It is a tough reality that the cost of living in Canada continues to increase, and energy costs are not exempt from this equation. The increased costs of necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing mean that Canadians are having to stretch their finances even further, and importantly, save money where it can be. This is why the role of doors and windows in improving a building’s energy performance cannot be overstated. Windows and doors can account for as much as 25% of a home’s energy loss!
There are some telltale signs that it may be time to look into more efficient windows and doors. Is there a draft coming in through the door/window? Are they single pane? Are your heating and cooling appliances running non-stop and your energy bills are high? These are all indicators that it may be time to upgrade to more energy efficient options.
So how do you know if the products you are ordering are energy efficient? There are a few indicators to look for:
U-Value/U-Factor: You may be familiar with the term R-Value as it refers to the energy loss of home’s structure. U-Value is a similar calculation, but is specific to glass. U-Value is a measure of how much heat flow or heat loss occurs through the glass. The lower the U-Value, the more insulated and efficient.
Energy Star: Many of us have seen this popular blue logo, but what does it mean? Energy Star is a symbol for energy efficiency in Canada and the USA. This logo is a simple way to find an energy efficient product that comes from credible and unbiased research.
Still unsure what to look for? The easiest way to determine your window and door needs is to speak to a knowledgeable and trustworthy industry professional. Arcana Windows and Doors prides itself on being an industry expert and can guide you through your window and door needs. If you are in Hamilton, Dundas, Guelph, Burlington, Mississauga, Ancaster, Oakville, Brantford, or surrounding areas, contact us today to book your free consultation.
Bonus! Until April 30th, 2024, Arcana is offering an additional 10% off all new projects (terms and conditions apply).
