Maryland Windows

Maryland Windows

How to Understand Maryland Window Replacement Choices

Small as Maryland is, the western mountains average 50 fewer freeze-free days than the eastern parts of the state. Likewise, the 110-inch average snowfall total in Garrett County means much greater heating needs than homes in Baltimore County. So your choice of replacement windows in Maryland takes a bit of research. Look for the ENERGY STAR label as you shop, and learn how to interpret these ratings on it:

U-Factor

The whole window assembly, not just the glass, gains and loses heat. The rate at which it does this is called the U-factor. A home in Oakland needs a lower U-factor than one in Baltimore or Washington D.C. But the U-factor is just one of several ratings to balance.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

Replacement windows in Maryland don't need to radiate as much solar heat through the glass as one in Vermont would. But again, one in Oakland will need more than one in Cambridge or Frederick. Lots of east and west-facing windows? A high SHGC may be too much of a good thing! North facing windows provide little SHGC; unshaded south-facing windows provide a favorable winter SHGC.

Visible Transmission (VT)

Because double-hung or sliding windows have more frame area for an equivalent sized fixed, awning, or casement window, they transmit less light. They can also interfere with the view.

Air Leakage (AL)

This rating measures air that passes through cracks in the window assembly. Some labels lack this rating.

Condensation Resistance (CR)

This measures resistance to condensation on the glass inside the home. Again, this may not be on the label.

An Valuable Free Download

Whether east or west, RESFEN can help you calculate customized ratings for any Maryland window replacement.

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