When it comes to the energy efficiency of a home, it all starts with the features that make the home what it is — its windows. Windows are a prime example of how something seemingly so simple can create a larger environmental impact unless it’s designed the right way.
This begins with the sourced products themselves. Window manufacturers are tasked with creating window styles that not only offer safety and style but can contribute positively to the environment.
Let’s take a look at the ways window manufacturers in Canada can create quality windows for builders across the country without increasing their carbon footprints.
Certified Energy Ratings
Poorly-constructed windows contribute significantly to global CO2 emissions. That’s why it’s crucial as window manufacturers to design and create windows that work to reduce those emissions. Understanding the importance of energy ratings is key to getting started.
In Canada, energy efficiency for window design is determined by the CSA — Canadian Standards Association. Their role is to determine how effective each window is in its energy performance, evaluating various factors such as heat transfers and providing it with an official rating.
The goal of window manufacturers in Canada and worldwide is to receive the Energy Star rating necessary to produce products that do not contribute to our carbon footprints.
Sourcing Sustainable Materials
The materials used to create the windows we see in Canadian homes are essential to the amount of energy they use on any given day. Window manufacturers committed to reducing their carbon footprints must be mindful of the materials they source to create their products. There are several types of window materials available today, but not all are considered equal when we talk about environmental impact.
Fibreglass is considered one of the most energy-efficient materials and is praised by many window manufacturers for its durability and longevity. This material is made from glass particles, incorporated from sand, and bound together by resin. Its ability to be customized into various colours and styles makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious window manufacturers.
Vinyl is a popular choice among Canadian window manufacturers working with contractors since it’s able to withstand seasonal weather changes — which makes the contractor’s job much easier. This material is easy to install and can be recycled, which is an important part of its eco-conscious nature.
Incorporating Low-E Glass
The glass you choose to incorporate into your window styles can dramatically impact the amount of energy consumed once it’s installed. Window manufacturers are responsible for choosing the glass that provides a high surface emissivity — which is the ability of a surface to absorb and release energy in radiation form.
Low-E glass can play an important role in reducing carbon footprints on manufacturing floors and households across Canada. Its clear coating reflects heat and allows for quality solar control. This allows the windows, once they’ve been installed in a home, to find the right balance between letting natural light indoors and keeping any dust, dirt, or allergens outdoors.
If you find yourself with any questions about energy-efficient windows, contact Casa Bella Windows and Doors today to learn more. Our manufacturing team will help you understand the importance of reducing carbon footprints in Canada and how that impacts today’s common window trends.
