Northwest residents tend to be very environmentally conscious. Many homeowners in Bellevue and surrounding areas are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and help protect the environment. There are many ways to reduce your energy usage at home. You can switch to energy-preferred light bulbs and unplug unused appliances and electronics. One often overlooked but highly effective way to help reduce your carbon footprint is to replace your windows.
According to the American Energy Association, up to 60% of energy wasted is a direct result of poor insulation from windows and doors.
Let’s discuss how the right windows can help save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. We’ll also discuss what to look for while shopping for new windows in Redmond, WA.
Double or Triple Paned Glass & Energy Efficient Materials
The density of your windows’ glass plays a major role in its insulation capabilities. Single-pane windows are typically too thin to prevent your heating and air conditioning from escaping. Choosing vinyl or fiberglass windows with double- or triple-pane glass will increase the energy efficiency of your home, help maintain your home’s climate control, and significantly reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling efforts.
Weather Resistant Frames
A major source of poor energy efficiency is warped window frames. Window frames can warp when they are exposed to weather. When you live in the Pacific Northwest, moisture damage is a major concern! Traditional frames hold on to moisture, resulting in rotting and distortion, as well as warping. Long before your window frame starts to rot away visibly, the moisture-induced warping allows drafts to develop. This results in your heating and air conditioning literally going right out the window.
Window materials like vinyl and fiberglass are moisture-resistant. They won’t hold onto moisture. They won’t rot or warp from the rain. By choosing durable, weather-resistant frames, you will drastically reduce the chances of moisture damage and warping.
ENERGY STAR Rating & Strong U-Factor
While searching for the perfect energy efficient windows for your Seattle area home, it’s always important to check the label. Windows with an ENERGY STAR rating have surpassed the highest industry standard for energy efficiency. Signature Window & Door Replacement has partnered with two window companies to provide you the highest quality, highest energy efficiency available. Both Simonton vinyl windows and Infinity From Marvin® fiberglass windows are ENERGY STAR partners.
It’s also important to check the U-factor (u-value) of a window. The EPA recommends that Washington homes use windows with a U-factor of 0.25 or lower. The U-factor is similar to the “miles per gallon” rating for your car. Except in this case, the lower the number, the better it is for your wallet. It lets you know who well a window will insulate your home.
Choosing a Green Manufacturer
Many window manufacturers are establishing more environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes, as well as making environmentally-friendly products. By supporting them, you are doing your part to encourage energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
A Note About Infinity From Marvin® Fiberglass Windows
In 2014, Marvin Family of Brands, owner of Infinity From Marvin®, won the American Business Ethics “Most Ethical Large Company in America” award. They received the award because of their commitment to behave ethically in their community, in relation to the environment, and to sustainability.
Infinity From Marvin® manufactures fiberglass windows featuring their patented pultruded fiberglass Ultrex material. Ultrex is made from silica, an abundant natural resource, which requires significantly less petroleum than other products to produce. Ultrex is produced in the only pultrusion facility which is in complete compliance with the 1990 EPA Clean Air Act.
These are just some of the many reasons why Signature Window & Door Replacement is a proud Regional Exclusive Dealer for Infinity From Marvin® fiberglass windows.
[link award to http://www.marvin.com/our-story/social-responsibility/sustainability?menu=sustainability open in new window]
If you want to learn more about which windows can help you, your community, and the planet, we invite you to call us today at 253-887-7792 or visit our showroom at 1604 15th St SW #110, Auburn, WA 98001. Schedule your free in-home consultation. We serve Puget Sound homeowners from Everett to Lacey. Explore our online presence and discover more about our windows services at our website, where we’re dedicated to assisting you with your specific needs, ensuring you find the perfect solutions for all your window requirements.
