The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows

Energy-efficient windows will:

• Increase your comfort. Energy-efficient windows reduce cold drafts and make a house feel warmer during the heating season.
• Help control condensation. The interior surfaces of energy-efficient windows stay warmer, which means you can maintain a higher level of relative humidity without worrying about condensation on the windows (keep in mind that efficiency improvements to windows will not prevent condensation if the humidity level in your house is too high).
• Save you money. Minimizing air leakage and improving the thermal performance of your windows, by adding interior storm windows, for example, could improve their energy efficiency by up to 50 percent and reduce your energy bills.
• Last longer. Condensation can cause premature deterioration of windows, as well as walls and finishes, leading to costly maintenance or replacement.
• Improve indoor air quality and contribute to a healthy living environment. By reducing condensation, energy-efficient windows help prevent mould growth.
• Reduce the penetration of dust, dirt, insects and sound into your home.
• Reduce energy consumption and its impact on the environment .

Windows generally consist of a frame, sash and glazing. The glazing (usually glass) fits into the sash, which in turn is held in place in the wall by the frame. The trim provides a finish around the window. In general, fixed windows are more energy efficient than operable windows of the same size, material and orientation because they are more airtight and have more glazing (relative to the frame). This extra glazing area allows more solar heat to enter the house during the heating season.