image of exterior window of PS buildingSBVC saves thousands of dollars a year by selecting high performance windows that also contribute to lower energy costs due to the placement of windows in key locations that minimizes the need for using overhead lighting.

Just like in your home, selecting high performance windows (and their strategic locations within your house) provides a variety of benefits such as: 

 

Heating & Cooling Season Savings

Low-emittance coating, gas-fills, and insulating spacers and frames result in a lower rate of non-solar heat loss/gain (U-factor), meaning less winter heat loss. Many low-emitting coatings also reduce solar heat gain. 

 

 

Improved Daylight & View

Beyond the obvious nature of minimizing use of overhead lighting, many low-emitting coatings can reduce solar heat gain significantly with a minimal loss of visible light 

 

 

Improved Comfort

With a low U-factor, window temperatures are more moderate. With a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), there is less discomfort from the summer sun.

 

 

Less Condensation

Frame, spacer and glazing materials that resist heat conduction do not become as cold and this results in less condensation.

 

 

Reduced Fading

Coatings on glass or plastic films within the window assembly can significantly reduce the ultraviolet (UV) and other solar radiation which causes fading of fabrics and furnishings.

 

 

Lower Mechanical Equipment Costs

Using windows that reduce solar heat gain (low SHGC) may allow for smaller, less expensive cooling equipment. Windows with a very low U-factor may ensure winter comfort even without the need for heat registers near the windows.



(Reference: Efficient Windows Collaborative – Regents of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus, College of Design, Center for Sustainable Building Research)