August 17 2024 | Future Vision Windows & Doors
One of the biggest challenges I see in the window industry is the overuse of energy efficiency as a marketing buzzword. It seems like every company is boasting about having the most energy-efficient product on the market. Frankly, it’s become so overplayed that I’m personally no longer interested in hearing those claims. Let me make one thing clear: any European-made window is already far more energy-efficient than just about any North American option. So, the energy efficiency claim, while important, is not the real issue.
What I want to focus on is the gap in these energy efficiency claims: performance ratings and certifications don’t account for longevity and durability.
The Reality Behind Energy Efficiency Ratings
Performance can look fantastic on paper, but if a window is built with substandard components, poor design, or installed improperly, those ratings and certifications won’t mean much in the long term. Sure, your window might perform well for the first few years, but without high-quality materials and craftsmanship, that performance will deteriorate over time.
The Other Half of the Equation: Longevity and Durability
My advice to clients is simple: don’t rely solely on energy ratings like Energy Star as a guarantee of quality. The other half of the equation includes factors like:
– The materials used in the frame and glass
– The Type of sealants and spacers used
– How the corners of the frame are joined and reinforced
If your salesperson can’t confidently explain these aspects of the window, it’s time to question what they’re actually offering. More often than not, people are being sold on flashy energy efficiency claims paired with a low price tag. However, if you’re only focused on ratings, you’re neglecting the critical factors that determine whether your windows will stand the test of time.
When Was the Last Time Someone Sold You on Durability?
Think back to the last time you spoke to a window salesperson. Did they talk about the durability of their product? Did they explain the engineering and construction details that went into making their windows? Chances are, they didn’t. That’s because the industry is hyper-focused on promoting energy efficiency as the ultimate selling point.
A Balanced Perspective
Energy efficiency is important, but it’s only part of the story. Longevity and durability matter just as much, if not more, in ensuring that your investment stands the test of time. The next time you’re considering windows, ask the hard questions about materials, construction, and durability. The answers will tell you far more about the product’s true value than any sticker or certification ever could.
By focusing on the full picture, you can make a more informed decision—one that balances performance with lasting quality.