Windows are a critical component in building your new home.
One of the things I have observed when selling real estate in previously owned homes, is the quality of the double pane window. The most important tip on a double pane window in your new home is the space between the two pieces of glass creating the insulation factor. The thickness between the two pieces of glass should be between 1/2" to 3/4" of an inch. Here's a web site that provides a really good illustration of the window thickness and insulation factors.
There are other components that provide for higher insulation factors to double pane windows. The addition of different gases (like argon and krypton) and films and coatings (like "low-E which is short for emissivity") between the panes can provide an insulation value upwards of R-6 or greater. These special coatings applied to the window will greatly reduce heat gain from the hot summer sun and heat lost in the cold winter. To work well this special coating must be applied to the outside surface of the inside pane of glass in the south. In the north the special coating is applied to the inside surface of the outside glass to keep heat inside. Be sure you are well informed and don't order the wrong kind!
You should also consider and compare warranties carefully. Not all warranties are created equal. Besides checking the warranty, you can compare one window brand over another by looking for the NFRC label. That stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. (Fenestration is the architectural term for windows.) First, look at the U-Factor, which serves as a good measure of heat loss in winter. The lower the U-factor, the better. The NFRC rating considers the whole window as a unit, including glazing, the sealing method and the frame material. Next, look at the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient . In a hot climate, the lower the better. Finally, look at the Visible Transmittance. This number should be as high as possible. In summary, look for the best possible combination of numbers--the most light for the least solar gain and the least heat loss.
A high quality window has so many benefits--lower energy bills, less maintenance, reduced fading of furniture and carpets, improved security, beauty and comfort--it pays to make a good window investment.
What do you think? Is this important to your success in Building your New Home?!
David L. Britt
Olathe, Kansas
http://www.heritage.net
http://heritagerealestateteam.com
Guiding You HOME!
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