Finding the most suitable energy-efficient windows for the intense heat in Texas can be challenging, but we are here to guide you in discovering the ultimate choice. Before delving into the details, there are a few terms that we should familiarize ourselves with. U-Factor and SHGC are the key terms that we will focus on regarding energy efficiency. The U-Factor represents a window's ability to allow heat into your home. Consider the external heat index and how it penetrates through your windows. A lower U-Factor indicates better insulation for your home, which is crucial in our quest for the most energy-efficient windows available. The second important rating is SHGC, which measures the amount of direct heat from sunlight that passes through the window. Think about the sunlight hitting the window and the heat that passes through (lower ratings are also better). Below, we will compare the best windows on the market and analyze the top choice. We will approach this in a slightly different manner, first analyzing the statistics for each window and then revealing our top picks at the end. While two of these companies may be more recognizable, we aim to provide an unbiased evaluation based on the facts of these windows.
The ratings provided will showcase the top three window companies that excel in handling the Texas heat. We will highlight the most energy-efficient options from each company in our first table, focusing on double hung windows, which are widely purchased. Please note that the ratings will be very similar as we evaluate the top-performing windows available on the market.
Energy Efficiency Based on Window Testing & Ratings
Ratings | Window 1 | Window 2 | Window 3 |
U-Factor | 0.20 | 0.17 | 0.16 |
SHGC | 0.14 | 0.17 | 0.19 |
Triple-pane windows have gained popularity for their ability to prevent heat transfer. Surprisingly, not all the windows above are triple-pane. While windows 1 and 3 are indeed triple-pane, window 2 features double-pane glass with a heat mirror that uses a triple coating of metallic particles to achieve a similar effect. The main advantage is that the cost of window 2 is reduced by 20-30%. Additionally, not all window frames can support the weight of triple-pane windows making it more universal to most homes. The superior technology used in its heat mirror allows our window 2 to achieve high energy efficiency with less glass. Window 1 excels at blocking direct sunlight heat but lacks the insulation properties of the other two options, which is crucial in Texas where summer temperatures can easily exceed 105 degrees. Window 2 offers consistent performance and is very close to window 3 in terms of energy efficiency, slightly edging it out in our research. However, window 3 is also a strong contender, prompting a structural durability test to determine the ultimate winner. Spoiler alert: Window 1 is an Andersen Series A, Window 2 is a KHPP Meridian, and Window 3 is a Ply Gem Contractor 2000 - Double Hung Windows.
Additional Data | KHPP Meridian | PlyGem |
STC (Sound transfer) | 27 | 34 |
Design Pressure (psf) | 55 | 35 |
Structural Test (psf) | 82.5 | na |
Water Resistance (psf) | 8.25 | na |
Wind Speed (mph) | 148 | na |
Unfortunately, our PlyGem product lacks comprehensive information regarding its structural testing. As I managed to gather all the necessary details on KHPP, I will proceed to include those statistics here.
How Much Do These Windows Cost?
Cost is going to be your next big factor, since two of these windows are extremely close in heat ratings. The pricing order for these respected window companies from most expensive to least goes. Anderson, PlyGem, and then KHPP Meridian.
Verdict on the Most Energy Efficient Windows For Texas Home Owners
After you compare pricing, overall ratings, and test them out (See video at the bottom). KHPP Meridian Windows would have to be our best choice for new energy efficient windows that won't break the bank. (This goes back to that triple pane cost we were talking about before.) They are tough, durable, and most importantly they do an amazing job at keeping out that dang Texas heat. PlyGem comes in second as they are more cost effective than the Andersen Windows & ever so slightly have the best U-Factor rating.
Why haven't I heard of the KHPP Efficient Windows:
KHPP is a quite company, they make high quality products and let their work and products speak from themselves. They also only have a select number of dealers in Texas area that they work with. This is to ensure that the performance grades they give out are true with a proper installation. Stevan Buren Windows a approved installer. If you like let to get your hands on these amazing windows please reach out to us by filling out our contact form, or give us a call at (817) 558-6997. No matter if you prefer the PlyGem windows or the KHPP Windows we carry both to provide the best installation for your project.
Tax Credit for Energy Efficient Windows
You will find the necessary information for your tax credit for you new Kensington HPP Windows here!
For the Plygem tax credit you can find that here!
For Anderson tax credit you can find that here!