Windows can account for 10 percent to 25 percent of your energy bill. If your house is among the nearly half of all U.S. homes with single-pane windows, consider replacing them with high-performance glass that will add a fresh look and decrease your energy costs. In addition, new windows can increase the safety of your home as older models can easily be forced open. Here are some tips on selecting the best windows for your home.

Materials

• When it comes to windows, price, aesthetic and level of maintenance will determine whether you choose vinyl, fiberglass, wood or composite.
• If you want zero maintenance, go with vinyl. These windows come in a variety of color choices and wood grain laminates, are less expensive and once they’re installed, you’re done – no painting or staining is required.
• If you want to customize the window trim with paint or stain, go with wood or fiberglass.
• Different window hardware (handles and locking mechanisms) are also available – so you can choose bright brass in one room and antique brass in another.
• As with any product, brand matters. Ask your installer which brand they recommend and why.

Pricing

•  Vinyl starts at $400/window installed (double pane), while wood and fiberglass are nearly double that at $750/window. And keep in mind, once you have the wood or fiberglass window installed, you’ll still incur the cost of paint or stain.
• Double pane windows are the most popular, but triple-pane is also available. They cost about $50 more per window installed, but offer more energy savings, and if sound insulation is important, this is the way to go.

Energy savings

• Look for the Energy Star rating. It’s still the way to go, even though tax credits are no longer being offered.
• Windows typically range from a .28 - .35 U-value (there are windows that are .5); the lower the number the higher the energy efficiency.
• In colder climates, a U-value of 0.35 or below is recommended. In warm climates, look for windows with double glazing and spectrally selective coatings to reduce heat gain. In temperate climates, look for a low U-value and low solar heat gain co-efficiency (SHGC).
• Air leakage ratings of 0.3 cubic feet per minute or less are recommended.
• Double-pane windows with low-e coating (argon gas-filled panes and low emissivity) on the glass will reflect radiant heat back into the room during colder months.
• If you’re in an older home and don’t want to lose your leaded glass windows, consider adding a traditional storm window to the exterior for added energy savings.

Installation and maintenance

• Reputation and experience is key when it comes to window installation. If installed incorrectly, windows will leak air and water can penetrate the seal leading to mold or wood rot.
• Window grids can be installed inside or outside the glass, but consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance in order to make the best decision for your home.
• Window installers can handle five to 10 windows per day on average so disruption can be kept to a minimum.
• The installation crew will need to come inside the home, so if you have valuable art on the walls or high-end furniture nearby, consider removing it yourself just in case.
• Busiest times of year for window installers are April – May and September – October.