Choosing windows / Discussions

What window frame material is best in the long run?

...windows with double pane windows. I live in Sacramento, Ca where summer temperatures exceed 115 degrees Farinhight, and winters freeze. Choosing the right window frame is a big part of finding the best performing window. In a warmer climate you are not faced with the same extreme differential in temperatures as cold cl...

Posted by Charles Schumaker March 12, 2025 Windows and doors 1 response

How do I get a free energy audit?

...windows?  They need to be pretty bad to justify the cost of replacing all the windows in a home, I would suggest you take a look at this page here first about when to replace windows and when to repair them first to make sure that's really the best option. 

Posted by Rick Bittman May 27, 2021 How to Find Qualified Green Building Professionals 1 response

How do you know when to replace old windows?

...windows are fogged between the panes.  I don't know if I need replacement complete windows, or if I should try to just replace the glass in the problem windows.  I have had some trim work done over the years.  All the commercials I see talk about UV ray protection.  We have just plain glass, I think.  I have read quite...

Posted by Dawn Thomason March 22, 2022 Windows and doors 1 response

What is the best way to seal around windows?

...windows and door on the outside. Now I'm wondering if there is any insulation around any of the  windows and doors that were all installed about ten years ago. My question is should I stuff the gaps with rockwool and seal it with tape on the inside?  Any suggestions will help. A good place to start is our page about Ho...

Posted by Bryan Squirrell Oct. 8, 2019 Windows and doors 1 response

How do you calculate window height and location for passive solar heating?

I couldn't see the answer in a search - apologies if this has already been covered. If I know that at the winter solstice the sun will be at an elevation of 20 degrees, my south facing (northern hemisphere) glazing is 4 metres high (bottom to top of windows) - then what is furthest point the sun will reach to into the...

Posted by Daniel Gardener Sept. 12, 2019 Passive solar home design 1 response

If a passive house is designed well is it worth the extra cost for Low E window coatings?

...windows be appropriate without the Low E coating?  The Low E coating does reduce the solar gain even if you choose a coating designed for the northern climate.  (I am in Ontario 44 degrees north).  My application would have 5x5 ft fixed windows with 5x2 foot awning style windows below and above for ventilation. Low-E c...

Posted by Joe Van Kuren June 7, 2019 Passive solar home design 1 response

What is the best way to frame window openings when adding exterior insulation?

...windows and to reduce thermal bridging through the rough opening, they are best set inside a bit. You can see a thermal image of heat loss through windows on this page. And have you chosen windows yet? We have a page on how to choose the best windows and what to look for in window performance. Choosing triple pane wind...

Posted by Anwas Qwelten May 30, 2019 Windows and doors 1 response

What windows should you use when trying to build a Passive House?

...windows will be warmer than doubles, so less condensation will form which will help safeguard the interior wood. here are other pages that may be of value: Understanding window performance How to install windows properly Low-E glass windows can significantly improve energy efficiency

Posted by Raoul Lions Jan. 25, 2019 Windows and doors 1 response

How do you replace windows in a double stud wall house?

...windows on the north side of the home. Is there anything special that should be considered to expand the size of the windows by the builder? If we install triple pane windows, do I still need to install  double windows for each opening to retain the envelope? I am looking for a builder in SE Wi who is familiar with the...

Posted by Sasha June 25, 2018 Windows and doors 3 responses

How do you know when its time to replace windows?

...windows unnecessarily, even by well-intentioned contractors, but just do that math – how much will it cost to purchase new windows, remove and dispose of old ones, install new windows and repair finishing and trim inside the house and out. Now figure how much energy will you save with new windows compared to your exist...

Posted by Ted Dec. 11, 2017 Windows and doors 1 response

Is it worth investing in triple-pane windows?

...windows and when to fix them to be sure you really need to. Sometimes they aren’t as bad as you think and repairing them may be a feasible option. We also have a detailed page on how to choose the right windows, but the short story is as follows: Triple pane windows from our research will usually pay for themselves in ...

Posted by K.P. July 8, 2017 Windows and doors 2 responses