Are Vinyl Windows Energy Efficient?
Whether you’re building a new house or hunting for the perfect replacement windows for your existing home, you’ll find plenty of choices. Vinyl windows are certainly one of the most popular. They’re generally among the most affordable options. They’re delightfully easy to maintain. They’re available in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors, and they never need repainting. Those are all great selling points, but one question remains: Are vinyl windows energy efficient?
Evaluating Vinyl Window Frames for Efficiency
According to Energy Saver, an office of the U.S. Department of Energy, vinyl frames are crafted from a thermoplastic material called polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. The way the material is produced results in hollow cavities that act as natural insulators. These cavities can also be filled with additional insulation for added protection.
Vinyl windows are energy-efficient windows, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Vinyl is a better thermal insulator than either wood or aluminum. It’s also recyclable.
Looking Beyond the Frame
Your window’s frames are a vital part of the window, but they are just one part. If you want to maximize your energy savings by shopping for optimal efficiency, you’ll need to look for more than just the window frame. To get the best results, consider factors like the following:
- Window glass: Glass tends to make up a large part of a window. Selecting windows with energy-efficient double- or triple-pane glass will provide a significant difference in performance over single-pane windows.
- Installation: Improper installation can lead to air and water infiltration. This can set the stage for not only high energy bills from drafts but also damage from leaks. It can also leave you struggling with windows that don’t work correctly.
- Frame construction: Not all vinyl windows are created equal. Low-quality windows are more likely to buckle or sag, compromising fit and creating a risk for air or water leaks. Choosing a sturdy frame from a reputable brand is a good way to ensure decades of reliable service.
Exploring ENERGY STAR and More
When energy efficiency is a trait that you value in a window, there are a couple of programs that can make your shopping experience easier. The first is the ENERGY STAR program from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Windows that meet this program’s standards will bear the program’s logo, so it’s easy to pick them out. Installing ENERGY STAR-certified windows can save you an average of 12 percent on your energy bill.
Another label to watch for is from the National Fenestration Rating Council. Where the ENERGY STAR label assures you that a product is efficient, the NFRC’s label digs deeper into a window’s efficiency by exploring how the product performs as a whole. Even a quick glance at this informative label lets you compare windows that might seem similar. It helps you choose the best energy-efficient window for your situation. The NFRC’s window label shows energy performance in four categories:
- U-factor is a measure of how well the window prevents heat from escaping the inside of your home.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient reveals how successfully the window keeps out unwanted heat from outside.
- Air Leakage offers a look at how much of a draft you can expect.
- Visible Transmittance shows how much natural light makes its way through the panes.
When you want gorgeous windows that boost your home’s comfort and property value and reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, reach out to the experts at American Window Company. We know windows, and we’re ready to use our expertise to ensure that you get the best results. Our knowledgeable team will be delighted to help you find the perfect products for your project. Contact us today to get started.
