Energy efficiency in Oklahoma City windows

In Oklahoma City windows need to be capable of handling a mixed climate where homes need both heating in winter and cooling in summer. High performance windows can save on heating and cooling costs by reducing drafts and retaining warmth while also filtering UV light to prevent the fading of fabric and furnishing.

Choose Energy Star-rated windows which will meet – or better – local energy code standards. Look for the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label, which verifies that windows comply with energy codes and displays their energy properties in detail. All windows that comply with Energy Star requirements will have the NFRC label.

The NFRC label will list a range of factors relating to energy efficiency including U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficiency (SHGC), Visible Transmittance, Air Leakage and Condensation Resistance.

U-Factor is used to measure the rate at which windows lose heat. In Oklahoma City windows should have a U-Factor of .22 or less to ensure the best insulation.

SHGC measures how much heat a window transmits. If cooling is a concern, look for an SHGC under 0.40. Visible Transmittance indicates how much visible light windows transmit – the higher the VT, the more light a window lets in – and Air Leakage measures the amount of air that passes through window frames. Choose windows with a low Air Leakage number to prevent both cold and hot air from entering your home.

Finally, Condensation Resistance must also be considered. This refers to how much condensation will form on a window and is measured as a number ranging from 1 to 100. The higher the number, the better a window can resist condensation. Condensation Resistance doesn’t appear on all NFRC labels, though, and isn’t as important as U-Factor and SHGC.

Still, it does reduce time spent cleaning windows and, as people tend to spend at least an hour a day cleaning their homes according to DIY expert Tommy Walsh, the time saved could be a real benefit.

Once windows that meet all the requirements are chosen, they need to be installed properly to ensure that they are as well insulated as possible. In Oklahoma City windows specialists should have all the necessary Oklahoma state and local licenses and should certified to install your chosen brand.

When choosing a contractor always ask for references and don’t hesitate to ask for references specifically related to window installation.