Energy Efficient Windows and Doors: Comfort, Energy Bill Savings and a Great Investment

By Heather Elsberry, Marvin Window Consultant, AVI, a Marvin Design Gallery

Windows and doors are hard working parts of your home. They keep your family safe and secure, let in daylight and fresh air, add beauty, and most important of all, they keep the extremes of Mother Nature outside where they belong. Besides keeping your home snug in the colder months, they can also keep your home cooler in the heat – that’s if they’re energy efficient. And along the way, they can have a noticeable effect on your energy bills. If you happen to have windows that are at least 20 years old, they produce 5.3 tons more greenhouse gases per year than new windows. Even if your home was built in the past 20 years, your builder may not have put in energy efficient windows.

Builders have a tough job keeping down the cost of homes they build. In some cases, they are forced to use less expensive types of windows, ones that were definitely not engineered with efficiency (or low maintenance for that matter) in mind. In fact, if you currently have these inexpensive wood windows they can also be prone to rot or decay, so window replacement may be in your future.

The good news is that windows, especially wood windows, are a proven way to add to your home’s value. Plus, new windows can be up to 45% more energy efficient. And because windows account for 10-25%* of your home’s total energy consumption, upgrading to more energy efficient windows can start saving you money from the moment their installed.

Look for these qualities in your new windows to be sure you’ll be making the right investment. Options such as LoĒ2-272® and LoĒ³-366® glass enhance energy performance. These two options involve a special coating that deflects the sun’s summer heat while allowing in the warmth in the winter, evening out temperature extremes year round. These coatings also block UV light, protecting furnishings from severe fading.

Also look for a reputable national brand and check the manufacturer’s warranty. Some replacement window brands actually include a lifetime warranty – just be sure your dealing with a company that’s been in business for decades and most likely to be there for you in the long haul.

And finally, demand professional installation that’s also backed by a warranty (in addition to the product warranty.) Some window installers carry credentials such as Installation Masters® certification and factory training. Keeping these simple qualities in mind, you’ll never worry about your windows again. For more window replacement tips, read our handy guide, visit www.AVIMarvin.com or call AVI today at (678) 297-1111.

AVI, A Marvin Design Gallery
3150 Piedmont Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30305
(678) 297-1111
www.AVIMarvin.com

*According to the Window and Door Manufacturer’s Association