Living in the South means a constant battle against heat and humidity year-round. To protect your home and save on energy bills, energy-efficient windows are your best defense.
The Power of Energy-Efficient Windows
In addition to your roof, your windows are among the best upgrades you can make to keep heat and humidity out while keeping cool, dry air in. The energy savings are well worth the upgrade.
Regular windows let infrared rays into your home. High-performance, energy-efficient windows are engineered to reflect infrared heat away from your home while letting natural light in.
The Advantages
1. By keeping radiant heat out, you take the pressure off your HVAC system, helping it run less frequently and extending the life of your system.
You can expect anywhere from a 7-15% reduction in your heating and cooling bills by installing high-efficiency windows.
2. This type of window also keeps your interior furnishings and floors from looking faded or bleached on one side from UV exposure.
3. A humidity and moisture barrier: Humidity is a real problem in the South. Poorly sealed, older windows aren’t just leaking air; they’re also letting damaging moisture into your home.
Energy-efficient windows feature precision-engineered seals and gas-filled chambers that form a thermal barrier, preventing condensation on the glass. This protects your walls and trim from water damage that can lead to rot and mold.
What to Look for When Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, look for ratings that matter.
SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient): This is the most important number for Southern homeowners. Look for a window with an SHGC of .25 or lower.
A lower number indicates the window is better at blocking intense sunlight.
U-Factor: This measures insulation. Aim for a U-Factor of .30 or lower. This keeps the cool air in your home where it belongs.
Window frame material: Vinyl frames are your best bet if you live in the South. They work because they are non-conductive, so they don’t transfer heat like aluminum does.
They are also highly resistant to warping and fading caused by high-UV summer sun.
Replacing your windows with energy-efficient models is a home improvement project that will improve your bottom line for years to come.
Paired with a high-quality roofing system, your home can withstand anything the Southern heat throws at you.
Sealing your home’s envelope will save on energy costs, protect your furnishings, and increase its resale value by creating a cool retreat from the hot Southern sun.
Also, contact your local power provider about any “home energy efficiency programs” that may offer direct rebates for installing high-performance windows.
Southern National Roofing is your local resource for a professional assessment of your home’s energy efficiency.
Our team is here to help you improve your home with energy-efficient windows and to advise you on the best products for your budget.
We focus on high-quality products and superior customer service to help you increase your home’s value.
