A Guide to Choosing Eco-Friendly Windows

Sep 20 2022 Posted By Ontario Window Reviews

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An eco-friendly home is covered in solar panels

Every step we take to be more eco-friendly causes a ripple effect that does wonders in the process of healing Mother Nature. So, whether we ban the use of single-use plastics, switch off the lights as needed, or invest in eco-friendly windows, we’re one step closer to closing the gap. 

Given that windows are our specialty, we’re going to guide you through the process of choosing sustainable windows for your household. 

Let’s jump right in! 

What Does It Mean to be Eco-Friendly?

The term “eco-friendly” is more than just a passing trend. It’s a movement, a statement, and a lifestyle. 

Practicing eco-friendliness means using renewable resources with an endless supply or consuming non-renewable resources over a long period of time. 

Our planet is home to a limited amount of multiple types of resources, and it’s our responsibility to use them wisely in order to sustain life on earth. 

People around the world are doing their part in saving our planet, but the reality is that not everyone is on board yet. Plus, with climate change piling on top of all that, we need to make more environment-friendly choices whenever we can. 

Going green doesn’t mean that you have to do a full 180 on your lifestyle. One simple act of kindness to Mother Nature goes a long way—for example, opting for eco-friendly windows!

The Anatomy of Eco-Friendly Windows   

What’s in an eco-friendly window? It’s all about the materials! 

To frame your home with eco-friendly windows, you’ll want to utilize materials that have the least environmental impact. This can range from renewable, recyclable, responsibly-sourced wood, and other kinds of sustainable materials. 

Additionally, windows tend to be more eco-friendly when they are built to promote better energy efficiency. That being said, this element saves you money while helping save the environment. Optimally efficient windows insulate the cooled or heated air and keeps drafts out. 

Let’s take a deeper dive into the specific materials and their respective benefits:

Wood

If forests are managed as a renewable resource, then timber products can be harvested sustainably.

When you choose wooden window frames, any leftover wood from the manufacturing process can easily be repurposed. Wooden window frames also consume small amounts of energy versus other materials. 

Additionally, wood does not carry hazardous by-products or pollution as a result of its manufacturing process.

Finally, wooden windows are also highly efficient and durable against the elements. Whether it’s raining or shining outside, wooden frames stand tall. 

The only thing you need to look out for is rot, so keep the maintenance up! 

skylight vinyl windows being installed on a roof

Vinyl

Vinyl may not be the first to come to mind when one thinks of eco-friendly building materials, but it does possess a multitude of sustainable benefits.

Vinyl window frames can contribute to the overall eco-friendliness of your home, as it requires only minimal maintenance. They are recyclable and seldomly need to be repainted, stained, or refinished.  

Glass

Finally, glass is the most eco-friendly part of your windows. This is because glass is made from sand, which is a natural and renewable resource—the cycle is endless. 

Glass can be melted over and over again to be remade into new glass. So, look for windows made from recycled glass to really upgrade the sustainability level of your household.  

Remember that a large part of your home’s heat transfer happens via the window glass. Therefore, well-insulated and energy-efficient glass will effectively shield your house from outdoor elements and keep the temperature at ideal levels.

Bonus tip: some of the best types of window glass include glazed or double-paned

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Windows?

Here are some of the benefits that make eco-friendly windows a top choice among homeowners: 

You’ll be Saving the Environment

This one is a given—and doing our part in saving the environment adds more layers of protection to our planet and future generations. 

When you have windows that you can rely on, it domino effects to reduced water and electricity usage, ultimately minimizing your overall environmental impact. 

A family staring out their eco-friendly windows

Better Health for You and Your Family

When you choose eco-friendly windows, you are also directly protecting yourself and your family from exposure to harmful chemicals in the environment. 

The outdoor air is filled with hazardous substances that pose potential risks to your well-being in the long run. Having high-quality windows helps to minimize indoor air pollution. It’s something your health will thank you for. Who knew that something like windows could really help make a difference?

They’re Cost Effective

There is a myth that eco-friendly options could potentially break the bank, but we’re going to debunk that.

Prices always vary, but when you look at the bigger picture and calculate long-term expenditures, sustainable options help you save more money on utility bills. They consume less energy and boost the value of your home. 

So, it’s safe to say that eco-friendly windows aren’t pricey—they are priceless. 

Go Green with the Best Windows in Ontario

It’s time to go green with the best eco-friendly windows in Ontario! With our company reviews, comparison charts, and in-depth blogs, Ontario Window Reviews makes choosing the perfect windows for your home easier than ever. 

Check out our list of window contractor reviews today!

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