One of the most common questions about windows is, “Are THESE windows made for our climate?”
Of course, not everyone has a good answer to that. Fortunately, at Wrightway Home Improvements, we have a great answer. It starts with M-A-R-V-I-N. Marvin Infinity is not only designed and built on the foundation that is Marvin, their windows come from the tundra of Northern Minnesota where winter is every bit as harsh as it is in the Fox River Valley and Appleton areas.
Replacing Windows for Energy Efficiency
As we get ready to cross the great annual divide of the summer solstice, the days are creeping slowly toward mid-winter and winter will be here soon enough. With energy prices continually in limbo, now is the time to think about how to make your home as energy efficient as it can be.
Windows let light and air into your home. Unfortunately, inefficient windows can also bring in the cold, driving up heating costs. Replacing them with new energy efficient replacement windows will make your home more comfortable and reduce energy consumption. To find a good replacement window, consider the following factors.
Choose your Window Materials carefully
The most common replacement windows have vinyl or aluminum frames, but both materials have drawbacks. Vinyl expands and contracts at a much higher rate than glass, which can cause seal failures and air leakage. Aluminum is significantly more conductive than other materials; causing heat and cold to be transferred indoors.
A better choice is Ultrex® fiberglass, used in Infinity® Replacement Windows from Marvin. Ultrex fiberglass is eight times stronger than vinyl, expands and contracts at the same minimal rate as glass, and is 500 times less conductive than aluminum, making it an excellent choice for energy efficiency and durability.
Look for Independent Certifications
Several organizations provide independent ratings of a replacement window’s energy efficiency.
ENERGY STAR is a program that recognizes companies and products that help Americans save energy. When your windows are ENERGY STAR certified, you know that they offer the best in energy conservation technologies.
Another energy efficiency rating comes from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC is an independent organization that performs research and testing to find the industry’s most energy efficient windows and doors.
All Infinity from Marvin products are NFRC rated and have a low .30 U-value, which measures the amount of heat transferred through a window, the lower the u-value the more energy efficient the window. Infinity products are also ENERGY STAR compliant in all regions of the United States.
Insist on Quality Installation
A high-quality installation is critical to ensuring years of energy efficient, hassle-free performance from your new replacement windows. Look for replacement window companies with years of experience and a great local reputation from their previous customers. All Infinity installing retailers are respected, experienced window replacement professionals providing you with the highest quality installation and service.
It seems a little early to be having a conversation about the heating season, but it’s always just around the corner. Don’t let another year pass without getting your windows taken care of.
To learn more about Marvin Infinity Replacement Windows, visit us at www.WrightwayBuilt.com. We have proudly served homeowners in the Appleton, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, and the surrounding areas since 1977.