Image An energy rater will check for dry rot and moisture problems as well as air leakage around windows and doors. Publication Date Thu, 04/01/2010 - 12:00
Image With modern low-E storm windows, manufacturers offer many frame colors and the option for custom color matching
Image Right – Interior wood-to-wood seams around a window are sealed with tape to prevent air leakage. Publication Date Fri, 12/31/2021 - 12:00
Image Right – A rigid rain screen product completely covers the wall behind the cladding and window framing.
Image Awnings, overhangs, and porches shield windows and doors from sun, rain, and snow in this sunny mountain locale. Publication Date Sun, 01/01/2017 - 12:00
Image Builders use an infrared camera to “see” heat flow and air leakage around a window during construction.
Image Wrong - The IRC requires that kitchen exhaust ducts terminate outside, at least 3 feet from operable windows.
Image Right - Covered porches protect the south-facing windows and doors of this building from solar heat gain. Publication Date Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00
Image The windows in this building are connected to the fully adhered water and air control layer using fluid-applied flashing Publication Date Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:00
Image Wrong - House wrap was poorly installed, seams were not taped, and flashing tape was not installed around windows. Publication Date Sat, 03/06/2021 - 12:00
Image Wrong - Water has gotten behind the paint, possibly due to lack of window flashing, leading to blistering. Publication Date Mon, 06/14/2021 - 12:00
Image Wrong - The gutter is missing kick-out flashing causing wall and window damage beneath it. Publication Date Sat, 03/06/2021 - 12:00
Image These aluminum Bahama shutters shade west-facing windows from afternoon sun and are approved for hurricane protection Publication Date Wed, 07/26/2023 - 12:00
Image Right - This house has key features to block heat such as such as tree shading for the west wall and roof, minimized west-facing windows, and a porch roof, floor, and wing walls creating deep architectural overhangs and fins to shade south-facing windows Publication Date Fri, 09/24/2021 - 12:00
Image Right – The rough opening around the window has been filled with low-expansion foam to air seal. Publication Date Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00
Image Proper flashing around windows is especially important when the rigid foam serves as the drainage plane in the wall Publication Date Mon, 10/01/2007 - 12:00
Image Right – Foundation drainage mat was installed over the waterproof membrane that covers the sealed crawlspace window Publication Date Mon, 09/01/2014 - 12:00
Image Lay out the rigid foam sheathing joints so they do not align with the window and door edges Publication Date Mon, 10/01/2007 - 12:00
Image Locating windows on adjacent and opposite sides of the house will allow cross ventilation regardless of wind direction Publication Date Fri, 09/24/2021 - 12:00
Image Whole-house fans draw outside air through windows into the home and exhaust it into a vented attic Publication Date Sun, 04/01/2012 - 12:00
Image Right – The window header is filled with spray foam and sealant is used to air seal wood-to-wood seams; however, it would be preferable to design the wall to avoid so many stacked studs around the windows because they prevent wall insulation installation. Publication Date Fri, 12/31/2021 - 12:00
Image A Kalamazoo homeowner reduced wintertime chill, condensation, and snowblower noise by installing high-performance interior storm windows Publication Date Mon, 01/01/2024 - 12:00
Image Window Detail: Framed Wall with Plywood or OSB Sheathing, a WRB, and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum, or Vinyl) Publication Date Wed, 03/20/2024 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Framed Wall with Rigid Insulation and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum or Vinyl) Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image Extension boxes of plywood built around the windows on this wall retrofit will be flush with the outer layer of exterior rigid insulation Publication Date Fri, 08/13/2021 - 12:00
Image External solar screens are an effective way to reduce solar heat gains through windows while maintaining view.
Image Right – A metal flashing was installed behind the first row of siding above the windows to guide water over the trim. Publication Date Mon, 09/30/2019 - 12:00
Image A layer of rigid foam is sandwiched between two layers of 2x8 lumber in this insulated header over a window. Publication Date Mon, 01/01/2018 - 12:00
Image The patio roof on this home provides full shade to large glass doors and windows, reducing the home's heat gains. Publication Date Sat, 07/01/2000 - 12:00
Image ENERGY STAR Certification Criteria for Residential Windows, Doors, and Skylights, Version 7.0, effective 10-23-23 Publication Date Mon, 10/23/2023 - 12:00
Image Right - These removeable awnings provide ample shade to windows and patio space, reducing heat gain to the home. Publication Date Wed, 07/19/2023 - 12:00
Image Deep overhangs and porches shade the double-paned, argon-filled, low-emissivity windows to keep out summer sun.
Image Imagine Homes installs double-paned, vinyl-framed, low-e windows to minimize solar heat gain in San Antonio. Publication Date Thu, 09/01/2011 - 12:00
Image Low-E storm windows are a cost-effective retrofit that is easy to install and can cut heating and cooling bills 10% to 33%. Publication Date Mon, 01/01/2024 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Framed Wall with Thick Rigid Insulation and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum or Vinyl) Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image Triple-pane windows are highly insulating (U=0.18) to slow heat transfer while letting in plenty of sunlight.
Image This simple decision tree can help homeowners and contractors make decisions about re-siding a home and upgrading windows Publication Date Mon, 05/16/2022 - 12:00
Image This detailed decision tree can help homeowners and contractors make decisions about re-siding a home and upgrading windows Publication Date Mon, 11/21/2022 - 12:00
Image Wrong - Stucco has rotted and cracked above a window because of water damage due to lack of proper flashing and drainage. Publication Date Tue, 11/12/2019 - 12:00
Image The solar tube installed in the ceiling of this bathroom brings natural light into an interior room that doesn’t have window access. Publication Date Wed, 12/29/2021 - 12:00
Image Wrong - This IR image is showing that cold air is entering the home at the window frame and the sill plate at the base of the wall. Publication Date Mon, 01/16/2017 - 12:00
Image Wrong - Kitchen exhaust ducts are prohibited from terminating within 3 feet of an operable window or near gable vents.
Image Wrong - Lack of insulation in the wall above this window combined with poor bathroom ventilation has contributed to mold growth. Publication Date Sun, 01/27/2019 - 12:00
Image High-performance home builders surveyed by PNNL report several reasons for choosing triple-pane over double-pane windows Publication Date Sat, 02/24/2024 - 12:00
Image Right – The energy rater used a window to test whole-house air leakage with this blower door testing equipment. Publication Date Thu, 09/30/2021 - 12:00
Image Right - Panels of 7/16-inch treated plywood are inexpensive but take time to install and are difficult to install on higher windows. Publication Date Tue, 01/01/2019 - 12:00
Image Right – There is flashing installed along the top of the window and the water-resistant barrier is layered over to create a complete drainage system Publication Date Tue, 02/01/2011 - 12:00
Image The photovoltaic solar panels installed on the south face of this home perform double duty as window overhangs for summertime shading. Publication Date Thu, 06/22/2023 - 12:00
Image Flood damage-resistant materials include concrete and tile flooring, metal cabinets and doors, and glass-block windows. Publication Date Tue, 04/01/2008 - 12:00
Image While windows typically make up only 7% of the total envelope area of a home, they are responsible for 48% of its heat loss Publication Date Mon, 01/01/2024 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Framed Wall with a WRB, Rigid Insulation, and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum or Vinyl) or Stucco Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image ENERGY STAR-rated ceiling fans and openable windows oriented to prevailing summer breezes help provide low-cost cooling.
Image Installation of permanent exterior low-E storm windows is simple and easy, requiring a few basic tools and about 20 minutes of labor
Image Wrong - This IR image is showing a lack of air-sealing is allowing cold air to enter the home around the windows and at the base of the wall. Publication Date Mon, 01/16/2017 - 12:00
Image Right – the building on the right employs light-colored walls, deep tinting, and deeply recessed windows to minimize solar heat gain Publication Date Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00
Image ENERGY STAR reflective roof shingles and low-SHGC windows with low-emissivity coatings help to minimize solar heat gain.
Image Right - A smart vapor barrier wraps the walls and window frames of this home. Seams are taped to provide an air- and water-resistant barrier. Publication Date Wed, 12/29/2021 - 12:00
Image Windows are installed as “outies” in this wall assembly using a self-adhered membrane water and air control layer with continuous exterior insulation Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image Radiant heat from wildfires can crack windows by heating the exterior surface (#1) causing it to expand and crack when exposed to wildfire. Publication Date Thu, 01/01/2009 - 12:00
Image Wrong – The outer pane of this window broke under radiant exposure from a neighbor’s house that had ignited in a 2007 southern California wildfire. Publication Date Thu, 01/01/2009 - 12:00
Image Light tubes are installed in hallways and closets to bring natural daylight into the home, even in areas that do not have direct windows.
Image Wrong – Design walls so that windows are positioned to fit regularly spaced studs so less additional studs are needed.
Image Wrong - This IR image shows a lack of air-sealing around the door, window, and light switch that is allowing in cold air. Publication Date Mon, 01/16/2017 - 12:00
Image Wrong - Wiring holes are not sealed and possible missing flashing around windows is allowing water into walls and causing paint to peel. Publication Date Sun, 05/30/2021 - 12:00
Image High winds pulled the asphalt shingles and sheathing panels off this coastal home, although storm shutters protected the windows
Image Right – Backer-rod is a foam product available in various diameters that can be used to air-seal openings around doors and windows. Publication Date Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00
Image Permanent options for keeping sun off windows to minimize solar heat gain include permanent overhangs and awnings, frames, and louvers. Publication Date Tue, 01/01/2019 - 12:00
Image Wrong – Regular window glass is susceptible to breakage from the radiant heat of a wildfire; tempered and laminated glass are more resistant to breakage. Publication Date Fri, 01/01/2021 - 12:00
Image Interior window attachments such as these light-filtering roller shades can reduce heat gains while providing pleasant, diffuse natural light. Publication Date Tue, 07/25/2023 - 12:00
Image Dense hedges can encourage cross ventilation (left image) or not (right image) depending on how they are placed relative to windows Publication Date Mon, 01/01/2007 - 12:00
Image Right - Triple-pane windows let in light and views while minimizing heat loss in winter and unwanted solar heat gain in summer. Publication Date Fri, 12/31/2021 - 12:00
Image This simple decision tree can help homeowners and contractors make decisions about wall and window upgrades when re-siding a home Publication Date Thu, 04/14/2022 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Framed Wall with Plywood or OSB Sheathing, a WRB, and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum or Vinyl, or Stucco) Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Double Wall Framed with Plywood or OSB Sheathing, a WRB, and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum, or Vinyl) Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image This simple decision tree can help homeowners and contractors determine options about wall and window upgrades when re-siding a home Publication Date Thu, 04/14/2022 - 12:00
Image These interior storm windows have low-emissivity coatings to let in light while keeping out heat in the summer and keeping heat in in the winter
Image Likely amount of time and radiant heat exposure at which different types of window glass would break at 30 feet from the edge of a wildfire. Publication Date Thu, 01/01/2009 - 12:00
Image The Solar Radiation Data Manual for Buildings provides window overhang sizing guidance for 239 locations across the U.S.; this example is for Boulder, CO Publication Date Fri, 09/01/1995 - 12:00
Image Photocells sense daylight entering from windows, ambient light from other luminaires, and reflected light bouncing around the room. Publication Date Mon, 01/20/2025 - 12:00
Image Two layers of rigid foam are sandwiched between three layers of lumber to provide a thermal break in the headers above doors and windows.
Image This house was designed with half of the basement above grade, allowing 36-inch-tall windows for egress and daylight on both sides of the house.
Image Right - Impact-resistant glass protects windows from wind-borne debris and is always in place, requiring no manual deployment during a storm. Publication Date Tue, 01/01/2019 - 12:00
Image A reversible window fan can operate via thermostatic or remote control and can selectively exhaust air or bring in outdoor air Publication Date Mon, 11/14/2022 - 12:00
Image A metal storm panel is installed in a track permanently mounted above and below the window frame and secured with wing nuts to studs mounted on the track. Publication Date Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00
Image Hurricane force winds that breach external windows and doors can then cause failure of the entire building due to internal pressures on walls and roof. Publication Date Tue, 12/01/1992 - 12:00
Image 2021 IECC Window Detail: Strapped 2x6 Framed Wall with Plywood or OSB Sheathing, a WRB and Siding (Wood, Fiber Cement, Aluminum or Vinyl) Publication Date Tue, 03/26/2024 - 12:00
Image Right – thermal mass walls, small windows, and recessed porch and trees on the south side of this southwest home help to minimize solar heat gain. Publication Date Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key sill details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a mechanically attached water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key head details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a mechanically attached water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key jamb details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a mechanically attached water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key head details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a fluid-applied water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key jamb details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a fluid-applied water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image This drawing shows key sill details for a window installation using a fluid-applied flashing on a wall with a fluid-applied water and air control layer Publication Date Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:00
Image Right - Seams in coated sheathing and joints around window are properly sealed and flashed with tape and all nail holes are covered with paint-on sealant. Publication Date Sun, 08/15/2021 - 12:00
Image Careful landscaping can preserve roof-top solar exposure and provide shading to help control solar gain through windows. Publication Date Wed, 01/01/1992 - 12:00
Image Clerestory windows bring light in from above, reflecting it off of surfaces, making it more appealing than the direct light that comes from skylights
Image A piece of siding is used as sill extension and to provide slope in the opening for the window, which is deeper because exterior rigid foam has been added Publication Date Mon, 02/20/2017 - 12:00
Image Airflow can be directed across thermal mass in the ceiling, floor, or elsewhere inside the home through various window and louver configurations Publication Date Fri, 09/24/2021 - 12:00
Image Two types of paint-on flashing (green and red) are installed on the walls and around the windows, over the coated sheathing which is taped at the seams.
Image Removable options for keeping sun off windows to minimize solar heat gain include awning, retractable and swinging shutters, interior or exterior curtains. Publication Date Tue, 01/01/2019 - 12:00
