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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

"Renewal was fantastic! They kept you in the loop from ordering to installation. They informed you at every step of the process of what was happening. The installers were kind, courteous, and professional. Everything was cleaned up after the installation. It was as if they hadn't been there except to see your beautiful new windows. I highly recommend them."

Angie Klevorn
Nov 21, 2023

"3rd time using RBA for window replacement. Again, a very positive experience, the windows are great, the installation was done right, the professionalism was apparent from start to finish. Still have existing windows to be replaced and will definitely use RBA again to do it in the future."

Doug Dick
Nov 21, 2023

"Renewal by Andersen was a good experience for us in replacement of our windows. From the initial meeting with the sales representative, Leslie, through the waiting period for manufacturing, and then to the installment process, our experience was excellent! Communication is key for me and we were kept informed and updated as our windows were being ordered and manufactured. Calls to update us on the installation process were welcomed and appreciated. They know how much is too much so they don't pester you with unnecessary contact. We love our new windows!!! Did I say that already??😂 We can tell a major difference in reduced Street noise and also the temperature at our windows. Excellent company, highly recommend!!"

Paula Null
Nov 15, 2023

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