What Is Air Leakage and Why Should It Concern You?
Energy performance ratings serve as a gauge to the energy efficiency of windows and doors. By taking these ratings into consideration, you can better understand how these products can play a role in keeping your indoor temperatures more consistent while reducing energy expenditures.
You might have come across ratings such as U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), but did you know there’s such a thing as an air leakage (AL) rating? Here’s what you need to know about it and why it matters.
What Is Air Leakage?
The amount of air that leaks through a window unit is referred to as air infiltration or air leakage. This number should ideally be established before installation, and you must choose certified experts to install your windows if you want to keep that number the same. The value of the air leakage rating in a window unit ranges from 0.1 to 0.3, with 0.1 being the lowest leakage and most efficient.
The Importance of the Air Leakage Rating
Up to 40% of the heating and cooling energy used in an average household is consumed by air leaks. Modern homes typically have sealants, adhesives and foams to help reduce this. However, this isn’t always the case, particularly for houses constructed before the year 2000. As your go-to roofing and window installation specialists, we advise choosing replacement windows with AL ratings below 0.3 to help you save money over time.
Fiberglass, composite and wood are among window materials that don’t tightly seal. They get substantially higher AL ratings as a result. You shouldn’t, however, solely rely on their AL ratings. The energy efficiency of the window will also depend on other energy performance ratings, such as the U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient.
For the best window services in Michigan, you can always count on Kroll Construction for reliable, insured and guaranteed service. Allow us to help you. Call us at (888) 338-6340, or fill out our contact form to request a quote. We serve homeowners in and around Detroit.
