Are you looking for the best windows in Utah?From snowy winters in Logan to scorching summers in St. George, Utah’s mixed climate demands windows that can handle these extreme temperature swings.
At M&M Gutters, we are here to help! Whether you want energy-efficient windows or ones for warm or mixed climates, you’ll find what you need to know about choosing the best windows for Utah homes.
What Are the Best Windows for Utah Weather?
We’re lucky to have four beautiful seasons in Utah, each with its characteristic weather. On the flip side, our cold winters and hot summers create unique challenges for homeowners when choosing the right windows. You want windows that can withstand all weather conditions in our state while keeping you comfortable in your home.
What Is the Best Window Brand for Cold Climates?
If you live in northern Utah areas like Logan or Park City, you’ll want well-insulated cold climate windows to keep the cold out! Consider a vinyl or fiberglass frame and double-glazed glass to minimize heat transfer and keep your home warmer.
What Are the Best Windows for High Temperatures?
If you live in southern Utah areas like St. George, you’ll want warm climate windows with low solar heat gain to prevent excessive heat from entering the house. A wood, aluminum, or vinyl frame will be your best option for insulation, while low-e, gas-fill, and double-pane glass will offer optimal thermal performance.
Mixed-Climate Windows
Utah County, Salt Lake, and surrounding areas experience a mix of warm and cold weather, so you need windows that can withstand both extreme temperatures. Consider a double-glazed window with a low U-factor and a composite frame to ensure you’re ready for any weather condition.
Windows for the City
Live in Salt Lake City or Ogden? Choose windows with extra noise reduction. A vinyl-framed window with double-glazed glass will provide soundproofing against street noise, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable living space.
Windows for the Mountains
Our picturesque mountains deserve to be seen, but a home on the slopes will need windows that can withstand harsh winter conditions. Consider a sturdy frame, like fiberglass or aluminum, and triple-glazed glass to enhance insulation.
What Makes an Energy-Efficient Window?
Energy-efficient windows are crucial for Utah homes, but what makes a window energy-efficient? Here are window factors to consider for your home:
Low-E Coatings
Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through window glass. These reflective coatings help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter while protecting against possible UV damage.
Double- or Triple-Glazing
Window glass with double or triple layers of glazing creates a robust thermal barrier, reducing heat transfer. Since Utah’s temperatures vary frequently, a double- or triple-glazed window will help maintain a consistent temperature in the home.
Gas Fills
Windows can be filled with gases between the panes, like argon or krypton, that help with thermal regulation. These gases are denser than air and reduce heat conduction, which helps improve overall energy efficiency.
Energy-Efficient Frame Materials
You want a frame that provides excellent insulation to ensure your windows are more energy efficient. The best energy-efficient window frames are:
- Vinyl: Affordable and good at reducing heat transfer for warmer climates.
- Fiberglass: Durable and highly insulated for cold climates.
- Wood: Naturally insulating but requires more upkeep.
Sealing and Weather Stripping
Window frames and glass can only go so far in insulating your home; you also need proper sealing and weather stripping to prevent air leakage. Properly sealed windows enhance energy efficiency and ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Energy Star Certification
Look for windows with an ENERGY STAR® certification. ENERGY STAR®-certified windows must be tested against specific climate conditions and proven to perform effectively.
U-Factor & Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
When shopping for ENERGY STAR®-certified windows, look for two key ratings: the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
The U-factor measures how well a window insulates, ranging from 0.20 to 1.20, and the lower the factor, the better the insulation. The SHGC measures how much solar heat passes through the window (on a scale of 0 to 1); lower values mean there’s less heat entering your home.
For colder climates in Utah, like Logan, choose windows with a U-factor of 0.30 or lower to retain indoor heat. In warmer areas like St. George, a U-factor between 0.30 and 0.35 can improve energy efficiency while managing solar heat.
Thermal Breaks
Thermal breaks add an insulation layer around the window frame, especially with aluminum or composite frames. Thermal breaks prevent heat transfer, making them an energy-efficient choice for Utah’s mountainous or high-elevation areas.
Energy-Efficient Window Styles
The style of window you choose affects the energy efficiency of your home. Some provide better insulation and a tighter seal than others.
- Horizontal Sliding Windows: Popular in Utah due to ease of operation and reduced air infiltration.
- Casement Windows: Excellent energy efficiency for homes in areas with strong winds, thanks to a tight seal.
- Single-Hung Windows: Reliable, energy-efficient windows that minimize air leakage.
Top Window Brands for Utah Homes
At M&M Gutters, we recommend and install trusted window brands for homes across Utah. The top-rated window brands we offer are:
- Anderson Windows: Known for durability and energy efficiency.
- Pella Windows: Come with innovative designs and energy-efficient features.
- Alside Windows: Offer energy efficiency and durability for diverse climates.
Quote Your Next Project Today!
When choosing the best windows for your Utah home, you should consider our climate and which windows are energy-efficient and durable enough to withstand our weather. If you’re ready to add new and improved windows to your house, contact M&M Gutters to find the ones you need.