Windows, Doors, and Skylights

Windows, doors, and skylights—also known as fenestration—are significant components in a home's envelope. Ensuring they are as energy efficient as possible can save energy; reduce heating, cooling, and lighting costs; and improve the comfort of your home.

Shopping for Efficient Windows, Doors, and Skylights

Energy Efficient Windows, Doors, and Skylights

Cold Weather Window Tips

  • Install tight-fitting, insulating window shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing. Consider insulated cellular shades, which are “honeycombed” and can be raised or lowered. Obtain energy efficiency ratings for window attach­ments from the Attachments Energy Rating Council.
  • Close your curtains and shades at night to protect against cold drafts; open them during the day to let in warming sunlight.
  • Apply low-e film on the inside of your windows to keep heat from radiating out. Films are rated by the NFRC and will be rated by the AERC.
  • Alternatively, install low-e exterior or interior storm windows, which can save you 12%–33% on heating and cooling costs, depending on the type of window already in­stalled in the home. They should have weatherstripping at all movable joints; be made of strong, durable materials; and have inter­locking or overlapping joints.
  • Repair and weatherize your current storm windows, if necessary.

Warm Weather Window Tips

  • Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house. It is always best to install exterior shades whenever possible
  • Close curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the day.
  • Install awnings on south- and west-facing windows to create shade.
  • Apply sun-control or other reflective films on south-facing win­dows to reduce solar heat gain. In hot climates, consider adding them to east, west, and south-facing windows.