Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows: What You Should Know

Your home’s outdated windows might start looking worse for wear or you’re noticing that they’re finally failing and you’re ready to look into replacement windows for your Cleveland home. We’ve got you, neighbor! These days, there are so many things to consider besides color and window shape–energy efficiency is also top of mind for most homeowners. So put those drafty rooms and high energy bills in the past and let’s get into what you need to know when it’s time for replacement windows. 

Fairview is your Cleveland home improvement company and we’re here to help. Let’s get into the benefits of choosing energy-efficient replacement windows, along with some key considerations to keep in mind.

What Are Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows?

Energy-efficient replacement windows for Cleveland homes are windows that are designed to reduce heat transfer and improve insulation. To put it simply, they serve as a strong barrier between indoor and outdoor temperatures, keeping heat or cold on the right side of the glass, depending on the season. Energy efficient windows keep heat in during winter, and keep heat out during summer. 

Here’s a rundown of the different components that make replacement windows energy efficient, along with a brief explanation of how they work:

• Double or Triple Pane Glass: Multiple layers of glass improve insulation
• Gas Fills (Argon or Krypton): Insulating gases between panes reduce heat transfer
• Low-E (Low Emissivity) Coatings: Reflect heat while allowing natural light in
• Insulated Frames: Materials like vinyl, fiberglass, and composite improve performance

Depending on the construction and features of a replacement window, it could carry different energy ratings. These standards are primarily set by The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and it is important to look for their certifications on any windows you consider. The following are the primary ratings you may see when shopping for replacement windows in Cleveland:

• U-Factor: measurement of how well a product keeps heat from escaping a room; lower is better at keeping heat in (typical range: 0.20-1.20)
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): measurement of how much solar heat can get into your home; low numbers resist, high numbers allow (Range: 0-1)
• Visible Transmittance (VT): measurement of how much natural light enters into your home; higher number equates to more natural light (range: 0-1)

Condensation and air leakage are two additional metrics that can be used to assess whether replacement windows are energy efficient and will help to maintain comfortable and clean indoor air. The ENERGY STAR® certification is a separate, public-private partnership administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Replacement windows that earn the ENERGY STAR label have been independently certified to meet strict standards for energy efficiency. 

Key Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows

The main benefit is in the name itself–these specially engineered replacement windows can help to reduce energy usage in your home, which in turn may also help to lower utility bills. Cleveland homeowners find that energy-efficient replacement windows are able to significantly improve indoor comfort. 

Here’s the top reasons to choose energy-efficient replacement windows for your home:

• Lower Energy Bills: Reduced heat exchange can lead to lower heating and cooling costs
• Improved Indoor Comfort: Fewer drafts and temperature fluctuations make it easier to keep indoor living spaces at a constant, comfortable temperature
• Noise Reduction: Thicker glass and multiple layers of glass can reduce outside noise
• UV Protection: Coatings on windows can help to prevent fading of furniture and flooring
• Increased Home Value: Replacement windows are an upgrade that make an attractive feature for potential buyers when you sell your home
• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Insulative qualities keep interior glass surface warmer, reducing condensation and preventing mold growth
• Environmental Impact: Less energy for heating and cooling means homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability

At first glance, you may not think of your windows as being that much of a contributor to energy efficiency, but the U.S. Department of Energy cites an eye-opening statistic: “Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.” 

On their recommendation page for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency with replacement windows, they specifically mention that factors like frame and glazing, gas fills and spacers, and type of operation are key considerations to making the best decision. They also advocate for shoppers to look for ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels and to choose gas-filled windows with low-e coatings or windows with a low U-factor for better ther­mal resistance in colder climates, and a low solar heat gain coef­ficient (SHGC) in warmer climates.

Types Of Replacement Windows for Cleveland Homes

At Fairview Home Improvement, we have tried and tested a wide range of available replacement windows, and we’ve settled on a few brands that we find to be consistently high-quality and that have energy-efficiency built in to their offerings. Our skilled team works with you to select the best product and window style for your home and preferences. 

These are the brands and models that we recommend:

Polaris®

Comfort, energy efficiency, durability and ease of operation are the hallmarks of Polaris® replacement windows. These seamless, weather-tight windows help to minimize heat transfer, thereby reducing heating and cooling needs. Polaris® replacement windows are also ENERGY STAR® qualified and are manufactured with high-efficiency EnergySMART® insulated glass panes. They work hand-in-hand with the spacer and sealant to block temperature transfer and reduce condensation. Additional features include: triple pane insulated glass; Argon or Krypton gas fill; and both Heat Mirror™ Low-E film and Low-E glass coatings. Customizations are also available when it comes to your preferred aesthetic–choose from clear, bronze or gray tinted glass.

Alside® Mezzo®

These stylish windows are also durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. Alside® Mezzo® windows offer weathertight performance and uniquely engineered components that are made to reduce heat transfer of energy. Their proprietary HP³™ telescoping sill and Gatekeeper™ sash-to-sill interlock protect against air and water infiltration, which beyond increasing structural stability also ensure that outdoor extremes don’t impact your indoor temperatures and energy usage. 

ProViaⓇ

Replacement windows from ProViaⓇ offer high-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows with virtually unlimited customization options for every imaginable site, space, or style. Beyond offering elegant and stylish window options, over 90% of ProViaⓇ windows are ENERGY STAR® certified–demonstrating their commitment to energy efficiency. They offer an affordable solution to replacement windows for Cleveland homes while also leaving you plenty of room for personal choice. 

Within these three primary brands, homeowners can find a wide range of types of replacement windows that meet their home’s architectural, stylistic, and aesthetic needs. Common styles of windows include double-hung, casement, sliding, picture, awning, hopper, garden, and both bay and bow windows. 

When To Choose Replacement Windows in Cleveland

If you aren’t sure whether or not you need replacement windows for your Cleveland home, here are some signs to look out for and some top reasons why residential windows may need to be replaced:

• High Energy Costs: utility costs that have crept up slowly could point to inefficient windows 
• Poor Window Operation: old, wooden windows and warped vinyl frames can make it difficult to open and close
• Leaking Windows: from very tiny to large and obvious, leaks allow drafts that make your HVAC system work harder
• Fogging Windows: condensation is evidence of broken seals or cracks in the glass that allow insulating gas to escape and moisture to seep in
• Noise Pollution: energy-efficient windows are thicker and so can have a perk of reducing noise

Choose Professionally Installed Replacement Windows in Cleveland 

So you’ve looked through your options and you’ve selected the ideal replacement windows for your home. Now, should you try and DIY the job, or work with an established Cleveland home improvement professional? This is every homeowner’s decision, but it’s key to remember that even the best window won’t perform well if installed poorly. 

Window installation requires training, experience, tools and equipment to ensure proper operation and energy efficiency. If you don’t work with a certified installer, you could risk damage or even end up voiding certain manufacturer warranties. Local installers will also be very familiar with area weather patterns and regional climate considerations that could impact material selection and recommended features for the best and most efficient operation.

Regardless of what you decide, it is definitely vital to take your time when making this investment. Yes, it will cost upfront, but the ultimate energy savings, improved indoor comfort and increased home value will be worth it. Product quality and energy ratings should be your primary considerations, followed by style, color, glass type and other preferences. When you work with a professional replacement window installer, you can rest assured that you will receive expert recommendations, benefit from proper sizing and installation, have access to high-quality products, and have warranties and ongoing support available.

Fairview Home Improvement Is Your Choice for Replacement Windows in Cleveland

If you’re looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, or replace old, outdated, or compromised windows, look no further than the high-quality products available from Alside®, Polaris®, and ProVia®. When you work with Fairview Home Improvement you can find a wide range of energy-efficient windows that will help to improve indoor comfort, energy efficiency and home value. You’ll find that the right windows make a noticeable difference year-round.

At Fairview, our staff is well-versed in the various options and considerations to be aware of when selecting the ideal replacement windows for Cleveland climates and homes. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our selection of replacement windows and get started on your next home improvement project right away!