Replacement Windows in California: What to Consider

Replacement Windows in California: What to Consider

Windows in a home can increase comfort, aesthetics, and value; allow in natural light and fresh air; and provide outdoor views for those inside. They also can help insulate your home and, in the process, reduce your overall energy costs.

However, to get these benefits, your house must have the proper type of windows for California, and they need to be installed correctly.

Considerations for California Windows

The state has a mixed climate that requires both heating and cooling. Consequently, for replacement windows in California to be energy efficient, they need the following energy performance ratings, depending upon your area:

• North/Central Area: U-factor =0.32, SHGC =0.40
• South/Central Area: U-factor =0.35, SHGC =0.30

A U-factor, or overall heat transfer coefficient, describes how well a building's element, in this case windows, conducts heat. A SHGC measures the solar energy transmittance through windows. Windows that meet these standards qualify for the federal government's ENERGY STAR rating.

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Window Replacement Quality Indicators

Also, to harness their potential energy benefits, quality windows should:

• Provide a thermal barrier between indoors and outdoors
• Be properly labeled
• Be properly sealed and flashed to eliminate water and air leaks

You may calculate home window performance based on various factors using software like RESFNE.

If you undertake a window replacement project for your California home, and if you select ENERGY STAR qualifying windows, you may be eligible for a tax credit equal to 10 percent of the cost, up to $200 per window. The average cost of ten, three-by-five-feet, double-hung, replacement windows in California is $10,537 for vinyl and $11,512 for wood. Find out exactly what criteria for the credit are required before purchasing your windows.