We are going to be building in a few months and we are currently trying to spec up the plans for construction and approval. We have 20 windows - 8 are twin double hung, 3 are double hung with fixed panel in the centre, 4 are fixed highlight windows (all facing NW), 1 is a fixed angled highlight window (NE facing, 1500 high by 1850 wide)), and 2 are powered louvred highlight windows (facing NW). Plus we have a double slider door (2100 x 3600) and a regular sliding door (2100 x 1800).

We know nothing about windows but we are keen to make these windows reasonably energy efficient (without going nuts on the price). What are features we should be looking for? What are do's and don'ts to window selection? Is there anything we should keep in mind? Is there anything we should try to steer away from? Any websites which provide helpful info?

We're in the Newcastle (NSW) area, if that's relevant.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Peta

Without going nuts ...... first if you have westerly facing windows, a green tint redcudes the IR (Infra red) light alot, and this is what heats up your room. The next option is double glazing which keeps in heat during the winter, but doesn't stop the heat in summer. There is the option of tinted double glazed (cool in summer, warm in winter) They also have special coatings E glass. You have a few option and one will hit the sweet spot for $$$ and functionality. Try not to mix and match tints in the same room, looks strange

Regarding using tinted glass to stop infra red... yes it will prevent or reduce radiant infra red from passing through, but the energy is just absorbed by the glass and re-radiated just like a panel heater. Put your hand on tinted glass in the sun, it's hot just like a radiator.

The only solution to stop heat from the sun is either to shade the window or to use low-E glass which reflects the radiant heat back - just make sure you incorporate the low-E in double glazing, not single glazing - or you will have problems.

Ed