Energy efficiency is increasingly on the minds of homebuyers, who see it as not only an immediate money-saving feature, but also a long-term investment that can add value to their property.
They’re right: Studies have found that homes with good energy-efficiency ratings sell for 3% to 5% more than similar homes with low or no ratings. One simple way to improve your rating is with energy-efficient windows, especially those rated by ENERGY STAR.
What Are ENERGY STAR Homes?
ENERGY STAR homes are designed to be energy efficient, lowering the home’s energy consumption and carbon footprint. They’re certified by the ENERGY STAR program, which is run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to help consumers make smart energy choices. The main requirement is that ENERGY STAR-certified homes must be at least 10% more energy efficient than new homes built to minimum code levels. They can meet this requirement in a variety of ways, for example by using high-performance heating and cooling systems, ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, energy-efficient windows, and smart home technology.
In addition to saving on energy bills, homeowners may also receive ENERGY STAR tax rebates for various upgrades and features. Altogether, ENERGY STAR-certified homes not only keep you comfortable, but can be a smart investment for the future.
What Are ENERGY STAR Windows?
ENERGY STAR windows are high-performance windows designed to reduce solar gain and energy consumption in homes. Energy-efficient windows can earn ENERGY STAR certification if they are independently tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and earn ratings that meet the strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. Certified windows must also be manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner.
Key Features of ENERGY STAR Windows
To earn this rating and certification, window manufacturers can include a variety of energy-efficient features in their products. Most ENERGY STAR-rated windows have the following features.
Quality Frame Materials
With the ENERGY STAR rating, you know you’re getting good quality frame materials for your residential windows. Vinyl and fiberglass are the most popular, because they resist heat transfer and solar gain better than traditional materials, meaning they provide excellent insulation. As a bonus, they’re also very durable.
Multiple Glass Panes
The best energy-efficient windows feature double- or triple-paned glass. These layers create insulating pockets of air or gas between the panes, significantly reducing heat loss in winter and keeping your home cooler in summer. This design also enhances sound insulation.
Gas Fills
Gas fills between the glass panes improve the insulating properties of energy-efficient windows. Typically, argon or krypton gas is used because these gasses are denser than air, so they slow down the transfer of heat.
Warm Edge Spacers
Warm edge spacers separate the glass panes in energy-efficient and ENERGY STAR-rated windows. Made from insulating materials, these spacers reduce heat transfer at the window edge, improving the window's overall thermal performance.
Low E Glass
Low E (low emissivity) glass has a special coating that reflects infrared light, keeping heat inside during winter and outside during summer. This coating also reduces UV light penetration, protecting your furnishings from fading.
David Weekley Homes Maximizes Energy Efficiency with MI Windows
David Weekley Homes is the largest privately-held home builder in America. They specialize in building exceptional new construction homes, and are passionate about their team members and the communities where they live and work. Recently, in Buckeye, AZ, MI Windows and Doors was a part of the David Weekley experience as the Victory at Verrado properties began to take shape.
Promoting an Active Lifestyle
The 55-and-over community is the first in David Weekley’s history to be designed specifically for active adults. The designers focused on creating an environment of energy, activity, and opportunity.
Nestled against the beautiful Verrado Golf Club, Victory features a community pool, fitness center, park and playground, clubhouse, and community center. With close proximity to the White Tank Mountains and convenient access to shopping and local entertainment, the community is uniquely idyllic, and far more than a traditional retirement community.
Selecting the Right Energy-Efficient Windows
Steve Morgan, Purchasing Manager at T.W. Lewis by David Weekley Homes worked closely with MI Sale Representative Tom Fullerton to select the Professional 5000 windows with two-over-one or three-over-one grids between the glass. Additionally, picture windows were used to complement and enhance each space. These vinyl windows feature a 2 ¾” frame and beautifully clean, sleek sight lines.
“We had success using MI products in the past with our Estrella community,” stated Morgan. “Their Pro5000 products were a perfect fit for Verrado and gave us a great opportunity to expand our relationship.”
Morgan’s favorite feature? Even with just the standard glass offering, these energy-efficient windows meet ENERGY STAR requirements for the southwestern region. Residents will be comfortable and have lower energy bills, all while reducing the community’s environmental footprint.
Suppliers Love MI Windows
Morgan is also a fan of MI Windows’ strong supplier relationships and industry-leading warranty. The partnership between David Weekley and local window supplier XO Windows, along with XO’s knowledge and expertise in energy-efficient window installation made Morgan and his team confident that the windows would be hassle-free for homeowners in the future.
The new residential windows were installed immediately after the framing was complete. Once properly adjusted to be plum, level, and square, the windows were secured through the mounting fin. At the final stages of construction, the screens were installed and adjusted to ensure proper function and performance.
Delivering Energy-Efficient Windows With Style
T.W. Lewis by David Weekley Homes is committed to the David Weekley promise — to provide beautiful design, a wide selection of choices, and unbeatable service to their customers. The new construction homes in the Victory community show the hallmarks of true craftsmanship and class.
Six different home layouts are offered in Verrado, each with countless opportunities for customization of layout and design. Open floor plans, high ceilings, beautiful owner’s retreats, stunning kitchens, and expertly situated outdoor spaces are all at the fingertips of the homeowner.
“We don’t just build houses,” stated Morgan. “We build homes. We’re thrilled to be a part of this community, and look forward to helping active adults create their dream retirement.” MI’s energy-efficient windows will offer views of sweeping golf courses and beautiful Arizona mountains, and the lives of the homeowners in the Victory community will be as vibrant as what they see outside.
Looking for ENERGY STAR-rated Windows for Your Home?
The ENERGY STAR program is a trusted way that consumers can be sure they’re buying the most energy-efficient windows and other products available. MI Windows and Doors is a certified program partner and offers a variety of ENERGY STAR-rated windows for any new construction project. Our Certified Dealers are knowledgeable in all of our products and can help you find the right one for your home. Just contact a Certified MI Dealer in your area to get started.
