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Energy Efficiency Ratings for Replacement Windows – What Do All Those Letters Mean?

Windows have several energy ratings, as you’ve probably already found out if you’ve been in the market for replacement windows in the Minneapolis area. But all those letters and numbers can get confusing.  R, U, VT and E – what do they all mean?  How can you evaluate a window’s efficiency, especially when you hear that some numbers should be high and others should be low?  Here’s a summary of these ratings.  

Keep  in mind that 30% of a home’s heating loss is through the windows, so once you’ve selected the basic window style and materials you want, comparing the value of windows between manufacturers of similar windows is of utmost importance to determine the overall cost of the window.  A less expensive window might end up costing you hundreds of dollars in the long run in heating costs. 

R Value:  This number is more or less insignificant in a window.  Insulating levels are expressed in R values – this measurement is most appropriately applied to wall and ceiling insulation.  The higher the R value, the more insulation provided. 

U Value (or U Factor):  This number expresses the amount of heat gained or lost through the window.  This number is the reverse of the R value; for instance, a R-10 would have a U-.10 rating.  The lower the U value, the less heat is transfered through the window. 

E Values:  This number measures the amount of energy (which includes both heat and light) admitted through the window.  You want this number to be low if  your goal is to control heat transmission through your windows. 

VT:  VT (or visible transmittance) measures the amount of visible light which enters through the window.  Ratings range from 15% (very shady) to 90% (nearly completely clear).   

Why not let the replacement window professionals at Window Outfitters, Inc. help you find which combination of numbers is the best choice for your home. 

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Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.

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