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What's the most energy-efficient window?

Window Style In terms of operable windows, hinged-sash windows such as casement and awning windows are typically the most energy efficient as they create a firm weathertight seal when closed.

What can I use for a shed ramp?
What can I use for a shed ramp?

Some Shed Ramp Key Elements The support framing should be at least pressure treated 2x6's spaced 12"" on center. The planking should be pressure...

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Should you insulate an unheated garage?
Should you insulate an unheated garage?

This one's a no brainer. It feels a lot better to work in a garage that's NOT freezing in the winter and roasting in the summer. Insulating a...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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What Kind of Windows Are Most Energy Efficient?

If you’re planning to replace the windows at your home, you likely have a lot of questions. Chief among them, perhaps, is what kind of windows are most energy efficient? After all, one of the main reasons why homeowners choose to replace their windows is to improve their home’s energy efficiency. And even if your primary motivation for replacing your windows is to improve your home’s appearance rather than its thermal performance, you’ll still want to make sure the new windows you’re having installed provide you with the best possible energy efficiency. When determining the energy efficiency of a window, there are a few different factors to take into consideration, such as the window’s style, the frame material, and the overall quality of the window itself. Below, we’ll look at each of these aspects in turn.

Window Style

When it comes to window style, fixed windows or picture windows are the most energy efficient because the sashes are non-operable and therefore are fully sealed to the window frame. This lack of seams and moving parts means that virtually no air can penetrate the windows, which provides impeccable energy efficiency, but does so at the cost of being able to open and close your windows. In terms of operable windows, hinged-sash windows such as casement and awning windows are typically the most energy efficient as they create a firm weathertight seal when closed.

Frame Material

There are many different window frame materials on the market, ranging from vinyl to wood to metal to fiberglass, and more. Of all of these, vinyl tends to be the most energy efficient material as it has better natural insulating properties than fiberglass and metal and won’t warp or deteriorate as wood windows often do over time. Vinyl also has a high R-value, which means it effectively reduces heat transfer—keeping warm air inside your home in the winter and preventing hot outside air from seeping inside your home during the summer months.

Window Brand

While name-brands aren’t everything, it’s important to choose replacement windows that you know are well made. While vinyl may have natural insulating properties, a poorly made vinyl window won’t provide the same energy efficiency as a higher quality wooden or metal window. Likewise, a window that looks great and provides exceptional energy efficiency at first, but then loses its shape after just one four-season cycle is not much of an investment. At American Home Design, we’re proud to install Preservation replacement windows as they provide a great overall value. These windows feature durable vinyl frames and boast the latest and greatest in energy-saving technology, such as polyurethane insulation, low-E glass, and inert gas fills. They also come in a variety of styles, so you can choose windows that look and function just how you want them to while also providing a high level of energy efficiency. To learn more about what makes our Preservation windows among the most energy efficient replacement windows on the market, contact American Home Design today.

Can you put a fireplace in a house that doesn't have one?
Can you put a fireplace in a house that doesn't have one?

A wood fireplace typically will go against a main outside wall so that a proper chimney can be constructed. Talk with your contractor or installer...

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What are the disadvantages of MDF?
What are the disadvantages of MDF?

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Who makes the best house windows?

Top 9 Window Brands Champion Windows: Best for Sunrooms. Castle Windows: Best Warranty. Renewal by Andersen: Best White-glove Service. Milgard: Best Support. Marvin: Best for Skylights. Harvey: Best for Durability. Simonton Windows: Best for Vinyl Products. Pella: Best for Energy Efficiency. More items... •

Champion Windows: Best for Sunrooms

Our rating: 88 out of 100

Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Price range: $350–$800

Founded in 1953, Champion Windows offers multiple window lines in 17 states. Its windows and doors include Energy Star-certified Comfort 365 Window Glass, which has a specialized low-emissivity (Low-E) coating and insulating argon gas. This design blocks roughly 94% of ultraviolet (UV) rays, ensuring your home stays cool during summer and warm in winter. Champion’s ColorBond aluminum window line uses nontoxic heat reflective materials to maintain cool temperatures in your home. Its TimberBond line offers custom wood grain finishes, including cherrywood, dark oak, and English oak. The TimberBond line also uses technology that prevents blistering, peeling, and chipping. Champion Windows provides high-quality sunroom and patio services in addition to its standard windows and doors. The company builds all-season and three-season sunrooms tailored to your home’s architecture with custom-shaped windows and additional features such as fans and lighting.

Pros and Cons of Champion Windows

✔ Custom-builds high-quality sunrooms and enclosed patios

✔ Uses nontoxic, heat reflective materials for wood and aluminum windows

✔ Offers Energy Star-certified glass

✘ Limits pricing information online, as price varies by location

✘ Only operates in 17 states*

*Available in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, and Wisconsin.

Free quote: Get your quote from Champion Windows today

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What is cheaper cement or concrete?

Is cement cheaper than concrete? Cement is not usually cheaper than concrete. This is because cement is the main ingredient of concrete. Once...

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Is it cheaper to build a wood shed or metal shed?
Is it cheaper to build a wood shed or metal shed?

When it comes to your budget, a metal shed is going to be more affordable than a wooden alternative. There are a couple of reasons for this lower...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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How do you anchor a skid shed?
How do you anchor a skid shed?

How to Properly Anchor a Shed: The Only Guide You Need Drill or dig the holes, tamp some gravel into the bottom. Slide a sonotube in to form it up....

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These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

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What should I side my shed with?
What should I side my shed with?

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