subject: High R-value windows can save you more money and more energy [print this page] I know that Energy Star labeled windows and appliances are "energy efficient" - in some way. But what I really need to understand in order to save real money and save the most energy for the fastest payback on my home improvements? Understanding high R-value windows, compared to Energy Star and dual pane windows, will help.The reason is very simple. Those responsible for saving big energy bucks for mega-buildings they either own, run or construct know that wading and sifting through (sometimes boring) information on the various ways to save energy is, in reality, like mining for gold - you find a nugget here and a nugget there - that, when actually put into play, starts adding up. And like mining for gold nuggets, it represents real money when you are all done.So what are those nuggets? It's all about facts and figures. A lot about energy savings and energy efficiency standards and requirements is hard to understand. Yet, something as simple as understanding what R-value means - The R-value of your windows can play a huge role in determining what your monthly energy costs will be.Homeowners need to ask one questions when considering replacing their new windows: what's the R-value - versus just responding to a sales pitch or something simple like an Energy Star label rating that says "Hey, this is a better deal energy-wise." It's much like the fine print on contracts. Way too much trouble... or is it?Rather than just reading and responding to an Energy Star label, isn't it time you took the reins in hand and made some key decisions for yourself, your family, and your budget?R-values are simple: It measures the thermal resistance and insulating values of a material, like a wall or a window. It tells you how well something keeps heat in and cold out. Not too complicated, right? Simply, the higher the R-value of you windows or wall, the better.It's not rocket science. High R-value windows will save you more money because it means you will keep more of your heating and cooling inside your home. It's just that simple.Still, homeowners continue to buy dual pane windows - with only an R-2 or R-3 (R-value) rating - when, they could purchase super-insulating windows, with ratings from R-5 on up, for just a little more and, in turn, realize bigger savings each and every month. It's called: payback - You want your home improvements to pay off - fast.
High R-value windows can save you more money and more energy
