Center for Building Technology

Window Design Strategies to Conserve Energy Center for Building Technology

A multitude of design strategies are available to achieve energy-efficient windows. Opportunities for improving window performance fall into six groups: site, exterior appendages, frame, glazing, interior accessories, and building interior. Design strategies within these groups can improve one or more of the six energy functions of windows: solar heating, daylighting, shading, insulation, air tightness, and ventilation. Included in this report are 33 strategies; an explanation of the physical phenomena responsible for each strategy's energy performance, summarized energy and non-energy advantages and disadvantages; aesthetic considerations; cost approximations; example installations, laboratory studies, or calculations by the authors; and references. Intended readers include professional designers, lessees and owners of commercial space, home buyers and owners, window component manufacturers, and researchers. The report's purpose is to draw attention to the wide range of options currently available to conserve energy with windows.