Replacing the windows in your structure is not an easy or cheap task. Existing windows that are old and inefficient could be costing you more though. The opportunity to upgrade your windows does not come around often but when it does, it is an opportunity for owners to maximize their return.

Energy-efficient windows eventually pay for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs, and sometimes even lighting costs. When properly selected and installed, energy-efficient windows can help minimize your heating, cooling and lighting costs. Improving window performance in your structure involves design, selection and installation.

Kerry Haglund, Research Fellow for the Center of Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota wrote a report titled, “Window Selection Methodologies and Optimization in High-Performance Commercial Buildings”. The report estimates that 39% of commercial heating energy use and 28% of commercial cooling energy use are attributed to windows.

Improvements in window technology have greatly improved the performance of window and glazing systems. The windows that are created today have lower heat loss, less air leakage and warmer surfaces that help to improve occupant comfort while minimizing condensation. With features such as double or triple glazed insulated glass, improved frames and specialized coatings and films, these high-performance windows are effective at reducing heat transfer.

 

Costs and Energy Savings

 

Careful specification of window and glazing systems is essential to the energy efficiency and comfort of all buildings. However, exact savings are difficult to determine because of the large number of variables between buildings as well as climate variations. No two buildings are exactly the same so it is important to do your research before you decide. While upgrading windows in a commercial building requires careful planning, the results can mean financial savings for you and your business. Once you replace the old windows with the new, it will be time to sit back and enjoy the view (and savings).