The second window material we are focusing on in the ‘Callen Busts the Myth’ series is vinyl. Several homeowners believe the statement “Vinyl windows are the most energy efficient” is true.
It is correct that vinyl windows can be energy efficient. However, the big question is: for how long?
Vinyl is subject to expanding, contracting, or warping, causing window performance to decline rapidly. This is unlike Infinity® from Marvin® Ultrex® fiberglass, which has been proven to expand 87% less than vinyl. Also, vinyl can’t withstand its true shape in drastic temperatures changes, including the glass it holds. And us Wisconsinites know how hot our summers can get and especially how brutally cold our winters can be.
Infinity from Marvin replacement windows are ENERGY STAR® certified and there are a few major factors that play a role in their glass performance:
- U-Factor: measures how well a window keeps heat inside your home. The lower number allows less heat to escape, and the higher number allows more heat to escape.
- Solar Heat Gain: measures how much heat from the sun enters your home. The lower the number, the less heat the window lets in.
- Visible Transmittance: measures the amount of visible light that passes through a window.
Infinity from Marvin also has glazing options that are applied to the glass panes of the windows to boost their energy efficiency and block UV rays. The Low E glass coating is an important element and is chosen based upon the climate you live in.
As the temperature will soon start to drop, utility bills will start to rise. Ultrex provides an insulating barrier against extreme weather temperatures, keeping your home comfortable and helping to reduce heating and cooling costs.
Call us today at 414-867-2207 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free estimate for windows or doors.
