different glazing for different windows, in order to provide optimal energy efficiency. Glazing or glass options for windows are outlined below.

Insulated - Insulated window glazing offers superior blockage of heat from the sun, and also provides shading at times when the sun would shine directly through the window.

Heat Absorbing Tints - Tints can be used to change the color of the window glass, thus absorbing incoming solar radiation.

Low-Emissivity Coatings - Also known as a Low-E coatings, these window glazing help to control heat transfer. Although the initial purchase cost of these windows is greater than the other options, Low-E coatings can reduce energy costs by as much as 30%-50%.

Window Draperies - Depending on the fabric selected for draperies, these window treatments for the house can potentially provide both thermal resistance for the warmer months and prevent heat loss on colder days.

Other "Low-Tech" Window Solutions for Optimal Energy Efficiency - Homeowners must remember that there are also some less costly measures that can be taken with their windows in attempt to minimize energy costs.

Overhangs - Overhangs such as window awnings can help to prevent excessive heat gain in the home in the summer time.

Blinds - Window blinds, either vertical or horizontal, are effective at reducing summer heat from entering the home. They will, however, do nothing for energy efficiency when considering heat loss in the colder months.

More Than "Just Window Shopping"

The average homeowner can potentially save a considerable amount of money on future energy costs if they put the time and effort into researching all of their options. The purchase of windows may seem like a simple decision, but the additional time and "energy" put into the purchasing process, can save a homeowner financial energy costs that can last them a lifetime.