Replacement Windows in Albany for Maximum Energy Efficiency

There are several different options available when you’re looking for replacement windows in Albany NY that will maximize energy efficiency and be suitable for our local climate.

Your goal, when looking for the right set of windows, is to combine a good glass option - rated for Albany NY climate - with a frame option built for cold as well as hot temperatures; do to the fluctuating weather in New Albany during the winter and summer months.

And of course you want something that will meet your aesthetic appeal to really make your window project stand out.

In this article, we will show you how to pick windows that are NFRC rated for the Albany area, and how to understand the rating system so you can make an educated decision for all of your future home improvement projects that require window replacements. We will also go over some of our opinions on frame materials as well as manufacturers that we think offer better products based on our non-biased opinion and experience installing windows in Albany.

We’ve been installing residential and commercial replacement windows in Albany for over 10 years and have learned a few things along the way. This bit of information can be useful to DIY home enthusiasts or any homeowner that’s looking to install new windows.

Energy Star

When you’re shopping for energy efficient windows, the first things you want to understand is the Energy Star zone system and which zone you live in. A zone is a geographical area of the US that Energy Star uses to help homeowners determine the most energy efficient window rating for their area. To simply put it, an energy efficient window for Arizona climate will not be the most energy efficient window for New York. So Energy Star breaks up the country into 4 zones Northern, North-Central, South-Central, and Southern.

After knowing your zone, you want to understand the rating system and how energy efficiency is measured. Even though it’s a little technical, the recommended ratings is listed in easy-to-understand tables for every zone, and therefore makes it easy to match window rating labels for the required zone rating without having to be technical.

Lets take a look at the table with ratings recommended for New York weather.

Ideal U-factor ratings for northern climate is 0.25 or less. According to the table, less than or equal to 0.27, equal to 0.28 0.29 0.30 will also work.

Ideal SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) 0.35-0.60 if you have proper working air conditioning. If however cooling the area is a concern, do to whatever reason, an SHGC rating that’s less than 0.32 is better.

Ideal Air Leakage should be less than or equal to 0.30

Take a look at a typical NFRC rating label. This is the label you should look for when shopping for windows.

As you can see, the U-factor rating for the window is 0.27, the SHGC is 0.35, and the Air Leakage is less than or equal to 0.30. Using the blue table above, you can see the window has the recommended ratings for Northern Zone climate and therefore will have better energy efficiency compared to windows rated for other areas. Try to shop around and look for windows with the ideal U-factor, SHGC, and Air leakage ratings to get the maximum energy efficiency from windows in the Albany area.

Appeared first on   Sure Windows

What Type of Windows Should You Buy?

Choosing the right windows is sometimes difficult with the wide variety of choices and configurations. That’s why it’s so important to work with a professional that you like and trust. I cannot emphasize this point enough and this is where so many people get frustrated—and taken to the cleaners.  Many times, salespeople will sell you what’s in their best interest instead of yours. The best window contractor will help you choose the right windows based on performance and most importantly your needs and budget.

So, in order to help you choose the right windows, please remember that each room in your house is different and has different operating and ventilation needs. For example, a slider or casement window makes more sense above a kitchen sink, because either would provide easier operation than a double-hung.
Let’s take a look at some of the different options and possibilities, so that you can figure out what type of windows fit your home best.

Casement Windows –
Casement windows give you unobstructed views top-to-bottom and side-to-side. The primary feature of the casement window is that they are hinged from the sides of the frame and open from the side. They open fully – catching breezes and directing the flow of fresh air into your home. This is one of the primary reasons for considering casement windows.

Now, if you’re wondering where is the best place to use casement windows .It would be if you’re installing windows over a sink, countertop or appliance, you don’t want to lean forward and lift. Casement windows crank open, which makes them ideal for these locations. They’re also great for decks and patios.  You should request folding handles to avoid interfering with your window treatments.

Double-Hung Windows –You can choose double-hung windows without consuming exterior space. The primary feature in double-hung windows is that both window sashes open vertically. The appearance of the double-hung is stacked, so that both sashes can slide past each other. The benefit of the double-hung window with the tilt-wash version means that you may never have to go outside and wash your windows again. The glass openings in the upper and lower sash are typically of equal size. The ability to open both sashes allows for cross ventilation. There is also another added benefit to just being able to open the top sash—you can allow for ventilation and provide additional safety measures for your children.

When considering where to place double-hung windows, as mentioned earlier because they don’t consume much exterior space, they are an excellent choice next to walkways, porches and patios.

Slider Windows –Many people choose slider windows because of the contemporary look they have, which makes them a very popular style for more modern homes. The primary feature in slider windows is that it has two sashes framed side-by-side and functions with both sliding horizontally.  Slider windows are an economical option for filling large openings and allowing maximum viewing.

 Bay or Bow Windows –Bay windows are combinations of three or more windows projecting outward from a room. Bow windows are a variation of bay windows, made up of four or more window units joined at equal angles to form a curve. The primary feature of these windows is that three or more windows are joined together. Typically the center windows are stationary with the outside sections being either casement or double-hung windows.

When considering where to place bow or bay windows—you would need to know that bay and bow windows allow you to maximize space and take advantage of multiple views. It also makes a room appear more open and spacious, increases the flow of light into a home, and can add counter area to a room.

Specialty Windows –There are many different variations of specialty windows to choose from. When it comes to picture, garden, geometric, awning, sky light or roof windows, I would recommend that you consult with a window contractor before deciding. A professional will be able to help you make the best decision regarding value, performance and ventilation for your home.


First published here: What Type of Windows Should You Buy?