Comfort, energy savings, and long-term value are the reasons why so many homeowners consider energy-efficient windows. After a long Kansas City winter, many people wonder if new windows will make their homes feel warmer and reduce energy bills.
The answer is almost always yes, but there’s more to it than simply replacing what you have. It comes down to the right materials and ensuring the installation is done correctly from the start. Let’s take a closer look at what truly matters for your window replacement project.
The Hidden Importance of Installation
Why Installation is Key to Window Performance
We often remind homeowners that even the most energy-efficient windows can underperform if they’re not installed properly. Air leaks, water damage, and drafts can all come from a window that wasn’t properly flashed or sealed during installation. This is why so many windows fail long before their expected lifespan. At Fairway Exteriors, we believe in doing it right the first time. Our dedicated window crew handles every project we take on, so you never have to worry about who’s coming to your home.
Our Approach to Proper Window Installation
When we install energy-efficient windows, we start by checking for existing wood rot or structural issues that could lead to future leaks. We also use high-quality flashing tapes and foam to ensure a tight, water-resistant seal around every window. Our customers trust us because we don’t cut corners, and we use the same experienced crew for every job. This consistent approach gives homeowners confidence that their investment will provide long-lasting value.
Choosing the Right Window Materials
The Benefits of Fiberglass Frames
We’re big believers in fiberglass window technology. Unlike many vinyl options, fiberglass doesn’t warp or degrade as quickly when exposed to harsh Midwest weather. Marvin windows are one of our top choices because they’re made with all-fiberglass exteriors. Marvin also manufactures all components in-house, so there’s better quality control and no reliance on third-party parts. This single-source manufacturing means you get windows that last longer and stay looking great year after year.
Fiberglass frames expand and contract much less than vinyl or wood. That’s important because Kansas City’s weather swings from cold in winter to blazing heat in summer. Less expansion means less risk of gaps, leaks, and air infiltration over time. If you plan to stay in your home for decades, fiberglass windows are a reliable choice that can handle the elements without losing their energy-saving performance.
Vinyl Windows for Short-Term Value
We also understand that not every homeowner plans to stay in their house long-term. For homeowners looking for a short-term boost in energy savings, high-quality vinyl windows with triple-pane glass can be a cost-effective solution. Many of our customers have found that these windows offer great performance for five to fifteen years. That’s perfect for homeowners planning to sell or move soon. Just remember that vinyl windows often start strong but can lose their performance edge over time.
Energy-Efficient Glass Options
The Role of Triple-Pane Glass
One of the best upgrades you can make for energy-efficient windows is switching to triple-pane glass. Triple-pane windows offer excellent insulation against heat and cold, and they qualify homeowners for up to $600 in energy tax credits. But they’re not always the best choice for every home. In Kansas City, homes often face more challenges from direct sunlight than from freezing temperatures. This is where special glass coatings can make a real difference.
Sun Defense Low-E Glass
We recommend homeowners consider Low-E3 glass (or similar sun defense glass, depending on the manufacturer). These coatings reflect more of the sun’s heat without sacrificing natural light. In homes where the sun can heat interior spaces quickly, Low-E3 glass helps keep indoor temperatures more comfortable without overworking your HVAC system. It’s another important layer of energy efficiency that many homeowners overlook.
The Bottom Line on Energy Efficiency
It’s More Than Just U-Factors
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, it’s easy to get lost in the numbers, U-factors, SHGC ratings, and triple versus double panes. But what matters is how well the window will perform over the years and how well it’s installed. Even the best window won’t save you money if it’s not flashed, foamed, and sealed the right way. At Fairway Exteriors, we take the guesswork out of your project by using trusted products and expert installers every time.
Why Homeowners Trust Fairway Exteriors
Our customers choose us because they want to work with a team that understands Kansas City homes and the local climate. They want the same skilled crew handling their installation from start to finish, not a rotating cast of subcontractors. And they want to know that their investment in energy-efficient windows will keep paying off year after year.
Ready to make your home more comfortable and efficient? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how new windows can change the way you feel about your home.
