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Ratings for Replacement Vinyl Windows: What the Experts Say

As heating costs rise, energy efficiency is an ever-bigger factor in decisions regarding windows. Fortunately for those of us that struggle with math there is a natty system of ratings for replacement vinyl windows. Constructed by a team of experts it makes it easy for us to compare the ability of various brands and types to conserve heat.

Many states have adopted the standards of the National Fenestration Rating Council, making your selection of windows as informed as if you actually understood the mathematics of the measurement equations. All you need do is examine the various ratings: the U-factor, the R-values or, easiest of all, to look for the Energy Star rating.

U-factor ratings measure the conductance of heat of the overall window, not just the glass. R-values, conversely, measure the window's overall resistance to heat flow. If you have an orderly mind, you may realize that a good U-factor rating is a low number, usually somewhere between 0.5 and .1, while a good R-value rating is a higher number, ranging between 0.9 and 3.0. Don't worry if a window's material doesn't include both ratings; one rather implies the other, in reverse!

If this is too complicated the federal EPA has an absolutely wonderful award known as the Energy Star designation. Any window with the Energy Star award is rated very highly, and would be a good choice in virtually any climate. You basically can't lose with an Energy Star rating.

Whether you live in the South and want to keep heat out or the North where you want to retain heat, examining the ratings for vinyl replacement windows is an essential and easy way to govern your window choice.

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