Windows are pivotal to the lived experience of a home. They impact the basic aesthetic and provide natural light, views, ventilation, and safety. However, they are also nearly always the largest single source of heat loss and gain - it's hard to overstate the importance of getting windows right, as they play a huge role in a building's energy use. Today, we're going to take a deep dive into high-performance architectural windows, exploring the technology that lets us control unwanted heat flow through conduction, convection, and radiation. We'll be looking at the technical specs U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), air leakage and visual transmittance, as well as the fundamental differences between US and European manufacturing philosophies.

Article from Passive House Accelerator:

How Windows Make (Or Break) Wall Performance

Andrew Dryden

Andrew Dryden is the Owner of Pivot Windows LLC. He is dedicated to promoting sustainable construction practices that enhance energy efficiency and overall building performance. His journey began during a transformative sabbatical year in the Pacific Northwest, where he constructed his own high-performance home. This hands-on experience ignited his passion for innovative building solutions and laid the foundation for Pivot Windows LLC.

At Pivot Windows, Andrew is at the helm of several key projects aimed at increasing the accessibility of high-performance windows for residential and commercial clients. His strategic approach to program management ensures that each project is executed with precision, from initial concept to final installation. By fostering strategic partnerships within the industry, Andrew is able to source cutting-edge products that meet the evolving needs of the market while maintaining affordability for his clients.

Team

Hosted by Kristof Irwin

Edited by Nico Mignardi

Produced by M. Walker