3 Qualities of a Well-Designed Window

Windows need to be more than just beautiful. They also need to protect your home from the elements while allowing ventilation and natural light into your home. In this blog, California Energy Consultant Service discusses the qualities that you should find in well-designed windows.

Energy Efficiency

Energy costs are ever on the rise, which makes energy efficiency an important consideration when buying new windows. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that an average home spends about 48% of its energy consumption on heating and cooling. Choosing ENERGY STAR® replacement windows can potentially cut down as much as 25% of your annual energy consumption.

How do energy-efficient windows help you save on energy? Windows are part of your home’s energy envelope, which also includes the attic, entry doors and exterior walls. If properly insulated, the energy envelope prevents heat transfer between indoor and outdoor spaces, resulting in minimal heat loss during winter and likewise minimal heat gain in summer. Your window replacement should have double or triple-pane glass and insulated frames.

Low Maintenance 

Traditional wood windows look beautiful, but have high maintenance requirements. To protect them from the effects of moisture and temperature changes, you must regularly scrape and repair (or restain) the window frames. You can also choose from a variety of different frame materials such as composite and vinyl. Both have factory-applied colors, repel dirt and dust and are very easy to clean. Certain window styles even have removable, reach-around or tiltable sashes for easy and safe cleaning.

Durable Hardware

Window hardware is a small yet often overlooked component. Choose the best hardware that your remodeling budget will allow. You’ll be counting on hardware to open, close and lock your windows, and getting the best window hardware can be considered a good investment. Typical window hardware is made from rolled sheet brass. If available, choose cast brass hardware, as it is much stronger and lasts longer.

California Energy Consultant Service is your leading provider of residential window replacement services. Give us a call at (916) 239-7779 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Rancho Cordova and Sacramento, CA.