Whether you are choosing windows for a new home or trying to cut down on energy costs with energy-efficient windows for your existing home, quality windows offer so many benefits. Window shopping, however, can be confusing! In just the past 20 years, window technology has changed dramatically, bringing new advances in both energy-efficient glass and window assembly. This means new lingo to understand, so this week we’re going to discuss common terms you’ll probably hear when shopping for new or replacement windows in Arlington, VA. • Low-E. Low-E glass features transparent metallic coatings that significantly reduce heating and cooling costs year-round. In the hot summer months, Low-E reflects heat back to the outside of your home, keeping your house cooler. During long, cold winters, Low-E reflects back toward the inside of your home, keeping you and your family warmer. • Argon-filled. High-performing insulated glass units replace the air space between the two panes of glass with a lower conductivity gas, such as argon. Argon and similar gases are denser than oxygen and slow the transfer of heat. Ultimately, this feature helps lower the cost of your energy bills each month. • R-Value. R-Value is a rating that indicates how well a material insulates. The higher the number, the more insulation you are getting and the more money you are saving in energy costs. • U-Value. While R-Value rates how much heat is retained, U-Value rates how much heat is lost. The lower the U-Value, the more energy efficient your home will be.

If you would like to update the windows in your home in Northern Virginia, Roofing & More recommends ProVia® replacement windows. All ProVia windows have Low-E coatings and argon-filled glass, and exceed ENERGY STAR criteria for energy efficiency. Call us at (877) 398-4555 with any questions you may have about replacement windows, or for a FREE in-home window estimate.