How Do I Choose the Most Energy Efficient Windows?

Energy efficient windows are a great investment in any home. But which ones are best for you and your home’s needs?

Here at Handyman Connection of Lexington-Nicholasville, we offer a number of general handyman services and can help you install whichever windows you choose.

But while you’re window shopping, here are a few things to look for:

What should I look for when shopping for energy-efficient windows?

1. ENERGY STAR Certification

You’ve probably seen the blue ENERGY STAR symbol on various appliances and building materials throughout your home.

ENERGY STAR-certified windows have performance ratings that meet the EPA’s strict guidelines for energy efficiency. Basically, this means they’ll protect your home from losing warm or cool air throughout the year so you won’t have to spend more on heating and cooling.

2. NFRC Labels and Performance Ratings

NFRC ratings can help you compare different energy efficient windows to find the right ones for your home. 

The National Fenestration Rating Council is an organization that certifies and tests the energy efficiency of doors and windows. 

For windows, look for these factors:: 

• The U-Factor: This is how well a window keeps heat inside your home (low numbers are better)
• The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: How well a window keeps the sun’s heat out of your home (higher numbers are fine for northern climates, while low numbers are better for southern climates with intense summer sunlight; for Kentucky, look for a SHGC of ≤ 0.40)
• Visible Transmittance: How much natural light a window lets in (high numbers are better)
• Air Leakage: How much air a window may let in (low numbers are better)

EfficientWindows.org offers a great breakdown of these factors for the entire state of Kentucky.

3. Window Frame Materials

Window frames play a big role in your windows’ energy efficiency. 

The most efficient windows typically have frames made with non-metal components like insulated vinyl, composite or wood. These tend to be better at reducing thermal transfer than aluminum or other metal frames.

Fiberglass window frames are usually the best choice – but if you’re not sure which frames will work best for your existing window openings, a general handyman service can help you find the right solution for your home.

4. Number of Panes

Single-, double- or triple-paned windows refers to the number of layers of glass in a window.

The more panes in the window, the more energy-efficient it will be. 

As a bonus, higher-paned windows will also provide more soundproofing for your home, which is great if you live on or near a busy street.

Can I make my existing windows more energy efficient?

Yes! There are some simple ways to improve your existing windows’ energy efficiency if you don’t feel like replacing them.

Call Handyman Connection of Lexington-Nicholasville to help you:

• Caulk and add weather stripping around windows
• Add curtains, coverings and coatings over your old windows
• Add storm windows and panels 
• Install overhangs or exterior blinds 

Call Handyman Connection of Lexington-Nicholasville for Expert Window Installation and Maintenance

We offer a wide variety of maintenance and installation services, and can help you with everything from installing new windows to renovating your kitchen. Call