When replacing windows in your home, be sure to keep potential energy savings at the top of your list of things to consider. Now is an excellent time to take advantage of newer technologies that can help keep your home more comfortable while spending less on heating and cooling, especially if you live in Ontario. The 2018 Ontario government window rebate program allows homeowners to receive a rebate of up to $500 per window, to a maximum rebate of $5000 for the entire project.
Terms to know when shopping for high performance windows
Glazing –Glazing refers to the glass that goes into your windows. Along with the frame, glazing plays a big part in promoting your home’s energy efficiency. In fact, according to www.green-buildings.com, glazing options can contribute up to 20% of a building’s ability to remain cool.
U-Factor –The window’s ability to insulate, measured via the rate at which it transfers heat. U-Factor values usually range between 0.25 to 1.25.
SHGC –Solar heat gain coefficient is the ability to control solar heat gain through the glazing. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits. This rating is expressed as a number between 0 and 1.
VLT –Visible Light Transmittance is the amount of visible light that passes through the glazing.
Source: Buildings.com
Four glazing technologies that help save on heating and cooling costs
Double and Triple Glazing
Double and triple glazing are probably the most widely known options for improving energy efficiency in a window. Spacing and sealing the window panes creates an insulated window unit with both a reduced U-Factor and SHGC.
Gas Fills
Gas fills are used in tandem with double and triple glazing. The space between each panel of glass is filled with an inert gas to provide additional resistance to heat flow. Argon and Krypton are the most commonly used gases used in high performance windows.
Tinting
Tints on high performance windows are used to absorb heat. These tins help to reduce SHGC by absorbing some of the radiant heat.
Low-E Coatings
Low-e coatings are microscopic, metallic coatings that are adhered to both the interior and exterior surface of the glass. These coatings are used to maintain the home’s cooled or warmed air and to prevent the heat or cold outside from getting in. Experts claim that coated windows can reduce the rate of home heating or cooling loss by as much as 50%.
Ready, Set, Connect!
For more information about replacing your home’s windows, please visit our section on Windows and Doors. Ready to connect with a window contractor? You can find local window and door companies here in our listings.
