Aside from a game of “living room hockey” gone wrong, the main reason people replace their windows is to improve energy efficiency, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs and more comfortable living year-round.
Many homeowners however, find little or no difference after replacing their windows, even if they did buy Energy Star High Efficient windows. Some homeowners might even find that their problems get worse following pricy window renovations.
Unfortunately, those people may have been sold the wrong glass.
GLASS VARIETIES
Energy efficient windows make your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter but it’s important to remember, that not all windows are created equally. Selling someone the wrong glass for their home is as helpful as selling someone glasses that have the wrong prescription. They might look great but they won’t get the job done.
The team at suggest to watch out for “Car 180/Clear” on your window quote. It’s a sneaky way for window manufacturers to trick Energy Star ratings and sell you glass that appears to be energy efficient, but it’s far from it.
Energy Star ratings only considers Insulation/U-Value (How well the glass stops heat from escaping from your home in the winter). In fact, Energy Star rewards a window for Solar Heat Gain (how well the glass blocks heat from the sun in the summer). Once summertime rolls around, Solar Heat Gain is significant. Making the wrong choice will turn your home into a sauna and increase your cooling costs.
SELECTING THE RIGHT GLASS FOR EACH ROOM
Building Science Expert, Anton Van Dyk breaks down the importance of purchasing the right glass for your windows.
“If you replace your windows with glass that has high Solar Heat Gain, the heat from the sun will travel through the glass and get trapped in your home. As a result, your home will be even hotter than it was before you replaced your windows. A reputable window company will work with you, display various options and help you make the right decision. You may end up selecting different glass for different rooms, depending if your home has southern exposure, shade, street noise, large windows, among other variables. Do your research, ask questions and make sure the glass you bring into your home serves its purpose throughout the year.”
is a local manufacturer and installation company of custom energy efficient windows. They pride themselves on being window consultants that will make sure you get the best product for your specific home.
