Window Replacement Energy Guide
There are many different types of windows that can add beauty, comfort and warmth to your home. It is important that you select a window that will closely match your home’s decor and still offer energy savings. One of the ways to determine how well a window will protect your home against nature’s fury, is with the “R” rating. Extensive scientific research has been done to determine what materials are best suited for window production.
What Is The “R” Value?
The “R” value points to how well a material or combination of materials resists the elements, also called thermal resistance. In order to determine the “R” value, the “U” value must be found. The “U” value represents how well a material insulates against heat transmission. The actual “R” value formula [R = 1/U] takes into account both heat and cold transmission to determine the quality of the product, or in this case the window. The higher the “R” value, the more thermal resistant the window is.
How Do “R” Values Benefit Me?
Based on the “R” value, you can determine the approximate savings that you will have over a period of time. According to the manufacturer, new R-7 WeatherTite Windows throughout a house will reduce energy costs by at least 40%.
So, if you pay an average energy bill of $300 per month for twelve months, your yearly bill will be $3,600. Once the WeatherTite energy efficient windows are installed your monthly bill would be expected to drop to $180 per month and $2,160 for a 12 month period. Thats a savings of $1,440 for the first 12 months. The savings do not stop after 12 months, but the windows will continue to save you money year after year.
Saving energy is also good for the environment. By insulating your home against the almost unbearable heat of the summer and the bone chilling cold of the winter, you also take some of the load off of our nations energy supply which helps everyone out.
When choosing new windows, it is important to take the “R” value into account in the decision making process. Windows that are poorly made, while they may look nice, will end up costing you money in the longrun.
