What are the best windows for cold climates

Basically, energy efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to choosing windows for colder climates. Windows have two main parts: the window itself and the frame. There are three parts of the frame that air usually escapes from: the sash, the sill, and the perimeter. The sash is the portion of the window that fits inside the frame and moves up and down or side to side. On double hung windows, there are two sashes that move.

Most of us are familiar with the window sill, the bottom part of the window. And as you may be able to guess, the perimeter runs the entire edge of the window. Wood with vinyl cladding is ideal since it will hold heat best and the vinyl will protect the wood. Vinyl and fiberglass frames are also great, but fiberglass can be more expensive than vinyl and wood.

Whatever material you choose, skip the aluminum window frames. The best way to ensure this is completed correctly is by having your windows installed by trained professionals. When it comes to the window itself, avoid single pane windows. If you live in an area that gets cold winters and hot summers, consider double-glazed windows with a proper solar-gain SHGC coefficient. The window U-value should be the same as cold climates; however, the SHGC value differs according to the side of the house.

Conversely, west and east-side windows should have low SGHC for solar heat gain limits and be small in size. Again, these windows can also contribute to overheating in summer. Tuning the type of glass for specific walls is vital for energy savings and comfort. For instance, south walls may require a different glass than north walls.

In energy-efficient homes, triple glazing windows make sense in cold climates and are great for homes facing noisy locations. Be aware that large east and west-facing windows can create small periods of overheating in summer, so consider using recessed windows with summer shading. If you decide you want to replace your windows, ensure your home is first properly insulated and any leaks fixed. The first step to finding the best window for your cold climate is to determine what window features are most important to you.

The following are features designed specifically for windows used in winter and colder climates:. This means your furnace is working extra hard to keep your home at a semi-comfortable temperature, thus raising your costs. Vinyl and fiberglass frames are better insulators than aluminum because they actively help keep heat in your home.

Fiberglass have similar features to vinyl, but are slightly more expensive.