Whichever windows you choose will directly affect the way your homes overall look as well as how energy-efficient your home is.
Some styles of windows are more energy-efficient than others.

Casement windows open from a hinge either at the top or on the side by the turn of a crank and are the most energy efficient. The sash on these windows are designed for a tight fit for a good weather seal and let little air through. These work best on contemporary homes.

Another style is the double hung window which is more tradition and consists of a lower and upper pane. You open and close it by sliding lower pane upward. The seal on these windows becomes damaged over time and it will let in more air.

The next type of window is the sliding window, which is basically a double hung window which slides from left to right. It is subject to the same sort of damages as the double hung window.

*What is R-value? It is the measure of how much heat loss your windows are capable of preventing. You want the windows with the highest R-value possible. The R-value is measure by how much heat is lost. The higher the R-value is, the more expensive the windows. The R-value is rated according to window’s efficiency in the center of the glass.

*The U-factor is the second big factor to consider. The U-factor measures how well your window prevent air from leaking between the sash and frame. U-factors less than 0.35 are considered energy efficient. If you life where it is cold and windy, you will want to give the U-factor just as much consideration as the R-value.

*Low-E (also known as low emissivity) windows consist of an inner and outer pane and the area between is filled with inert gas such as argon and provides great insulation without messing up the clarity of the glass. The next step down is single-glazed and double-glazed windows that are coated with transparent metallic oxide and prevents some heat loss. Single-glazed are only glazed on one side while double-glaze have the glaze on both sides.

Remember, in order to get the look and savings that you are looking for, the windows have to be installed correctly. There are certified installers for most of the windows that you purchase. Be sure to read installation instructions for the windows that you choose and be sure that your installer intends to read and follow them to the end. If you plan to paint the windows, be sure that the installer uses acrylic-latex caulk, which can be painted, not silicone.

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