The average homeowner will purchase replacement windows once in their life. To make yours a worthwhile investment, consider these top factors when researching manufacturers.

First – energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR® certifies windows that meet a specific U-Factor and SHGC rating. U-Factor measures the heat transfer to show how well a window insulates. SHGC, or solar heat gain coefficient, shows the amount of solar energy transmitted through the window. Lower numbers mean more efficient windows. Air infiltration also plays a major role in energy efficiency. This is the volume of air that can infiltrate a window. A lower number equals less air leakage. 

Second – durability. Consider the components that operate and seal the window. What features help the sashes lock together tightly? What kind of weatherstripping seals the gaps? Is there any maintenance required? You can also ask about design pressure rating and water infiltration testing to see how the windows hold up against wind and rain.

Third – the installation quality. Does the installer have photographs of completed jobs or references? Do they abide by all safety and permit regulations? Check their ratings on multiple platforms to see what customers say about the company.

Finally – the warranty. Which window components are covered, and how long does the warranty last? How easy or difficult is the warranty process? Is the warranty transferable?

SoftLite provides durable, ENERGY STAR®-certified windows with an industry-leading warranty. To learn more about SoftLite’s replacement windows, find a dealer near you.