As luxury architecture moves toward greater sustainability, modern engineering has advanced how well windows can contribute to a home’s energy efficiency. Today, architects have access to a range of cutting-edge window technologies that enhance thermal performance and contribute to sustainable methods without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. We want to introduce you to six energy-efficient window lines that offer design flexibility, durability, and, most importantly, a reduced carbon footprint. With these window solutions, architects can meet clients’ eco-friendly demands, and homeowners can enjoy the convenience of a well-insulated home.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows For Your Next Residential Project is Essential
Selecting energy-efficient windows isn’t just a good choice—it’s absolutely necessary. Architects should consider the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) requirements. The NFRC provides standardized ratings for the energy performance of windows, doors, and skylights that enable architects to easily identify fenestration products that meet energy-efficiency requirements.
- U-factor (thermal transmittance) measures window insulation efficiency. The requirements for U-factor often change depending on location and climate.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures the levels of transferred radiation. In hot climates, where limiting heat gain is crucial, a lower SHGC (e.g., 0.25 or lower) is required. In colder climates, a higher SHGC (e.g., 0.40) might be acceptable to allow for passive solar heating.
- Visible Transmittance (VT) measures the amount of visible light that passes through the window. While the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) doesn’t have requirements for private homes, architects should still consider this factor to meet a homeowner’s personal preferences.
California architects must also abide by the state’s strict Title 24 requirements. While these regulations are more rigid than the NFRC requirements, they’re implemented to ensure that architectural practices protect California’s environmental health. The following are some examples of regulations that CA architects must uphold:
- Fenestration products must be certified and tested to meet all energy performance standards.
- CALGreen requires architects to choose window and door solutions that minimize VOC emissions, which affects the paints and finishes that they can select for a product.
Depending on the home’s location and the regional climate, architects may be required to select windows and doors that have a U-factor as high as .3
What Makes Windows Energy-Efficient?
Fenestration engineering has brought us several revolutionary solutions for developing energy-efficient windows. From select materials to glass features, plenty of window elements can help boost energy sustainability.
- Wood frames: Wood is one of the most efficient materials on the market. Because wood has low thermal conductivity, it does not transfer heat as efficiently as aluminum or steel. This characteristic makes wood a natural insulator and the perfect choice for an energy-efficient window model.
- Low U-Factor: The U-factor measures how effectively a window insulates. The lower the U-factor, the more efficient the window is at blocking heat from entering. Generally, the U-factor value ranges from .2 to 1.2, so windows on the lower end of the spectrum will better support energy-efficient fenestration.
- Window glazing: Window models with two or three glass panes are designed to reduce heat transfer. Their energy efficiency can be even more enhanced with double or triple glazing, which involves filling the pane spaces with an inert gas like argon or krypton to decrease heat transfer further.
- Low-E Coatings: Low-E coatings, which are thin, virtually invisible layers of metallic oxide, are an additional method for improving the energy efficiency of your windows. Selecting window models with a low-emissivity coating will lower energy costs by reflecting infrared light away from the building and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
6 Energy-Efficient Window Models To Reduce Heat Transfer
Awake 05 Series Casement & Awning
For architects seeking a classic window design, Awake’s 05 Series Casement & Awning windows won’t disappoint. Designed to meet grand compositions, these windows with ultra-narrow sightlines are capable of large, extensive sizes. Awake’s NFRC test-size casement and awning have a low u-value of .36 (LowE3 w/ argon), making them an incredibly efficient and compliant solution for warmer climates. Made with dual-seal silicone insulated glass, this fenestration solution has achieved incredible energy-efficient efficacy.
Marvin Signature® Ultimate Windows
All of our Marvin window solutions are excellent choices for sustainability, but the Signature® Ultimate collection takes the cake for blending efficiency and durability. With an aluminum exterior and wood interior, architects can introduce warmth into the home while preserving resilience against any outdoor climate conditions. Best of all, it features two panes of glass with Low E coatings and argon insulating gas, blocking ultraviolet radiation and boosting its insulation abilities.
Andersen A-Series Windows
Boldly labeled as the most energy-efficient Anderson window solution available, the A-Series is not one to shrug at. Engineered with patented Fibrex® composite material and your choice of wood interior, these windows have been developed for maximum thermal performance. These windows are also built with triple-paned glass, providing the ultimate solution for lowering the U-factor. Finally, to further demonstrate their reliability, the casement and picture windows in this line are certified by Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) as a building block for creating net-zero structures.
MI Vinyl V3000 Series Windows
Sturdy, energy efficient, and aesthetically beautiful, our Milgard Vinyl windows are a favorite among architects and homeowners alike. Each model features a high-performance Low-E coating and a gas fill between glass panes, shutting out ultraviolet radiation with ease. With 14 rich colors to choose from, this series is a popular choice for those looking for customizable and high-efficiency windows.
Milgard Ultra™ Series Windows
For homeowners seeking a minimal-upkeep window solution, our Milgard Ultra™ Series windows are for you! Designed with long-lasting vinyl, these windows are both energy-efficient and low-maintenance. The meticulously selected material effectively reduces heat transfer, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and lower the homeowner’s energy costs. The non-porous vinyl is also easy to clean compared to other materials. Plus, these windows are warp, rot, and swell-resistant to fight any weather changes throughout the year.
Jeld-Wen EpicVue® Wood Windows
Last but certainly not least, our Jeld-Wen EpicVue wood windows offer peak contemporary luxury without sacrificing energy efficiency. Produced with exclusive AuraLast® pine and extruded aluminum, these windows offer plenty regarding safety, structure, and strength. However, their true point of interest is the glass. Choose a direct-set window as wide as ten feet, and you can expect LoĒ³-366® glass for unbeatable energy savings, Neat® glass for effortless cleaning, and Preserve® glass for protection during construction.
Discover ABSi’s Energy-Efficient Window Solutions: The Perfect Fit For A Luxury Estate
Associated Building Supply Inc. is proud to offer architects and homeowners a wide selection of energy-efficient windows to meet their sustainability needs. Our team is committed to working closely with architects and homeowners to deliver their desired results. From triple-paned glass to UV-blocking technology, ABSi offers the best sustainable methods on the market. Contact us today to be matched with a window solution for your high-end residential project.
