Window Shopping

What you should know before you go.

Did you know 63 million windows are sold annually in the United States and nearly 70% of them are replacement windows?* So if you're looking to update what you've got, or you're buying for the first time, here are a few window buying basics you should know in order to maximize your budget and overall satisfaction.

Energy Efficiency, U-Factors And Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Make sure the windows are certified 'energy efficient' by the National fenestration Rating council(NFRC) and have the Energy star seal. The u-factor is the measurement of how energy efficient the window is. the lower the number, the better. the solar heat gain coefficient is a measure of how much heat penetrates the glass. The lower the number, the better.

Energy Tax Credit: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 offers an energy tax credit for 30% of the cost of the windows, up to $1,500. The .30 ratings are minimum to qualify for the credit. you want the best you can get, so, don't settle for the minimum because energy costs are only going to go up in the future.

Quality Construction and Warranty: Make sure the windows are well-made and have heavy-duty vinyl frames and aluminum reinforcements to keep their shape when temperatures fluctuate. They should also have foam injected into the frames and sashes to give them better insulation properties and keep them from warping or allowing drafts and water inside your home. The windows, should have a lifetime warranty so you won't have to replace them every 5 or 10 years. Purchase directly from the factory so they can fix or replace parts if anything ever does go wrong.

A Reliable, Reputable Company: Choose a strong, sustainable company that is licensed and insured and will be around in the future. The company should have a showroom where you can see fully-sized, installed samples. Remember the contractor's pride in their showroom and their work is indicative of the job they will do in your home. Contact Consumer Affairs and know the company's history of customer satisfaction. Ask for recommendation letters or pictures from previously pleased customers.

Check out these helpful websites:

www.NFRC.org • www.Energy.gov • www.EnergyStar.gov • *www.TriStateWindowFactory.com