Most window moisture stems from condensation—the process where water vapor in the air turns into liquid when it encounters a cooler surface. But condensation is just one possible explanation. Understanding the root cause helps determine whether your windows need simple ventilation adjustments or full replacement. 

Indoor Humidity and Everyday Activities 

In the Gulf South, our homes naturally have higher humidity levels than in other parts of the country. When that warm, moist air encounters a cooler windowpane, condensation forms. 

Cooking, showering, laundry, and even breathing all release moisture into the air. Homes that are tightly sealed for energy efficiency may trap this moisture inside unless ventilation is addressed. Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are common hotspots for condensation because of how much humidity these areas generate. 

Seasonal Temperature Differences 

The clash between indoor and outdoor temperatures plays a big role in condensation. During winter, the inside of your home stays warm while the outside air cools. That cold exterior causes the inner glass surface to drop in temperature. When your warm indoor air touches that chilly glass, water droplets may appear on the inside of the window. 

In summer, the reverse can happen—especially with well-insulated windows. Cold interior air conditioning cools the window, and when hot, humid outdoor air touches the exterior, condensation can form on the outside. In most cases, exterior condensation isn’t a problem—it’s actually a sign your windows are insulating well. 

Poor Insulation or Leaky Windows 

Older windows, especially single-pane models, transfer air more easily as they are not as good insulators as newer double-pane windows. In our climate, this can introduced abnormal humidity inside your home which will lead to a more conducive environment for surface condensation. 

Additionally, compromised seals, gaps in caulking, or deteriorated weatherstripping can allow humid outdoor air or even rainwater to sneak inside the window assembly. In a region with frequent heavy rains and storms, even small leaks can introduce water that appears as condensation on or near your windows. 

Not all moisture means something’s wrong—but some types of moisture signal window failure. Knowing how to spot the difference can help you avoid unnecessary repairs or, conversely, catch a serious problem before it causes damage. 

Temporary Surface Condensation 

If you see moisture on the interior surface of your window—especially after cooking or showering—it’s likely just surface condensation. This type of moisture typically: 

• Appears in the morning or after high-humidity activities 
• Wipes away easily with a cloth 
• Disappears with ventilation or time 

It’s common in homes with high indoor humidity or insufficient airflow. If it’s occasional and isolated, it’s usually not a cause for concern. 

Persistent Condensation Between Panes 

Moisture trapped between the glass panes of a double-pane window is a different story. These windows are designed with an insulated seal that keeps an inert gas (like argon) between the panes to improve energy efficiency. If the seal fails, that gas escapes, and humid air seeps in. 

Over time, you may notice: 

• A cloudy or foggy appearance that doesn’t go away 
• Water droplets or streaks between the panes 
• White mineral deposits or haze that worsen over time 

This type of fogging won’t clear with ventilation or cleaning. The only way to fix a failed seal is to replace the insulated glass unit. 

Water Leaks and Frame Moisture (Not Glass Condensation) 

If you notice moisture that appears as actual water—such as pooling on the window sill or dripping down the window frame—and it’s not forming on the surface of the glass itself, this likely indicates a leak, not normal condensation. 

This type of water infiltration, especially after rain, may result from: 

• Failed or deteriorated caulking or flashing around the window 
• Cracked or damaged frame components 
• Water intrusion through surrounding walls or siding 

Unlike interior condensation that forms on glass due to temperature differences, these leaks signal structural or installation issues and should be addressed promptly. Left unchecked, they can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and even long-term damage to your home’s structure. 

Even if foggy glass seems like a cosmetic issue, persistent moisture can lead to real problems. Over time, moisture inside your windows affects your comfort, your energy bills, and your home’s condition. 

Obstructed Views and Aesthetics 

One of the main reasons we install windows is to let in light and provide a view. But when glass is clouded by condensation or haze between panes, those benefits disappear. Fogged windows: 

• Block natural light 
• Obscure your view outdoors 
• Create a neglected appearance from the outside 

For homeowners thinking of selling, visibly fogged windows can lower curb appeal and raise red flags for buyers or inspectors. 

Structural Damage 

Over time, repeated exposure to moisture can wear down the materials that surround your window. Paint may peel. Wood may swell, crack, or rot. Drywall and trim can absorb water and crumble. If condensation turns to leaks, you could even face water damage beneath the window, inside the wall cavity. 

Indoor Discomfort 

Humidity doesn’t just affect your windows—it impacts how your home feels. High moisture levels indoors can make the air feel muggy in summer and damp or chilly in winter. Your HVAC system must work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, often leading to higher energy bills and uneven comfort. 

At LAS, we design and install windows specifically built for the demands of Gulf Coast climates. Our moisture-resistant vinyl windows help homeowners fight back against fog, leaks, and energy loss. 

Here’s what sets LAS windows apart: 

Double-Pane Insulated Glass 

All LAS windows feature sealed double-pane glass with an argon gas fill. This creates a thermal barrier that resists condensation and keeps the interior glass temperature closer to the air inside your home—reducing the chances for fogging. 

Low-E Glass Coatings 

Low-E (low emissivity) coatings reflect heat and UV rays while improving energy efficiency. They help maintain a consistent glass temperature and reduce the contrast between indoor and outdoor air—one of the key triggers of condensation. 

Moisture-Resistant Vinyl Frames 

Unlike wood or metal, vinyl won’t rot, rust, or corrode. Our multi-chambered vinyl frames provide additional insulation and are built to custom measurements for each window opening. During installation, we use: 

• Triple-lined felt weatherstripping 
• High-performance caulking 
• Properly installed weep holes to drain incidental moisture 

This ensures a tight, weatherproof seal from day one. 

Built for Gulf Coast Conditions 

Our WeatherGard vinyl windows are designed, tested, and manufactured with our climate in mind. Whether it's intense humidity, driving rain, or sudden temperature swings, LAS windows are made to perform. They also meet Energy Star® and impact resistance standards, giving homeowners peace of mind during storm season. 

Expert Installation 

A high-quality window can only perform well if it’s installed correctly. Our trained installation crews follow best practices for waterproofing, sealing, and drainage. That means you won’t need to worry about hidden leaks or poor fits that can let moisture in. 

Even with well-made windows, a few smart habits can go a long way in keeping condensation at bay: 

• Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to remove humid air. 
• Open windows briefly on cooler, dry days to air out the house. 
• Avoid blocking airflow by keeping curtains or blinds slightly open. 
• Clean window weep holes and tracks to ensure proper drainage. 
• Inspect caulking and weatherstripping annually and re-seal as needed. 
• Use a dehumidifier if your home tends to feel damp or if you spot frequent condensation. 
• Replace or repair windows that show signs of seal failure, rotting frames, or chronic fogging. 

If your windows are simply too old or underperforming, no amount of dehumidifying will fully solve the problem. That’s when a full window replacement is often the best solution. 

Before exploring specific window materials and designs, it’s important to understand why window replacement is worthwhile. The Gulf Coast climate is known for hot, humid summers, frequent thunderstorms, and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm. Windows are your first line of defense against these elements, making it essential that they’re durable, energy-efficient, and storm-ready. There are three core reasons to replace your older, less efficient windows. 

1. Energy Efficiency
   Outdated windows can let in drafts and fail to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing single-pane windows with energy-efficient double-pane models can lead to substantial savings on heating and cooling costs. In the Gulf Coast, this is particularly important during the long, hot summer months when air conditioning systems run almost continuously. 
2. Storm Preparedness
   The Gulf Coast experiences hurricane season from June through November. Investing in windows specifically designed for storm resistance can protect your home from water infiltration, wind-borne debris, and sudden pressure changes. While no window is guaranteed to withstand every catastrophic event, high-quality replacement windows provide much more robust protection than older or poorly maintained ones. 
3. Curb Appeal and Property Value
   New windows enhance the look of your home and can increase its resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, well-chosen replacement windows often recoup a significant portion of their cost when you sell your home. Modern windows come in an array of styles and finishes that can upgrade both the interior and exterior appearance. 

When searching for the best replacement windows, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the choices. From material type to glass features, each option has its advantages and trade-offs. Below are the most critical factors to consider.

1. Window Materials

Vinyl Windows
Vinyl is popular for a reason: it’s cost-effective, energy-efficient, and relatively low-maintenance. For the Gulf Coast climate, vinyl stands up well to high humidity and is resistant to rot and corrosion. Additionally, vinyl frames can be welded at the corners, creating a tighter seal that resists air and water infiltration. At LAS, we focus on double-pane vinyl windows because we believe they strike the best balance between durability, energy savings, and affordability for the region. 

Wood Windows
Wood frames offer a classic, timeless look. However, in humid climates, wood is susceptible to warping, swelling, and even rotting if not meticulously maintained. While treated or clad wood windows can mitigate these concerns, they generally require more upkeep and a bigger budget. 

Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass is often touted for its longevity and stability. But as with wood, you may pay a higher price for fiberglass—sometimes two or three times the cost of vinyl. Fiberglass frames typically have corners that are screwed or gasketed together, which can develop leaks over time. In the Gulf Coast climate, the superior seal of a welded vinyl frame tends to deliver better long-term performance.

2. Glass Options

Double-Pane Windows
A double-pane window features two layers of glass separated by a sealed air gap. This design offers excellent insulation against temperature extremes and noise. Double-pane is especially beneficial in hot climates like the Gulf Coast, as it slows heat transfer into your home, helping to keep interior temperatures stable. Plus, a single seal in the insulating glass (IG) unit reduces the chance of condensation or failure compared to more complex designs. 

Triple-Pane Windows
Triple-pane windows provide extra insulation, which is beneficial in cold climates. However, for Gulf Coast homes, the added layer provides minimal additional benefit compared to its higher cost. Double-pane windows with Low-E coatings offer better energy efficiency and reliability in hot, humid environments. Not only is it more expensive, but it also includes two seals in the IG unit, effectively doubling the chances of seal failure over time. For most homeowners in Louisiana, Mississippi, or Alabama, double-pane windows are more than sufficient and generally more cost-effective. 

Low-E Coatings
Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings on the glass help reflect infrared light, helping maintain more consistent indoor temperatures. This is beneficial in sunny Gulf Coast climates, as it can reduce heat gain and lower cooling bills. Low-E coatings can also block many harmful UV rays, helping to prevent furniture and flooring from fading.

3. Window Styles

Choosing a window style goes beyond aesthetics—it can also influence ventilation, lighting, and ease of cleaning. While there are numerous styles on the market, here are a few that commonly suit Gulf Coast homes: 

• Double-Hung: Both the top and bottom sashes move, allowing flexible ventilation. These windows are popular for their traditional look and easy cleaning features. 
• Casement Windows: These wind-resistant windows are hinged at the sides and open with a crank. Casement windows seal tightly against the frame, making them ideal for storm-prone Gulf Coast homes seeking extra protection from wind and rain. 
• Awning Windows: Hinged at the top, awning windows open outward, creating a small awning that can protect the interior from light rain. They’re ideal for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms. 
• Picture Windows: These large, fixed-pane windows are perfect for maximizing views and natural light. While they don’t open, they offer superb insulation due to fewer moving parts. 

Depending on your goals—enhanced ventilation, unobstructed views, or maximum storm protection—your LAS consultant can guide you toward the style that best matches your home and lifestyle. 

Embarking on a window replacement project is not a small endeavor, especially when it comes to research, budgeting, and narrowing down the vast array of materials and styles. That’s why working with an experienced professional is invaluable. A knowledgeable consultant: 

1. Provides Personalized Assessments
   Every home has unique features—like the surrounding landscape, the orientation of windows to sunlight, and local building codes. Professionals can assess these elements to recommend windows that strike the right balance between function and aesthetics. 
2. Ensures Compliance With Local Codes
   Building codes in Gulf Coast communities can be quite strict due to storm risk. Professional installers understand these requirements and can help you pick windows that meet or exceed local regulations. 
3. Manages Installation Details
   Poor installation can negate the benefits of even the highest-quality windows. A reputable installer ensures proper sealing, alignment, and anchoring, all of which are crucial for longevity and performance. 
4. Handles Warranties and Post-Installation Support
   Should any issues arise, a professional team can assist with warranty claims and troubleshooting. This peace of mind can be worth its weight in gold when it comes to an investment as significant as new windows. 

LAS has served homeowners in the Gulf Coast region for decades. We focus on double-pane vinyl windows specifically designed to withstand local weather conditions—be it scorching heat, high humidity, or tropical storms. Here’s how we make your home window replacement journey more manageable: 

1. Expert Consultation
   Our experienced consultants meet with you to discuss your design preferences, budget, and performance requirements. We’re here to answer questions about everything from glass types to frame materials, ensuring you feel confident in your choices. 
2. Precision Customization
   Every window we install is custom-made to fit your home’s exact dimensions. This precision crafting maximizes efficiency and ensures a secure, weather-tight fit. 
3. Professional Installation
   Our factory-trained crew uses state-of-the-art techniques to install your windows. We understand how to work within the challenging Gulf Coast climate, ensuring that your new windows deliver top-notch performance. 
4. Gulf Coast-Specific Solutions
   LAS windows aren’t one-size-fits-all. We design our products to address the distinct demands of Gulf Coast living, such as combating intense humidity and preparing for tropical storm surges. Thanks to sturdy vinyl frames and advanced low-E coatings, our double-pane windows can help you conserve energy and maintain indoor comfort year-round. 
5. Comprehensive Warranty
   A solid warranty reflects our commitment to quality. Our team stands behind our products, and we’ll be there to assist with any post-installation questions or concerns. 

In an area prone to heat, humidity, and the occasional hurricane, choosing the right windows can be a game-changer. LAS windows are built with these conditions in mind: 

• Humidity Resistance: Vinyl is less prone to swelling or rot compared to wood, making it ideal for the Gulf Coast’s damp air. 
• Storm Readiness: Our double-pane windows, combined with robust vinyl frames, help protect against strong winds and rain. While no window is bulletproof in the face of extreme storms, each element of our design—from durable seals to strong framing—offers peace of mind. 
• Energy Efficiency: Through a combination of low-E glass, double-pane construction, and welded vinyl corners, our windows minimize air infiltration and reduce heat exchange. This can lessen the burden on your HVAC system, particularly during peak summer months. 

Louisiana’s hot, humid climate presents unique challenges for homeowners striving to keep their homes comfortable and energy efficient. With summer temperatures often soaring into the 90s and intense humidity adding to the discomfort, cooling costs can quickly climb—especially if windows are outdated or inefficient. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that up to 30% of a home’s energy loss can be due to inefficient windows, a costly factor for Louisiana residents as energy prices rise. High humidity and frequent storms can lead to moisture buildup, mold, and rot in older windows. 

This guide explores the best energy-efficient window options for homeowners in New Orleans, Metairie, Covington, and beyond, helping you lower energy costs, maintain indoor comfort, and protect your home from Louisiana’s challenging climate. 

Louisiana’s climate calls for energy-efficient windows that are specifically designed to handle these challenges. Here are the most important features to consider when selecting windows for your Louisiana home and why they matter in this hot, humid region.

Low-E Glass Coatings 

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is a critical feature of energy-efficient windows. This special coating reflects infrared light, keeping your home cooler by minimizing heat gain from the sun. At the same time, Low-E glass allows visible light to enter your home, maintaining a bright and welcoming interior without the excessive heat. 

Benefits of Low-E Glass: 

• Reduces heat gain, making it easier to keep your home cool. 

• Blocks harmful UV rays, preventing furniture and flooring from fading. 

Look for High-Quality E-Glass 

The quality of the E-glass in your window is also important. All E-glass is not created equal. 

At LAS, we use a special type of glass known as soft-coat, clear low E-glass. This glass is known for its excellent insulation properties. This E-glass is better than any other solar control low E-glass on the market, with 50% light transmittance. You can learn more about E-glass in our guide on the topic. 

If you're looking for the best windows for hot climates, this attention to materials makes a huge difference. It's why our ENERGY STARTM rating exceeds the southern U.S. requirements by 30%. 

Multi-Pane Construction 

Windows with multiple panes—typically double or triple-pane—are another essential feature of energy-efficient design. These windows consist of two or three layers of glass with insulating gas (like argon or krypton) between the panes, creating an additional barrier to heat transfer. 

Benefits of Multi-Pane Windows: 

• Improved insulation reduces heat transfer, keeping cool air inside and hot air outside. 

• Enhances energy efficiency, which can lead to lower energy bills. 

In Louisiana’s hot, humid climate, multi-pane windows are crucial for keeping your home comfortable. They not only reduce the amount of heat entering your home but also insulate it against outdoor temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for the state’s long summers. 

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) 

The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a window blocks heat from sunlight. Windows with a low SHGC are ideal for hot climates like Louisiana, as they prevent excessive solar radiation from entering your home. 

Benefits of a Low SHGC: 

• Reduces the amount of heat that enters your home from sunlight. 

• Helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight. 

Louisiana homeowners face intense sunlight, particularly in the summer months. By choosing windows with a lower SHGC, you can significantly reduce the heat entering your home, easing the burden on your cooling system and lowering your energy bills. 

Durable, Moisture-Resistant Frames 

Louisiana’s humid climate requires window framing materials that can withstand moisture, rot, and warping. Two materials commonly used for this purpose are vinyl and fiberglass: 

• Vinyl: A highly popular choice for its affordability and resilience, LAS vinyl windows are specifically suited to handle Louisiana’s humidity. Vinyl is resistant to moisture, does not warp, and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal, durable choice for the state’s challenging climate. 

• Fiberglass: Another moisture-resistant material, fiberglass is valued for its durability and longevity. However, vinyl remains the preferred option for many due to its affordability and strong performance in humid conditions. 

Benefits of Moisture-Resistant Frames: 

• Prevents warping, rotting, and mold growth, which are common in high-humidity areas. 

• Increases the longevity of your windows, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. 

The high humidity and frequent storms in Louisiana can take a toll on traditional window frames. Choosing durable, moisture-resistant materials like vinyl ensures that your windows will hold up against the elements for years to come, saving you money on repairs and replacements. 

Replacing windows that are ten years or older can lower your energy bills by up to 15% per year. This is especially true for homes with single-pane or even standard double-paned clear-glass windows. According to ENERGY STAR, switching to energy-efficient windows can save homeowners over $450 every year. 

Whether you're trying to reduce your monthly energy costs or your old windows have become unsafe, it may be time to look at replacement windows for your home. If you live in southeast Louisiana, where it is hot and humid, make sure your replacement windows have these elements. These elements will provide the best protection, energy efficiency, and comfort. 

Start with the Frame and Go with Vinyl Windows 

The best windows for hot climates offer great protection from the weather. They stop leaks and drafts that can happen with older windows. 

A common cause of these drafts can come down to the frames themselves. People often use wooden frames in hot, humid climates. These frames can rot or warp over time. 

Instead, choose high-quality vinyl window frames. These outperform every other type of frame in a hot, humid climate. 

The Best Windows for Hot Climates Are Made in Hot Climates 

Do you know where your window was manufactured? You may be wondering why this is important. It is a key factor in choosing the right windows for areas like southeast Louisiana with similar climates. 

When looking at window manufacturers and design, you'll realize a lot of windows are manufactured for broad distribution across the United States and mild climates. Unfortunately, this leaves a few problems when you consider our extreme climate. Southeast Louisiana faces 100-degree summers, high humidity, and moisture, as well as our sometimes-turbulent storm seasons. 

One simple example of this is the location and quality of E-glass used in your window. E-glass is a surface on your glass that reflects infrared light (heat). It's an important feature for energy efficiency. 

Unfortunately, some manufacturers put the E-glass surface facing inside to keep heat in. This makes sense for climates with typically colder air, like the Midwest or northern states. Not so for our hot climate. 

In cold climates, a large portion of your utility bill is used for heating your home. This means that manufacturers may not prioritize having the best E-glass. In the southern region, most of your yearly utility costs go towards cooling your home. Blocking heat from the sun is crucial for windows, making it a top priority for LAS. 

Through the years, our staff engineers at LAS Shutters + Windows have tweaked our window design over and over to stand up to our southeastern Louisiana climate. At LAS, we put the E-glass facing out. Think about the temperature in your car during summer when all of the windows have been rolled up for a few hours. Would you want the E-glass facing the interior of your car and keeping the heat in or facing the outside to keep the heat out? 

Finding a local manufacturer is important because they know and design for your unique climate. 

If you live in Louisiana, upgrading to energy-efficient windows can provide immediate and long-term benefits. From reducing energy costs to protecting your home from the harsh climate, here’s why now is the perfect time to invest in new windows.

Rising Energy Costs 

The combination of high summer temperatures and increasing energy prices means that cooling costs can take a huge toll on your budget. Outdated or inefficient windows can let in significant heat, forcing your air conditioning system to work overtime. 

Louisiana’s long, hot summers place a heavy burden on air conditioning units. By upgrading to energy-efficient windows, homeowners can save up to 20% on energy costs, especially during peak cooling months. 

Moisture and Humidity Control 

Louisiana’s humidity can wreak havoc on traditional windows, leading to moisture buildup, mold, and rot. Energy-efficient windows, however, are built to handle these challenges with moisture-resistant framing materials and superior seals that keep out humidity. 

Benefits of Moisture-Resistant Windows: 

• Prevents Moisture Damage: High humidity can cause wooden window frames to warp, crack, or rot. Energy-efficient windows made from vinyl or fiberglass resist moisture and maintain their structural integrity. 

• Improves Indoor Air Quality: By preventing moisture buildup, energy-efficient windows reduce the risk of mold and mildew, which can negatively affect your home’s air quality. 

Storm Protection and Durability 

Louisiana is frequently hit by tropical storms, hurricanes, and heavy rains, and standard windows often don’t hold up well against these elements. Energy-efficient windows offer a two-in-one solution: increased energy efficiency and enhanced durability during storms. 

Benefits of Impact-Resistant Windows: 

• Safety and Protection: Impact-resistant windows are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris during severe storms, providing an extra layer of safety for your home. 

• Long-Lasting Durability: Energy-efficient windows, with reinforced frames and seals, are built to last, meaning fewer repairs and replacements after storm season. 

Homes in areas like Metairie and New Orleans often face extreme weather conditions. By upgrading to impact-resistant, energy-efficient windows, you can ensure your home is better protected during storm season while also improving energy efficiency. 

Selecting the right replacement windows for your Louisiana home goes beyond just picking energy-efficient options. While performance is important, there are several additional factors to consider that will ensure your new windows truly meet your needs for years to come.

Local Climate and Window Ratings 

When choosing windows for a hot, humid region like Louisiana, it's crucial to evaluate specific window performance ratings. These ratings provide important insights into how well windows can handle the climate: 

• U-Factor: This measures the rate of heat transfer through a window. The lower the U-factor, the better the window’s insulation. In Louisiana, windows with a low U-factor help keep cool air inside, reducing energy consumption. 

• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): A lower SHGC is preferable for Louisiana’s sunny climate, as it reduces the amount of heat entering the home. 

• Air Leakage (AL): This measures how much air can pass through the window’s seals. For humid areas like Louisiana, it’s important to choose windows with a low AL rating to prevent humidity from seeping in, which could lead to moisture problems. 

Budget and Long-Term Savings 

Window replacement is an investment, so it’s important to balance your budget with long-term savings. Energy-efficient windows typically come with a higher upfront cost, but they can save you significantly over time through reduced energy bills. 

• Initial Costs: Different window types, materials, and energy-efficient features come at varying price points. It’s important to work with your budget while considering the long-term return on investment. 

• Energy Rebates and Incentives: Check for local energy-saving rebates or incentives in Louisiana that can help offset the cost of installing energy-efficient windows. Many energy providers offer rebates for upgrading to more efficient windows, which can help reduce your initial expenses. 

• Long-Term Savings: Although the upfront cost of energy-efficient windows might be higher, the savings on energy bills over the years often offset the initial investment, especially in hot climates like Louisiana. 

Understanding the cost-benefit analysis is crucial for homeowners who want to improve their home’s energy efficiency while staying within budget. Explore potential savings on energy bills and available rebates when making your window selection. 

Since we design, manufacture, install, and warrant our windows, we work towards constant and continuous improvement for our customers. When we begin to see problems or flaws in the design, our engineers go back to the drawing board and modify them. In that way, we create the best windows for hot climates like southeastern Louisiana. 

For more information about our windows, or to get a free estimate, contact us today. 

In the winter, your heating bill skyrockets as you pad around your home in wooly slippers and heavy sweaters. In humid Louisiana, you can’t ever seem to escape the heat of summer, especially at night. Sound familiar? If cold drafts plague your winter days and sticky heat makes for sleepless nights, here’s a look at how much energy you are losing (and how to prevent heat loss) through windows.

How much heat is lost through windows? 

It’s shocking how much heat is lost through windows. The most recent data available in a global study conducted by the United Nations found that buildings use 30% of all global energy – and windows use half of that. This means that even for fixed windows on high-rise buildings, heat loss through windows is a significant issue.

On an individual scale, your old, leaky windows could be responsible for 25-30% of your home’s heating and cooling bill. The less efficient the window, the higher your energy bills will be. This thermal image, taken by a professional energy auditor, shows how the warmest air (shown in red) escapes through the windows and doors.

How is heat lost through windows exactly?

Nearly two-thirds of the loss occurs when heat contacts inefficient window glass. Single-paned windows are the biggest offenders, but this heat loss can occur in older double-paned windows too. As your windows age, you may be paying to heat the air trapped between the inner and outer panes of glass (instead of your home!). The remaining heat loss is due to leaks in the frame and seals of the window itself.

The good news is this: replacing your leaky windows is one of the most effective ways to increase the comfort, value, and energy efficiency of your home.

How to keep heat from escaping through windows

For new construction, one of the first things to consider preventing heat loss through windows is the energy-efficient orientation of your home. In warm climates like Louisiana, plan for a north-south orientation, with windows on the north side of your home.

In a pre-existing home, you still have tons of options to minimize heat loss through windows. An energy audit can help you measure energy loss through your windows before you begin to make changes.

The next step is to select the best windows to minimize heat loss. When picking efficient windows, you should consider a number of different factors.

• The U-factor: The rate of heat loss for an entire window. Lower U-factors mean more efficient windows with less heat loss.
• The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): This measures how effectively the window blocks heat coming from the sun. The lower a window’s SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits.
• Energy Star rating: In the South, humidity is tough on windows. Energy Star-certified windows meet strict efficiency standards and are crafted by certified partners. At LAS Shutters + Windows, our rating exceeds the southern U.S. requirements by 30%.

One of the ways windows minimize heat loss (and keep your home cool in the steamy Louisiana summers) is by using low e-glass. This energy-efficient window glass is coated with thin layers of metallic material that prevents heat from entering (or leaving) through the glass. Low e-glass glass reflects 40 to 70% of the sun’s energy back where it came from so your home stays cooler in the summer. It can also reduce heat loss through windows by as little as 18% or as much as 30% when properly fitted and installed.

Soft coat low e-glass performs at a much higher level when it comes to blocking infrared light. LAS Shutters + Windows exclusively uses this type of glass in our windows because it is ideal for southern climates with high air conditioning usage.

Windows Made For Your Home

Investing in custom windows is another way to prevent heat loss through windows. Some new construction is built to a template that automatically fits standard window sizes, but this is not always the case. In many of the historic homes in Louisiana, you’ll rarely find a well-fitted “off the rack” window. Custom-crafted and properly installed windows not only enhance the look of your home but also save you money on energy bills and increase the comfortable enjoyment of your home.

These changes don’t just make you feel good—they save you money, too.

In 2020, the Efficient Windows Collaborative (EWC), a coalition of government agencies, research organizations, and manufacturers that promote efficient window technology, found that homeowners in Louisiana’s climate can save up to $541 a year (.pdf) with the most energy-efficient types of window.

If you choose a high-quality window and have a well-qualified, professional, experienced company install your windows, you can expect from 25% to 52% savings on your energy bill. For example, investing $10,000 in replacement windows could save you 40% of your annual $3000 bill, or $1200 a year.

Not only will your savings make up for the cost of your new windows, but you will also experience a more comfortable home with enhanced beauty and value.

Invest in your home

Your home is likely your largest investment. Protecting it with energy-efficient windows brings one of the best returns on your investment. This is one remodeling project (.pdf) that appeals to both buyers and sellers of new construction and historic homes alike.

More than that, though, is the year-round comfort and pleasure of having an efficiently heated and cooled home. Minimizing energy loss through windows means that you and your family can enjoy every room in the house, all year round.

At LAS Shutters + Windows, we custom-craft and expertly install windows, shutters, doors, and siding, using materials and methods designed for the Gulf South’s unique climate. With over six decades of experience and “Best of Home” awards since 2016, we are ready to provide you with extraordinary service and high-quality windows.

Get in touch for a free estimate today!