Selecting Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
for a 14x24 Cabin in NEK Vermont
The goal is to maximize the view from the inside of the cabin and simultaneously maximizing energy efficiency of the windows and doors. The qualify for the "base level" of energy efficiency with Efficiency Vermont we would need windows with U-0.28 or less and doors with U-.028 or less.
We selected awning, casement, French doors and one double-hung window. The double-hung window would be necessary for the loft if we ever need A/C. Instead of going with a mini-split for A/C we could simply add a window unit and use it as needed.
The majority of the Andersen 400 windows were at U-.028, the threshold for qualifying for energy efficient windows. However, the French doors did not meet the energy efficiency requirements. Jen S., our Efficiency Vermont consultant, recommended we try to look into Pella, Harvey and Paradigm. We also decided we should go with fiberglass frame windows so they will be able to handle the New England weather over a longer period of time. There is a Pella dealer approximately 20 minutes away from where we live in Delaware, so we took a field trip out to look at their products. |
When comparing the Andersen 400, Pella Impervia and Pella Lifestyle windows, the Andersen 400 are the most expensive. They are also have the highest U-rating of all three. The French doors had a U-Factor of 0.30 and the requirement is 0.28.
The Pella Impervia have a Duracast and foam frame that will withstand the New England winters better than the Pella Lifestyle pine frames. But, the Pella Impervia had a higher U-factor rating than the Pella Lifestyle. In fact, the Pella Impervia sliding doors would also not meet the requirement for energy efficient doors due to a U-0.29 rating. The Pella Lifestyle were less expensive than the Andersen 400 windows by approximately $2k but they were more expensive than the Pella Impervia window quote by $2k. So, we will ask Jen about the U-factor requirements and the frame options. Do we go with a better U-factor and pine frame, or go with a higher U-factor and fiberglass frame?
This past spring we were able to get a quote for the windows and doors from Lowe's in Littleton, NH. The quote was more expensive that the quote from Pella in Delaware. However, there would be less travel with the purchase. Joshua Green, from Lowe's was super helpful with everything. He tried to get me the best price and his professionalism was amazing. I would have no problem recommending Joshua for any window or door project you may have.
The Pella Impervia have a Duracast and foam frame that will withstand the New England winters better than the Pella Lifestyle pine frames. But, the Pella Impervia had a higher U-factor rating than the Pella Lifestyle. In fact, the Pella Impervia sliding doors would also not meet the requirement for energy efficient doors due to a U-0.29 rating. The Pella Lifestyle were less expensive than the Andersen 400 windows by approximately $2k but they were more expensive than the Pella Impervia window quote by $2k. So, we will ask Jen about the U-factor requirements and the frame options. Do we go with a better U-factor and pine frame, or go with a higher U-factor and fiberglass frame?
This past spring we were able to get a quote for the windows and doors from Lowe's in Littleton, NH. The quote was more expensive that the quote from Pella in Delaware. However, there would be less travel with the purchase. Joshua Green, from Lowe's was super helpful with everything. He tried to get me the best price and his professionalism was amazing. I would have no problem recommending Joshua for any window or door project you may have.
In the end we went with Pella. Jason Knecht, a representative of Pella in South Burlington, Vermont, was extremely helpful and pleasant throughout the process of selecting all of our windows and doors. Len, with Shelter-Kit, redesigned the original Morgan to have a sleeping loft above the bedroom. This resulted in a larger bedroom and smaller open space. We decided to go with a long awning window for the sleeping loft and three, smaller windows above the slider and picture window for the open space.
We were able to involve Bruce Courtot, from Efficiency Vermont, before committing to the final contract for windows and doors. It was important to make sure all of the U-values were met for the base requirements for Efficiency Vermont.
We were able to involve Bruce Courtot, from Efficiency Vermont, before committing to the final contract for windows and doors. It was important to make sure all of the U-values were met for the base requirements for Efficiency Vermont.