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Environmentally Conscious Window Replacement Tips
As environmental concerns continue to mount worldwide, integrating more sustainable practices and products into our lives are increasingly important. Windows are an important factor to consider when thinking about making “green” improvements to your home. After all, poor-performing windows can waste up to 40% of heating energy in winter.* Knowing that energy efficient windows can reduce energy consumption, Renewal by Andersen® offers the following tips to homeowners who are thinking about replacing their existing windows:
Look for Green Seal certification. Green Seal is a national nonprofit environmental organization that helps consumers choose environmentally responsible products.
Make sure windows meet ENERGY STAR® performance guidelines. These can help you achieve substantial savings on heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), installing an ENERGY STAR qualified window that matches your climate zone will save you $110 - $400 a year per home in energy costs when replacing single pane windows and $20 - $85 per year when replacing doublepaned, clear glass windows.
Look for the NFRC-rating efficiency label. To help homeowners compare window products, the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) established an independent, industry-wide standard for rating and labeling windows. The NFRC label shows thermal insulating performance based in U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and can be found on all ENERGY STAR qualified windows. The U-Factor is a better indicator of window performance than R-value. The NFRC label means the entire window unit has been tested for energy performance, not just the center of the glass or part of the frame.
Make sure window framing material has good insulating properties and are durable. Framing material is a strong indication of long-term performance. Homeowners should ask what resources are used to produce the material and what the insulating properties of the material are.
Make sure the window glass is energy efficient. Glass is a critical component in energy efficiency. Today’s double panes, especially those with low-E coatings, improve a window’s energy efficiency without added weight and structure.
Have windows installed correctly. Quality installation is essential if you are to get the full benefits of efficient windows. Know that the window opening has been measured, installed and insulated correctly—and make sure you get professional installers that warrant their work. Even the highest quality window will be greatly diminished in energy efficiency if you allow heavy air infiltration between the rough framing and the window.
Consider the disposal of your older window. Know that the materials from the window that is being replaced will be disposed of in an environmentally responsible way.
Consider the maintenance. Many older windows need to be painted often which can create more waste. Buying a window replacement with low-maintenance features will allow you to do less maintenance on the home and reduce waste in the environment.
Why should homeowners be thinking about their windows when they want to be more conscientious about building materials or renovations?
Making the wrong decision on replacement windows could mean another replacement project just a few years down the road.
Windows are a key component to a home’s energy efficiency.
When you enhance you home’s livability with replacement windows, you are also making an investment in the long-term value of your property.
A new replacement window may offer homeowners convenience.
What do Renewal by Andersen® replacement windows provide that other replacement windows don't?
Green Seal Certification. Renewal by Andersen® is the only replacement window company to receive Green Seal certification—a distinction that rewards energy-efficient performance and environmentally responsible manufacturing and packaging.
All windows meet ENERGY STAR® guidelines. Renewal by Andersen® windows are ENERGY STAR qualified for all climate zones of the United States.
Exclusive Fibrex® framing material. Fibrex material is a composite that offers the benefit of low-maintenance and high insulating value. Windows made from Fibrex material resist the transfer of heat and cold in and out of your home.
Exclusive High-Performance™ Low-E4™ glass. High-Performance Low-E4 glass is a remarkable 35% more energy efficient in winter and 41% more efficient in summer than standard dual-pane glass. In addition to the energy efficiency benefits, High-Performance Low-E4 glass also features an exclusive titanium dioxide coating that actually loosens dirt and reduces up to 99 percent of water spots on the glass exterior when activated by sunlight.
Experience. Renewal by Andersen’s parent company, Andersen ® Corporation, is over 100 years old and has the most recognized window brand in the U.S. We take pride in Andersen’s reputation and carry its traditional of excellence into designing and manufacturing products for the specialized window replacement segment.
Exclusive start-to-finish window replacement division of Andersen Corporation. Our start-to-finish process provides homeowners with the benefit of working with a professional company throughout the entire process—from sales through installation and service—and promises one-stop accountability.
Full range of window styles. Renewal by Andersen® offers double hung, casement & awning, gliding, picture window combinations, specialty windows, bay and bow windows. If you think you may need to replace your windows, give Renewal by Andersen® a call or visit www.loveyourwindows.com. Renewal by Andersen® product experts can provide a free in-home consultation at a time convenient for you.
* Windows and Doors- MN Department of Commerce Energy Information
“ENERGY STAR” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
“Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks, where denoted, are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2006 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.
