Quick Summary
Energy-Efficient Windows Start With An Insulating Frame!
Whether you choose aluminum, vinyl, wood, fiberglass or a combination, an efficient frame is critical!
Choosing Glass Package Is Next
Double-Pane windows are best suited for Houston. Ideally, Cardinal LoE-366 glass which has 3 coats of Low-e and 66% visible light transmission.
Design Choices and Opening Styles
The easy route is to choose the same opening style and colors for a direct replacement of existing windows. But, you can also get creative here.
Can Energy Efficient Windows for Houston Really Make a Difference?
Yes! While all features of energy-efficient windows contribute to the efficiency of the window, the glazing (the glass itself) with a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating is arguably the most important feature.
Here’s why:
- Controlling Heat Transfer: Low-E coatings are microscopic, virtually invisible metallic layers applied to the glass. Their primary function is to reflect infrared (heat) energy. In warm climates like Houston, they reflect heat away from the house, reducing heat gain from the sun and keeping the interior cooler. In cold climates, they reflect heat back into the house, minimizing heat loss and keeping the interior warmer. This directly impacts your heating and cooling costs.
- Protection From UV Light: Low-E coatings also block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which fades furniture, flooring, and other interior furnishings.
While features like multiple panes (double or triple glazing), inert gas fills (argon or krypton) between panes, and insulated frames are crucial for overall performance, the Low-E coating is the most impactful in controlling radiant heat transfer, which is a significant factor in a window’s energy efficiency.
That’s why our favorite glass is the Cardinal Glass – Lo-E366. Three coats of heat deflecting metallic layers with still allowing 66% of visible light so your home is not too dark. You simply can not choose a better glass package for energy efficient windows for Houston.
Key Window Energy-Efficient Ratings to Look For:
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, pay attention to these ratings found on the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) label:
- U-factor: Measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping. A lower U-factor indicates better insulation.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Determines how well a window blocks heat from the sun. A lower SHGC is generally better for hot climates to minimize heat gain, while a higher SHGC might be desired in cold climates for passive solar heating.
- Air Leakage (AL) Rating: Indicates how much air infiltrates through the window. A lower rating (0.3 or below) means less air leakage.
- STC Rating: While not an “energy efficiency factor”, the STC (sound transmission class) will tell you how your new windows will help quiet your home from typical street and neighborhood noise.
Why Trust Houston Window Experts?
- Best People: Houston Window Experts goes to great lengths to hire and continuously train the best people every position.
- Best Products: We have evaluated and installed a lot of window and door products over the years. We have settled on about 2 dozen of the best manufacturers in the industry.
- Best Processes: Our business processes have all be refined and perfected so that our clients always receive the best service from all departments.
What We Don’t Do!
When you choose Houston Window Experts, we know what you don’t want! We have been home improvement services shopping ourselves over the years. Here’s what we don’t offer:
- High Pressure Sales Tactics
- Inferior Products
- No Choice
- Rude Employees
- Sloppy Installation
- Messy Jobsite
Yes, we really have experienced all of the above! You know the type of sales person we are talking about: The high pressure presentation from the sleazy sales person when will not leave without a signature. His/Her Best – Tonight Only price keeps dropping as the presentation wears on.
Along with the pressure is the fact that they only sell one brand. There was no choice. This is “alleged” to be a special product only they can sell.
We have even gone out and removed windows only a year old because the customer did not get what they wanted and were pressured into the sale. Their techniques and business practices lead to bad reviews and a short lived business entity.
If you’re ready for a fresh approach from a professional team offering a great selection of energy efficient windows for Houston from the top manufacturers…
Replacement Window FAQ’s
- What are the most energy-efficient windows for Houston, and how will they save me money?Texas experiences very hot summers and sometimes chilly winters, making energy efficiency a top concern. Homeowners want to know about features like Low-E (low-emissivity) glass, argon or krypton gas fills, double or triple panes, and insulated frames (vinyl, fiberglass, or composite) that can significantly reduce heat transfer, block harmful UV rays, and lower their HVAC costs. They often inquire about ENERGY STAR® ratings and potential rebates or incentives.
- What is the typical cost of replacement windows in Texas, and what does that include? Cost is a major factor. Homeowners seek detailed breakdowns of pricing, including the cost per window (which varies by style, material, size, and features), labor and installation fees, potential permit costs, and disposal fees. They want to understand what’s included in the total estimate and if there are any hidden charges. The average cost can range from $500 to $1,700 per window, with some higher-end options reaching up to $4,000.
- What type of warranty is offered, and what does it cover? A strong warranty provides peace of mind. Homeowners want to know about both product and installation warranties, their duration, what specific issues are covered (e.g., fogging between panes, frame defects), and if the warranty is transferable to a new homeowner in case they sell their house.
- What is the installation process like, and how long will it take? Homeowners are concerned about the installation process, asking about timelines (manufacturing, delivery, and project duration), necessary preparations (e.g., clearing windows), handling of various exterior materials, and cleanupprocedures.
- How do I choose the right window style and material for my home in Texas? Homeowners frequently ask how to choose the right window style and material for their Texas home. They want to know which options (e.g., vinyl, fiberglass, wood; casement, double-hung) offer the best durability, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal for the Texas climate and their home’s architectural style.
