As cheap energy became scarce over the years, building science grew up, forcing designers and builders to find practical ways to improve the insulation and airtightness of their homes. With much higher R-values in foundations, walls, and roofs, there is new pressure on windows to perform. Their job isn’t easy. Unlike the rest of a house, windows must let in a flood of daylight, and a breath of fresh air when called upon, while helping to maintain the thermal performance of the home. The bar for energy-efficiency is higher than ever, but there is good news for today’s earth- and value-conscious homeowners: Window technology has improved steadily and significantly, and there are great new options for low-energy homes, no matter the climate in which they are built.

Learn about these new options in this free PDF download, created by the editors of Fine Homebuilding and sponsored by Integrity from Marvin Windows and Doors.

Table of Contents

Understanding efficiency ratings and performance
• U-Factor
• NFRC Label
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
• Visible Transmittance

Balancing performance with building budgets
• Payback
• Passive solar
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient vs. U-Factor

Choosing window types and frame materials
• Window styles
• Frame and cladding options
• Impact resistance and longevity

Selecting the right glazing package
• Double pane
• Triple pane
• Coatings