The Best Windows for Cold Climates

Windows play a vital role in regulating home temperature, especially in cold climates. Selecting the best windows for a cold climate is paramount to achieving energy efficiency and home comfort.

With 30% of a home’s energy being lost through windows, investing in the right type of windows can save you a lot of money in the long run.  For example, windows with Low E-glass and warm edge spacers can help optimize energy efficiency and ensure home comfort.

Low E-glass (short for low-emissivity glass) is a top contender when considering window glass for cold climates. 

Low-E glass features a thin metallic coating invisible to the naked eye, designed to minimize the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light passing through the glass without compromising visible light. This coating helps keep the cold out and the heat in, making Low E-glass an excellent choice for cold climates. Unlike regular glass, Low E-glass reduces heat loss while permitting ample natural light.

Choosing the Best Window Spacers

Window spacers play a crucial role in thermal insulation. Warm edge spacers, typically made from insulating materials, are designed to maintain the window panes' gap and reduce heat transfer. Warm edge spacers are made of insulating plastic composite material, which makes them great at minimizing heat transfer and helping to prevent condensation. These spacers help prevent condensation build-up and heat loss, making them ideal for cold climates. 

While the type of glass is essential, the spacers - the components that keep the glass panes apart - are equally critical. Their superior insulating properties make them ideal for cold climates.

How Can I Insulate My Windows for the Winter?

Insulating your windows for the winter involves a few steps:

• Applying window insulation film: This clear plastic film sticks to your window's interior, creating an insulating air pocket. It's inexpensive, easy to install, and can be removed when warmer weather returns.
• Using weatherstripping: Weatherstripping seals gaps around windows, preventing cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.

Installing window insulating panels: These panels offer an extra layer of insulation and can be custom fit to your window's size.

Considering Performance Factors

U-Factor

Several performance factors can determine the best windows for cold climates. One such factor is the U-Factor, which measures the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat flow. A lower U-Factor signifies a more energy-efficient window.

Energy-STAR

Next, Energy STAR ratings can also guide you. Windows that earn the Energy STAR label have undergone rigorous testing and met strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Air infiltration rates

Air infiltration rates also matter. They denote how well a window prevents air leakage. A lower air infiltration rate means the window has fewer drafts, which is essential for maintaining indoor warmth in cold climates.

Other Things to Consider about Climate Conditions

If you're in an area with milder weather, consider double-pane windows with a moderate U-Factor and air infiltration rate. They offer balanced insulation and ventilation.

Triple-pane windows with low U-Factors, low air infiltration rates, and Energy-STAR certification would be your best bet for harsher winters.

Windows with a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) are advisable in regions with hot summers. These windows can block unwanted solar heat gain while providing excellent insulation against the cold.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, if you’re looking for energy-efficient windows that will provide your home with more protection against the cold, always consider the U-Factor, Energy-STAR certification, and air infiltration rates when choosing windows for a cold climate. Remember, the right choice depends on the specifics of your local weather conditions and the overall climate.