Choose Windows That Let Comfort Shine In!
Windows make an important statement in any home. They give it expression, allow light in to brighten it up, bring in fresh air and can help conserve your energy costs year-round. So when it comes to your new windows, SGC Exteriors wants to help you with this important decision-making process so that you will be confident that the choices you make are the right fit for your home and budget.
There are many factors to consider when choosing windows to replace existing windows or to add new windows to an elevation of your home. The choices you make should take into consideration: cost, energy-efficiency, noise-reduction, maintenance, warranty and professional installation. Then there are the aesthetics: design, beauty, form, presentation and suitability. The best selections work with the way you live and are appropriate for the architectural style of your home.
Also, you may be eligible to receive energy tax credits if you choose windows that qualify for the program.
To be eligible for the energy tax credit, the windows you select MUST have a U-Factor (how much heat loss a product allows) less than or equal to 0.30 and a SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient) less than or equal to 0.30 (the lower the number on these scales, the better the performance). A good start is looking for windows with the Energy Star logo, then compare window values with regards to: U-Factor, SHGC, warm-edge technology, and air infiltration ratio.
There is also the R-value (a measure of thermal resistance) to consider. The R-value indicates a window’s ability to impede heat flow. The larger the number, the better the insulating benefits.
In order to meet the U-Factor and SHCG requirements, window glass usually has special “Low-E” coatings to reflect infrared and ultraviolet light, keeping inside temperatures steady and UV rays from sunbleaching your furniture and textiles.
Modern insulated (double- or triple-pane) window glass should contain a non-toxic gas, a natural element mined from the earth, such as Argon or Krypton that is colorless and odorless. This gas provides a barrier (a dense gas which keeps heat in or out according to the season) between the outside extreme temperatures and the comfortable inside temperatures. Keep in mind, there are many types of windows on the market, but the great majority fall into three categories: vinyl, fiberglass and wood. Each type has its features, benefits and costs.
Vinyl Windows: The number one choice for replacement windows both by quantity of consumers and quantity of units placed is the vinyl option. Vinyl windows are low maintenance (no painting needed, clean with a damp cloth), are energy efficient (the frame and sash conduct minimal heat or cold), and have the highest return, lowest price point when compared to other window types. Vinyl window frames, sash and glass are manufactured to 1/8″ increment sizes, custom-made to fit your home’s exact measurements for a perfect fit. No wallpaper re-working, no plaster or drywall repairs, no carpentry required, no messy window frame tear-outs, no splintering, no dust and no debris in your home. Standard vinyl window installation is conducted from your home’s exterior. Vinyl windows can be architecturally enhanced with grilles and decorative glass. Grilles can be placed inside the glass for easiest cleaning. Vinyl windows give the homeowner the greatest number of options at the least expense.
Wood Windows: Wood windows, long the industry standard, have become less popular as other window options have become available. Wood windows offer a distinct beauty that natural wood brings: perfect for staining to match your interiors, especially in vintage homes. They do have higher maintenance requirements and can rot and deteriorate with weather. In general, wood windows should be protected by storm windows to keep the elements at bay.
Window Configurations: Single-Hung • Double-Hung • Casement/Awning • Bay/Bow • Garden • Slider • Decorative
SGC Exteriors’ Windows That Qualify for Energy Tax Credits:
Replacement Windows, What to Look For:
- Styles, materials and design with little or no maintenance that syncs with your lifestyle.
- Lifetime material, parts and/or labor guarantee.
- Lifetime glass breakage and seal failure protection.
- The Energy Star Logo.
- Quality brands from financially strong organizations with best-in-class guarantees like Simonton, and Norandex.
- Well-crafted hardware: innovative designs; folding roto-handles, ADA and Arthritis Foundation Approved lifts and locks.
- Insulated glass option that will give your home the best performance possible at a cost you can afford.
- A professional and experienced installation team and BBB A+ accreditation
