Window Options: Choosing the Right One for Your Climate Zone

Every home has different window insulation needs. Two of the things you need to consider when buying replacement windows in Albuquerque are its orientation and your climate zone. To get you started on finding the right windows that offer optimum performance, we’ve listed some requirements you need to consider, depending on your climate zone:

Cold Climate
For those in the Northern zone, such as Santa Fe, Phoenix, you need windows manufactured for the cold climate. When buying replacement windows, choose a product with a U-factor of ≤0.30. You don’t need to be very picky when it comes to a window’s SHGC. However, if you’re going to get a window with an SHGC of ≥0.40, its U-factor should be ≤0.32.

Warm Climate
Those living in Tucson, Arizona, experience a warm climate as Pima County is in the Southern zone. Unlike those in the Northern zone, you have mostly cooling needs. The right windows for your home have a U-factor of ≤0.60 and an SHGC of ≤0.27

Mixed Climate
If you live in Bernalillo County, Phoenix, you’re in the North/Central zone, which has a mixed climate. This includes the state’s most populous city, Albuquerque. For your home, choose products with an SHGC of ≤0.40 and a U-factor of ≤0.32. If you’re experiencing overheating problems during the warm season, you may consider buying windows with an SHGC of ≤0.30. This may, however, decrease free solar heat gain during winter.

Finding the right windows, such as casement windows in Albuquerque, is easy when you know the energy performance ratings to look for in relation to the climate your area experiences.

Whether you need windows for a cold, warm, or mixed climate, you can depend on Dreamstyle Remodeling to help you find the perfect product for your home. Don’t just buy any type of window. Get one that offers sufficient insulation so you can increase your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Fill out our contact form or call us to get a free quote.