When shopping for new windows, you’ll want to compare what one company offers over another. But if you just go by what the product consultant says, it may be pretty hard to see the difference – every company says their product is the best.
This is where you may want to rely on the Energy Ratings (ER) system.
A window’s ER rating is calculated on three factors: solar heat gains, heat loss through frames, spacers and glass, and air leakage heat loss.
There are a few things to consider when comparing ER numbers for Canadian windows and doors.
Fixed windows have a higher Energy Rating than operable ones. There is less air leakage and heat loss in a window you can’t open. Make sure you compare windows from the same category, as numbers in different categories will be greatly different.
High-performance windows on the market feature different add-ons such us spacers, low-E coating, and gas fill, and may provide positive ER numbers, even for operational windows.
The ER system is a big factor in providing you with the information about the performance of windows. It is a rating based purely on a window’s performance – regardless of what materials it was built with.
One thing the ER value doesn’t take into consideration is the STC or the sound transmission coefficient, as it technically doesn’t contribute to a unit’s performance. But soundproof windows may be of importance to your replacement, so be sure to ask about the STC rating if it isn’t provided.
Another important thing to remember is that no matter how good the replacement windows are, their performance and efficiency can be completely nullified as a result of a bad or improper installation. To make sure your money doesn’t go to waste, make sure the company you decide on has window installers that work to CSA standards and follow all code as necessary.
Learn more about replacement vinyl windows:
Find out how much new windows should cost
See all the window styles we offer
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