Here are 5 tips for choosing windows for your new home.
1. Design a window to floor area ratio of 20% or less, below 15% is best. I have modeled some gorge view homes with a higher ratio, including one at 45%!, and it significantly affects home energy performance and in turn customer comfort. Definitely a balancing act between views and efficiency in that application.
2. Choose picture windows for the majority of the home, then awnings and casements for egress and natural ventilation options. Avoid sliders, single and double hung as they do not seal as tight. Hint: this helps lower your blower door numbers! Of course, install is also a key component.
3. Choose U-Values of 0.25 or less. This helps reduce winter heat loss. I have seen double pane windows compete with triple pane windows thanks to technologies like 4th surface coatings.
4. Choose solar heat gain coefficient aka SHGC of around 0.25. This helps reduce summer heat gain.
5. Choose fiberglass or composite frames. These are more durable and more stable over time compared to vinyl. Aluminum frames could be a good option for more remote areas where wildfire is a concern but still have more unwanted frame conductivity than other types.