Drafty rooms, condensation on glass, and stubborn old sashes are all signs your windows may be ready for an upgrade. New windows can make your home more comfortable, quieter, and more efficient—but only if you select the right products and have them installed correctly.

At SB Construction, we help homeowners cut through the jargon to choose windows that actually perform in our Northern California climate. Here’s what to consider.

Window Frame Materials

Common options include:

Vinyl:

• Pros: Affordable, low maintenance, good energy performance.
• Cons: Limited color options; can warp in extreme heat if low quality.

Fiberglass:

• Pros: Very stable, strong, can mimic wood, excellent performance.
• Cons: Higher cost than vinyl.

Wood (with cladding):

• Pros: Classic look, great for traditional homes.
• Cons: More maintenance; costlier; susceptible to moisture if not maintained.

Aluminum (thermally broken):

• Pros: Slim profiles, modern look.
• Cons: Historically less efficient, though improved with thermal breaks; can still transfer more heat/cold.

We help you match material to style, budget, and maintenance preferences.

Glass and Glazing Options

The glass itself is a big part of energy performance. Look for:

• Double or triple glazing: Multiple panes with air or gas fill (argon) between.
• Low‑E coatings: Thin, invisible layers that reflect infrared energy, helping keep heat in during winter and out during summer.
• Tinted or laminated glass: For privacy, UV reduction, or sound control where needed.

We’ll recommend combinations that balance efficiency, natural light, and aesthetics.

Understanding Energy Ratings

Two key numbers:

• U‑Factor: How well the window prevents heat from escaping. Lower is better.
• SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): How much solar heat passes through. Lower means less heat gain from the sun.

In many parts of Northern California, we want:

• A low U‑Factor for winter comfort and energy savings.
• A moderate to low SHGC, depending on window orientation and shading.