November 22, 2023

About Windows and Doors, what makes it ENERGY STAR?

ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors, and skylights:

• Are manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner,
• Are independently tested, certified, and verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and
• Have NFRC ratings that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Though ENERGY STAR does not require any specific technologies, certain product features are common in many certified products.

Performance Criteria

Windows, doors and skylights protect you from the elements just like a winter coat. But like a winter coat, you should pick the windows, doors and skylights that make the most sense for your climate. While some windows, doors and skylights are better at keeping you warm, others excel at keeping you cool.

Framing Materials

ENERGY STAR certified windows come in a variety of framing materials.

• Fiberglass frames are strong, durable, low maintenance, and provide good insulation. Fiberglass frames can be either hollow or filled with foam insulation.
• Vinyl frames are low maintenance and provide good thermal insulation. Sections may be hollow or filled with foam insulation. Wide vinyl sills may be reinforced with metal or wood.
• Aluminum frames are durable, low maintenance, recyclable, and typically have at least 15% recycled content. Frame design typically includes thermal breaks to reduce conductive heat loss through the metal.
• Wood frames are strong, provide good insulation, and are generally favored in historical neighborhoods. The exterior surfaces of many wood windows are clad (or covered) with aluminum or vinyl to reduce maintenance.
• Combination frames use different materials separately throughout the frame and sash to provide optimal performance. For example, the exterior half of a frame could be vinyl while the interior half could be wood.
• Composite frames are made of various materials that have been blended together through manufacturing processes to create durable, low maintenance, well-insulated windows.

 

VISION has the ability to provide exceptionally quick, new product / program development cycle times. Contact us.

 

Source: ENERGY STAR

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