Five Common Features of Energy Efficient Windows

Welcome back to the Valley Windows blog, where our dedication to craftsmanship and ongoing customer service help give our valued customer community a better view for their home. If you’re a first-time visitor, welcome! We are the window manufacturer that builders and designers choose to use in their own homes. We have a different view on windows and doors. Part of that is information sharing, so this blog should serve as your one-stop shop for all things related to windows, doors and beyond. When you have the information that you need, you’re set up to make informed decisions about which products will work best for you.

A big piece of our business is sustainability. We believe that we should all do our parts to limit our carbon footprints. Your windows are a surprisingly powerful component of this. In our last post, we kicked off a series discussing energy efficient windows and what makes them energy efficient. Let’s continue to discuss.

Window Energy Rating Scheme

In order for your window product to be deemed energy efficient, there’s a process in Australia called WERS. Per their Website,

“The Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) provides a scientifically based, fair and credible rating system for the assessment of fenestration products for their energy efficiency performance. WERS is accredited by the Australian Fenestration Rating Council (AFRC) and adheres to AFRC protocols and procedures for the rating of windows and glazed doors. Energy Ratings provided by WERS are third party certified to the AFRC requirements, compliant with the National Construction Code (NCC), and able to be used to meet regulatory requirements.”

Common Features of Energy Efficient Windows

So, what makes a window energy efficient? There are a couple of common features:

Quality frame materials – The frame materials need to be low-maintenance and durable to help insulate and reduce heat transfer. Recommended materials include fiberglass, aluminium, wood, composite and vinyl.

Multiple panes – the more panes, the better the insulation. Look for products with at least two panes, which make a world of difference and help with both sound insulation and impact resistance.

Gas fills – We just mentioned multiple panes, but what goes in between them? Some energy-efficient products take advantage of odourless, colourless, non-toxic gases like argon and krypton. These gasses insulate at a more superior rate than just air.

Low-E glass – This is a special coating which leverages infrared light to help insulate your home. They help keep heat outside in the summer and inside in the winter. Bonus? They reflect ultraviolet light which ensures that your furnishings inside won’t fade.

Warm edge spacers – General spacers keep the panes that we just talked about, the correct distance apart. Look for options in non-metallic, hybrid and metal to determine which product makes the most sense for you. All models will reduce heat transfer through your window product.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to energy efficient windows. We’ll continue to share tips and tricks as well as industry information to help you learn more. Questions? Comments? Let us know!