While sitting near a window watching a football game this weekend at a friend’s condo I noticed a cold breeze of air blowing on my arm. Because it was in the 40’s outside I knew tha air conditioner wasn’t on so my next thought was that the window was open. Well I was almost correct. The cold air was coming from the window but through what looked like a tiny gap between the upper and lower panels and not through an open window. The windows were also an older single pane style which when putting the palm of my hand near one of the panes felt like I had my hand near a block of ice. I imagined the opposite effect would be true during the summer and in both cases my friend has a heat and air system working overtime causing a higher than needed utility bill with an increased carbon footprint.


The EPA states that the inside surface of an inefficient window pulls heat away from your body, so even though the thermostat is on 70 degrees you can still feel chilly in a sweater. During the summer 75 percent of the sun’s heat can come through even double-paned windows that don’t meet Energy Star criteria.

Todays windows are available with options as Low-E coated glass which is designed to maintain your home’s warm, comfortable indoor temperature while keeping the cold temperature out. During the summer Low-E glass reduces heat gain from the sun keeping your home cooler. On the Energy Star website it is stated that updating from single pane to Energy Star rated double pane windows can save a homeowner as much as $313 annually.

Argon Gas is an option and along with Low-E will meet energy code criteria anywhere low thermal numbers are desired.

Windows as the ViewPoint series from Norandex also act as a noise buffer and virtually eliminate condensation by keeping heat and cold from traveling through windows so you enjoy pleasant indoor temperatures.

Drawdy Roofing & Vinyl Siding is the exclusive installation dealer of ViewPoint windows in Southwest Georgia. To learn more about making your home more energy efficient and adding to the beauty of your home give us a call or fill out the online form for a free estimate.

Vince Dettore, VP of Marketing/Business Operations

01/02/2013