Living in a coastal paradise like Wilmington, NC, comes with a price—and it’s not just the premium real estate. Homeowners face a relentless assault from Mother Nature: corrosive salt spray, hurricane-force winds, suffocating humidity, and tropical storms that seem determined to test the limits of your home’s defenses.
But here’s your secret weapon: strategically selected energy-efficient windows.
These aren’t just windows. They’re your home’s first line of defense against environmental extremes, promising more than just a view—they’re a shield that protects your comfort, your wallet, and your property’s long-term value.
Table of Contents
- Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
- Key Considerations for Window Energy Efficiency
- ENERGY STAR Certification
- U-Factor
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
- Visible Transmittance
- Air Leakage
- Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass Coatings
- Multi-Pane Windows
- Gas-Filled Panes
- Warm Edge Spacers
- Frame Material
- Window Design & Style
- Proper Installation
- Making the Decision
- Next Steps
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
When you replace your old, outdated windows with advanced, energy-saving window solutions, you can expect:
- Reduced energy bills
- Increased overall comfort
- Extended HVAC system lifespan
- Minimized carbon footprint
- Boosted property value
Key Considerations for Window Energy Efficiency
1. ENERGY STAR Certification
Make sure you use window materials that are ENERGY STAR certified. Window glass and frames earn this special distinction by meeting a set of specific location-based criteria. For example, in Wilmington, ENERGY STAR windows must have a U-Factor of 0.28 or lower and a SHGC of 0.23 or lower (more on those metrics below).
2. U-Factor
Every commercial and residential window product should have a rating label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). One of four main NFRC metrics, the U-Factor measures a window’s insulation. The lower the rate, the better the window will prevent heat from escaping your home in winter.
3. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
Another key NFRC rating, the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures the transfer of solar heat transmitted through the window into the home. A lower number means your window is better at blocking heat from the sun, making it easier for your air conditioning system to cool your home during toasty summer months.
4. Visible Transmittance
Visible transmittance is the third NFRC rating, measuring how much natural light the window allows to enter into your home. Higher numbers indicate an increased rate of transmittance, potentially reducing the need for artificial lighting.
5. Air Leakage
Just as it sounds, this final NFRC metric refers to the amount of air allowed to pass through the window. Search for a window with a low air leakage rate to minimize drafts and maintain interior warmth during chillier months.
6. Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass Coatings
Modern glass windows and doors are often coated in this thin metallic layer that reflects infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UL) light but still allows plenty of natural light to flow through. Low-E glass—particularly soft Low-E coatings—does wonders to help keep your home cool when outdoor temperatures soar.
7. Multi-Pane Windows
These days, most homeowners opt for double-pane or triple-pane windows. Each extra pane serves as an additional barrier against exterior temperatures, saving you big-time on your energy bill. The extra layers also offer natural soundproofing and enhanced storm protection for your home.
8. Gas-Filled Panes
Argon gas (and less commonly, krypton) is used to fill the space between window panes to help reduce the transfer of heat or cold through the window. While krypton is the better insulator of the two, it’s more expensive, leading many homeowners to choose argon-filled windows.
9. Warm Edge Spacers
Warm edge spacers are the bars inserted between window panes to ensure they’re evenly spaced apart. Non-metallic or hybrid material spacers help reduce the thermal bridge between your home interior and exterior, decreasing heat transfer and mold growth.
10. Frame Material
Below are four of the most common energy-efficient window frame materials.
| Material | Benefits |
| Vinyl | Thermal insulation, affordable, corrosion-resistant, low-maintenance |
| Fiberglass | Strong, durable, energy-efficient, resists expansion/contraction |
| Aluminum | Impact-resistant, lightweight, recycled, good insulation (with thermal breaks) |
| Wood | Classic appearance, good insulation |
Pro Tip: In southeastern North Carolina, stick to strong, durable frame materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum that can withstand harsh coastal conditions.
11. Window Design & Style
Beyond the materials, the actual window design can have a big impact on your home’s energy efficiency.
| Window Style | Characteristics |
| Casement Windows | Strong seal and ventilation |
| Awning Windows | Good for rain protection and ventilation |
| Fixed Windows | Most energy-efficient, but no ventilation |
| Sliding Windows | Easy to use, but can be less energy-efficient |
Custom glass providers like Atlantic Glass can help you determine the best window style for your home’s energy efficiency and overall aesthetic.
12. Proper Installation
To ensure your windows are serving their energy-efficient purpose, it’s essential to hire a professional to handle your new installation or replacement. From sealing to weatherstripping and insulation, several installation techniques require an extreme level of precision.
Making the Decision
Whether you’re building a new beachfront abode or upgrading your coastal home, quality energy-efficient windows will ultimately translate to long-term savings and maximum interior comfort. Consult with a professional glass installation company like Atlantic Glass to determine the right window choice for your home.
Order Custom Energy-Saving Windows From Atlantic Glass!
Looking to upgrade or install new energy-efficient windows? Atlantic Glass is Wilmington’s premier provider of specialty residential and commercial glass windows and doors. Reach out to our team today to get a FREE quote for your project.
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