From withstanding the harsh desert heat to letting in sunlight and that occasional nice breeze, replacement windows have a big job to do, and you must choose them carefully.
Choosing Windows for Best Performance in Mesa, AZ
Established in 1992 under authority of the Clean Air Act, Energy Star is a U.S. Environmental program that helps home-owners save money and protect our environment through superior energy efficiency. Energy Star replacement windows must have officially certified U-factor and SHGC ratings, which must meet strict criteria in order to qualify.The U-factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Co-efficient) are two ratings which are very important for gauging a window’s performance and energy efficiency. The U-factor rating measures a window’s insulation capabilities. Windows with low U-factor ratings provide the interior of your home with greater comfort. The SHGC rating determines the amount of solar radiation (heat) that can transfer from the outside to the inside, essential for hot climates. A low SHGC rating is best, because it means that the window minimizes the amount of solar heat that penetrates the glass, keeping your home nice and cool.Windows for this the Mesa, AZ area shouldhave a U-factor of 0.40 or less, and an SHGC of 0.25 or less.
Window Frame Materials
Despite what some home-owners may think, vinyl is an excellent choice for hot climates, as the material is lightweight and will protect your home against the intense light and heat. Due to the region’s dry weather, wood windows are also a good option, as they are safe from moisture-caused warping and rotting. The best choice, however, is a low conductive foam-filled fiberglass and vinyl frame.
Glass Options
Low-E coating is a climate-specific layer on the glass that prevents heat gain while still providing sufficient sunlight and view. Reflective window glazes are great for controlling solar heat gain in hot climates like Mesa, AZ. Spectrally selective coatings allow visible light to pass through a window while resisting heat rays, and computer simulations show that these coatings reduce the electric space cooling requirements of homes in hot climates by more than 40%.
Argon or Krypton gas fills between window panes significantly increase a window’s insulation and thermal performance.For optimum insulation, get double or triple pane windows.
Tips for Replacement Windows in Mesa, AZ
In order to minimize the amount of solar heat that enters your windows, choose windows with light-colored frames. Select window styles that provide the maximum openable area and therefore maximum ventilation, like casement windows or louvres. Shading implements like blinds and awnings can also reduce solar heat.
From window materials to glass options, there is a lot to consider, and replacement windows can become a bit complicated, but Freelite is here make your home improvements a lot less stressful.
With over 30 years of experience in the window industry, we have the know-how to make replacement windows a breeze-from selection to installation! Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you with your Mesa windows replacement project!
Phone 602.233.1981
Email info@freeliteaz.com