Custom Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows

According to the Department of Energy, energy efficient windows can help reclaim the quarter to a third of all energy costs associated with heating and cooling a home. Indeed, if it costs a couple hundred dollars a month to heat or cool your home, that could mean hundreds in savings each and every year, and you'll be doing your part to help save planet earth.

Whether you're choosing windows for a new build or you're replacing your home's old and tired panes of glass, energy efficient vinyl windows are an affordable way to beat the cold and the heat. But while you consider your many stylistic and energy-saving options, there are several things that you can do today to squeeze more out of your existing windows. 

DIY-ers can go the caulk and weatherstripping route, while decorators can try their hand at various window covering options such as blinds, shutters and shades. Storm windows and solar control film are additional ways to help the energy efficiency of your existing windows, and awnings can help cool an outside area in addition to shielding your windows from the sun.

But the best way to maximize efficiency and save on energy costs is to replace your windows.

While some energy efficient windows are drop-in replacements, allowing you to keep your home's existing window frames, others are full replacements, and they give you more creative freedom to play with your window frames or create new views with a brand new window to the outside world.

Regardless of the window style, it's important to look for the ENERGY STAR label. The ENERGY STAR label and its associated rating from the National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC, are included on all certified windows that you can buy, so it's easy to know exactly what kind of energy efficiency you'll be getting. 

Colder climates can also benefit from gas-filled windows with low-e coatings that reduce heat loss -- warmer climates are better suited by windows with coatings reject the heat while allowing in visible light. Similarly, a low U-factor has better thermal resistance in colder climates, while a low solar heat gain coefficient, or SHGC, is more suited for warm climates. For climates that get hot in the summer and cold in the winter, a low U-factor and low SHGC maximizes energy savings year-round.

However, even the best, most energy efficient window must be installed correctly to provide the rated benefits. This is not the time for a DIY-job. Only trained professionals following the manufacturer's specifications should be tasked with installing your windows, otherwise your window warranty may not be valid, and you could be stuck with increased energy costs if a leak or other issue is introduced.

Based on the type of window, your home's construction and exterior cladding, as well as the existence of any weather-restrictive barrier, installation of an energy efficient window will vary, but the end result is the same as long as the manufacturer's instructions are followed. When in doubt, consult the Building America Solution Center for guidance on what goes into a successful installation of energy efficient windows.

If you're sick of your home's drafty, outdated windows, give the experts at Brothers Windows a call. With affordable options and financing available, there's no reason not to maximize the energy efficiency of your home through beautiful and functional energy efficient windows. Licensed in California and Nevada, we've helped thousands of customers optimize the energy efficiency of their windows and homes. Call us today to find out how we can help you.