How does the choice of windows and their position affect cost savings in buildings?

Answer

Windows have a U Value assigned bassed on their efficency to retain thermal barriers. The higher the U Value the LESS efficent the window will be.

New energy codes require not less than a .48 U Factor the high effeciency units run about .38 or .35 is standard Low-E glass.

LOW U-FACTOR GOOD GLASS!!!

The position of the glass, relitive to the sun will allow more or less light, heat and UV rays into a room. If you need to add heat, such as winter time a south facing window (in the northern hemisphere) will help. durring the heat of the summer when you do not need the heat the same window would continue to let the light/heat in and would be a heat load burden on the air conditioning system.

There are thermal payne (most homes have this type if built after 1960s or 1970s), single payne, wood sash, aluminum and vinyl frames. each of these has their own heat transfer properties.

Just remember, the lower the heat transfer rates are the higher the effeciency will be for heating and cooling retention.

Terry

Combination Building Inspector

First answer by Maintain. Last edit by Maintain. Contributor trust: 128 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 13 [recommend question]