Doors & Windows
In older homes, doors and windows are often one of the largest sources of heat loss in winter due to their low insulating ability and high air leakage rates. Windows are also generally the major source of unwanted heat gain in the summer. As a result, windows are typically net energy losers, and can be responsible for 25 to 50 percent of the energy used to heat and cool homes. However, better insulated doors and windows, combined with proper consideration of their placement and other details, can result in a net energy gain.
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Efficient Windows Collaborative (EWC)
The Efficient Windows Collaborative is excited to announce the launch of a new database of efficiency initiatives including tax incentives, building code changes and legislative initiatives
This site provides unbiased information on the benefits of energy-efficient windows, descriptions of how they work, and recommendations for their selection and use.
This site is sponsored by the EWC with support from the U.S. Department of Energy's Windows and Glazings Program and the participation of industry members.
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Energy Efficient Interior Storm Windows
Homeowners are usually interested in lowering energy expenses, but are not always willing to pay large costs or sacrifice the appearance of their home to do so. Interior storm windows provide a compromise by increasing the energy performance of a home at significant cost savings over window replacement. They are particularly suited to historic and other homes where it is desirable to retain the original windows or to improve efficiency without altering the home's exterior appearance. In addition to energy benefits, interior storm windows can improve sound resistance, decrease window condensation, and reduce degradation to furnishings from ultraviolet (UV) light.
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Glazing Overview
Windows and other glazed external surfaces have a major impact on the energy efficiency of the building envelope. If not designed correctly they can allow substantial unwanted heat transfer between the interior and the outdoors. If designed correctly, they will help maintain year-round comfort levels in your home.
Windows also provide natural daylight, ventilation, noise control, security and allow views connecting interior and outdoor spaces.
Heat loss and gain in a well insulated home occurs mostly through the windows. In summer, each square metre of glass in direct sun can allow as much heat in as would be produced by a single bar radiator. In winter, losses from a window can be ten or more times the losses through the same area of insulated wall.
With good passive design windows can trap warmth in winter and repel summer heat. They admit cooling breezes and exclude cold winter wind
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National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)
NFRC is a non-profit organization that administers the only uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and attachment products. Our goal is to provide fair, accurate, and reliable energy performance ratings
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The Benefit of Energy Efficient Doors
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There are many different types of doors out there to choose from such as storm and prime. In those specific categories you can break it down even further. You can find out more specific information on types of doors on this website.
One thing you definitely want to look for in the quality of a door is to make sure it is energy efficient. This includes fitting in your door frame properly to seal the space completely. There is often magnetic weather'stripping included on the door to ensure a tight seal. Some doors will also have a bottom expander with a vinyl sweep to keep that seal.
An energy efficient door will greatly decrease drafts in your house which will in turn decrease your utilities. Heat and air conditioning will stay in therefore decreasing running time of your units. Besides having a new door that will help to lower utility bills, you can completely change the way your home looks by choosing a new door. Some can be painted in any color you choose to give your home a beautiful new fresh look. Shut a new energy efficient door on your home today.
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Tubular Skylights
Many homeowners enjoy the natural lighting that skylights provide. However, skylights often do not distribute light evenly, are a significant source of energy loss, and can cause UV damage to carpets and furniture. Tubular skylights, on the other hand, use the sun for lighting interiors without the drawbacks associated with conventional skylights. They are generally easier to install than typical skylights and, from the home's interior, resemble conventional lighting fixtures.
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Window Film
The increasing usage of glass in today's homes is unmistakable. Besides the benefits, some of the side effects are glare, rapid fading of carpets, furniture and draperies, heat build up and higher energy costs. Manufacturers offer window films that improve energy efficiency, reduce solar gain and block ultraviolet radiation. The films allow a variety of applications, finishes and coatings for all types of glass.
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