Windows for Your Climate Zone

Climate conditions and other environmental factors are key criteria when it comes to selecting the right window. Below are some general tips for materials and options to consider. It’s important to note that every homeowner’s circumstance is different, so this information includes general suggestions, not recommendations – homeowners should talk to a reputable contractor or window dealer in their particular area to help select products that may work best for them. If your home experiences:

Coastal Climates, Wet and Damp and/or High Humidity
JELD-WEN Wood Windows with AuraLast® wood, which is specially treated to help reduce moisture saturation, and JELD-WEN Vinyl Windows both offer good moisture protection. Because these conditions can require more maintenance, including regular repainting and touch-ups, windows that won’t need painting such as vinyl, and metal-clad-wood windows are a good choice.

Exceptionally Hot/Harsh Sun Exposure
Rather than window material type, glass and window location is key. The right glass can help protect against UV exposure and keep interior furnishings from fading. Choose insulated Low-E glass, which reduces the amount of heat entering the home and lowers cooling needs. It also blocks up to 85 percent of harmful UV rays that cause interior fading. In addition, JELD-WEN offers a higher performing LoE3-366 glass for extra protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for the ENERGY STAR label suitable for your region. Pay attention to window labels including the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), which indicates the ability to block heat generated by sunlight. The greater the protection, the lower the SHGC. U-factor is also important, which is the amount of heat flowing through a product. The lower the number, the more energy efficient it is. Proper overhangs and where windows are located are also important. When building a home in a sunny region, place larger windows facing north.

Severe, Hurricane-force Storms
In hurricane-prone regions, JELD-WEN Wood, Vinyl and Aluminum windows offer optional ImpactGard™ protection, which is designed to meet the nation’s toughest building codes. ImpactGard protection resists impacts from wind borne debris and keeps windows sealed and intact during storms. There are five impact glass options available to fit different regions and budgets. More information can be found at JELD-WEN.com