If you’re planning to replace your windows then there are a few things you’ll want to know first. As you start searching through the options, you may come across terms that you’re not entirely familiar with. Of course you can always ask the pros at Progressive Insulation & Windows but if you want to get a head start, read on to learn seven insider terms you’ll likely come across. Then give us a call at (800) 500-6200 or stop by our showroom with additional questions.

1. Condensation resistance

This is a scale that goes up to 100 and the higher the number is, the more resistant it is to allowing condensation to form inside your window pane. Since condensation forming is one of the signs that it’s time to replace your windows, you can imagine how important it is to choose windows that have a high condensation resistance.

2. Air leakage

While a condensation resistance number that’s higher is better, the opposite is true of air leakage. The lower the rating, the less air it allows to leak out. If you’re wondering about your current windows and how much air leakage they allow, see us about our energy efficiency audit services and how they can give you the answers you need.

3. Shading coefficient

With this rating, what’s being tested is how much heat can get through the glazing on a particular window. The lower the shading efficient number is, the more efficient the window is.

4. Air chambers

There’s space between the frame and sash of a window. Air chambers refer to small, honeycomb shaped pockets of air that helps to make windows better insulated and can improve your home’s energy efficiency.

5. Visible transmittance

If you want to know how much light can pass through your window, then you want the visible transmittance rating. The higher the rating is, the more natural light the windows will allow through and into your home.

6. Spectrally selective coating

This is a coating that works to allow visible light to get through your window. At the same time, it works to block infrared rays that are dangerous and that are more likely to make your furniture and window coverings fade.

7. National Fenestration Ratings Council label

Better known as the NFRC, this label lists out several important efficiency ratings in one place. They include things like U-vale, visible transmittance, and solar heat gain coefficient. These ratings are very helpful because they rate windows from different manufacturers using the same scale. It’s a great way to directly compare one product to another.

These are just seven of the terms often used in this business. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your windows and are curious about other terms, or if you simply want someone to walk you through the process of selecting the right options for your home, reach out to Progressive Insulation & Windows at (800) 500-6200. We can come to you and provide a full free estimate or you can visit us in our showroom to learn more.