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Understanding Replacement Window Ratings

Most of the replacement window ratings information you will ever need is on the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) performance label that adorns all reputable windows. This non profit organization has made it their business to provide uniform, unbiased information about the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights.

This handy little label gives the homeowner all important numeric specifics like the U-value, which measures how well the window guards heat. The lower this number is, the better. Its flip side, the R-value, measures how well a window insulates and the higher this number, the better. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures how well a window keeps solar heat out of your house, with a low number meaning that less solar heat will penetrate through the window.

Air filtration (NFRC 400) is the measure of the amount of outside air that leaks into your house from the outside. A high air leakage rate is the kiss of death for any domestic energy bill. Furnaces then have to work harder in winter while air conditioners expend extra energy in the summer.

If these numbers are confusing, there's a simpler approach to figuring out which window is well made and energy efficient: the Energy Star rating. This is an award for windows that meet the energy saving standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Understanding replacement window ratings will ensure you make the right window choices for your particular climactic challenges whether you live in a 'mostly heating' zone, a 'mostly cooling' zone or a combination of the two.

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