Replacing out of date windows can really net a significant savings when it comes to energy efficiency but some maintenance managers are not sure if the initial cost or higher investment is worth it.
According to Kerry Haglund, Research Fellow for the Center for Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota:
“In fact, the report estimates that 39% of commercial heating energy use and 28% of commercial cooling energy use – 34% of all commercial space conditioning energy use – are attributable to windows (excluding infiltration).”
The best way to ensure that your investment is a wise one is to look at the variables in cost vs savings and if there is a way to upgrade your existing windows with glazing options. Building use, local climate, utility rates, and building orientation should be taken into consideration when making a decision. No matter what you decide, upgrade or replace, ensure that you are tracking the project with a CMMS program from Maintenance Care.
High performance windows have a lot of benefits that are essential to saving money. These benefits include things like less air leakage, lower heat loss, warmer surfaces that lessen condensation, double- or triple-glazed insulated glass, improved frames and specialized coatings and films, these high-performance windows are effective at reducing heat transfer.
Here are a few things to take into consideration when making your final decision according to the National Institute of Building Science’s Whole Building Design Guide.
■ Heat gains and losses
■ Visual requirements (privacy, glare, view)
■ Shading and sun control
■ Thermal comfort
■ Condensation control
■ Ultraviolet control
■ Acoustic control
■ Color effects
■ Day lighting
■ Energy requirements
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No matter what you ultimately decide, a little research into your needs along with the building's dynamics goes a long way in making an informed decision and when that decision becomes a reality, use a CMMS program to track.