Resources Offer Paths To Efficient Windows

By Arlene Stewart

The Efficient Window Collaborative has released three new “tool kits” for builders, designers and window manufacturers this spring.  Located at www.efficientwindows.org, these tool kits bundle information from the popular consumer web site and expand it for use by these pivotal audiences.  Funded by the US Department of Energy, EWC resources are available free of charge, are not product specific and are very user-friendly.

The Manufacturer Tool kit provides web-based answers to the question “Why energy-efficient windows?” Essentials about consumers demand, code requirement, green building programs and utility and tax incentives can assist manufacturers in staying competitive.  Frequently asked questions about National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) labeling and ENERGY STAR windows are also answered.  Lastly, the Tool kit gathers resource materials designed to enhance sales.

The Designer Tool kit is also web-based for those architects and residential designers who wish to include the energy performance of windows, doors, and skylights in their considerations.  It includes similar information in essentials as the Manufacturer Tool kit, but provides additional information on appropriate window specifications as well as proper design details and practices.

The Builder Tool kit is nine-pages, jammed packed with concise facts to help builders make the sale to upgraded windows.  Information includes case studies for hot and code climates, financing tips, incentives and benefits lists and technical explanations of window ratings.

The Efficient Windows web site itself is divided into roughly three parts.  The Window Selection tool allows consumers to compare window performance based on region, type of construction and window type.  Window Technologies answers common questions about glazing, frame or operating types as well as low-E coatings, gas fills and spacers. Energy and cost savings, improved comfort, reduced fading and condensation, increased light and view are all covered in the Benefits section. Subsections include information on frequently asked questions, resources and publications.  The EWC web site averages 1,250 hits per day with over 2.5 million consumer visits since its inception in 1998.  The Efficient Windows Collaborative is a project of the Alliance to Save Energy that is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Program.

Those looking for information on commercial applications should visit the Windows for High Performance Buildings web site. Developed by the same team as the EWC web site, www.commercialwindows.umn.edu has additional information unique to commercial windows such as day lighting and glare.  Topics also include insulation-filled glazings, evacuated and smart windows and building integrated photovoltaics, often with case studies of their applications.

Arlene Stewart, writing for the Efficient Windows Collaborative, is the owner of AZS Consulting, Inc., a member of the BA of North Central Florida and a nationally known energy code advocate promoting the use of state-of-the-art window and glazing technologies to construct high performance homes and buildings.  The views and opinions expressed in this article and in materials of the Collaborative do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Government or any agency thereof.

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