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WHAT MAKES A WINDOW ENERGY-EFFICIENT? – PART 2: WINDOW STYLES & ENERGY EFFICIENCY

It’s not just the materials that make a window provide better energy efficiency, what with different styles offering their own way of keeping a home ventilated, insulated and illuminated. Knowing what each style has to offer can help you decide which one to get to achieve your energy-efficiency goals.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows provide great ventilation control as both sashes are operable, allowing homeowners to use just one or both depending on their needs. They also let in moderate amounts of natural light, contributing to daylighting needs.

Casement Windows

Because casement windows can be opened all the way, they create the best opportunities for ventilation. Their large openings let a lot of air in and out and the sash can be angled in such a way that it captures breezes effectively.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows can only open as wide as one sash. However, sliding window sashes are generally bigger than the ones double-hung windows use so the former is able to offer better ventilation. Glass areas are also usually unobstructed by muntins, letting in a lot of light into a room to aid in illumination during the day.

Bow & Bay Windows

Bow and bay windows are both made up of a series of smaller windows configured together, creating large areas of glass that let homeowners take advantage of natural light. All those windows also mean more openings, allowing bow and bay windows to provide excellent ventilation and expansive views.

Picture Windows

Picture windows are also known as fixed windows because they can’t be opened. This means they can’t offer ventilation because they are sealed, but picture windows are the best option for optimal insulation. Picture windows also have some of the largest glass areas around, making them great daylighting tools.

We’ll be wrapping up this three-part blog series by talking about how window features contribute to achieving energy efficiency in a home, complementing style and material options.

Reviews

"The installation crew was very professional and answered what questions I had. And they cleaned up when they were finished. We're very pleased with our windows & patio doors. Highly recommend Renewl by Anderson."

Pamela D
Feb 13, 2023

"Very pleased with installation of six windows and a ProVia entry door. I love the look of the windows and door. I am pleased that my wife is thrilled with the look of the door. She is very pleased that the bronze color fits in well with the color of the brick."

Terry S
Feb 8, 2023

"I just had my Renewal by Andersen windows installed and couldn’t be happier, the entire process went very smoothly. The windows are high quality and look great. But the installers Roy, Zack and Jordan were the stars, they introduced themselves upon arrival walked me thru everything they were going to do and when they finished took me to each window to make sure I was completely satisfied. They were clean and courteous and I would definitely recommend and have them work in my home again."

BOB B
Feb 6, 2023

"Wonderful experience with knowledgeable, competent employees. We had Andersen windows in a previous house & didn’t even consider anything else this time. After replacing our patio door almost two years ago, we replaced all our windows this year. What a difference over builder-grade windows, especially in the really cold temperatures we’ve had this year. Andersen windows may be a little more expensive than other brands, but they are top quality."

Susan S
Jan 31, 2023

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