See Chapter 6, Room Additions in the book Green Remodeling for more details. 

 

 

 

 

 

Green Windows for Additions Checklist

  • Contact your local window suppliers and become familiar with which windows are available in your area.
  • Install only low-e windows
  • Select insulated fiberglass frames if available
  • Carefully install windows and door to eliminate any air leaks.
  • Understand the prevailing winds on the site and locate windows for best ventilation.
  • Install different windows types based on building orientation.
  • Choose windows and doors made from FSC certified wood
  • Replace all existing windows with the best windows you can afford
  • Explore super windows

Green Additions/Remodel Best Practices

Green Windows for Additions

Windows play a big role in passive solar design and the energy efficiency of homes. Window technology has come a long way over the past ten years and there are many different windows on the market today. Standard windows are made a double pane, or even triple pane glass. In addition to the glass, windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, or recently, a composite of wood and plastic.

Note: The best windows have the lower "U-value".

Double-paned windows - windows can be formulated with either single, double, or triple panes of glass. Typically, the more panes of glass, the better the windows will insulate your home.

Low-E (Low-Emissivity) Windows - Low-E coatings, virtually unnoticeable to the eye, are installed inside the air space of a double-paned window; they help prevent heat from escaping through the glass in winter by reflecting it back in.

  • High transmission low-E - best for cold climates
  • Selective transmission low-E - ideal in mixed climates
  • Tinted low- E - best for hot climates

Superwindows - windows with one or two thin plastic films suspended between the panes of glass, effectively making them triple or quadruple glazed.