For Designers

Endorsement/Green Programs

Energy-efficient windows are integral to meeting the energy-efficiency criteria for ENERGY STAR Homes and of several certification programs that endorse green home design. Green home certification adds value to a home by signaling to homebuyers that it provides energy efficiency, a healthy living space, and a reduced impact on the environment. Good energy performance of windows is vital for increased comfort and reduced energy waste and is therefore included as a criterion in most green homes programs.

ENERGY STAR® Homes
Homes that earn the ENERGY STAR must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR qualified homes include a variety of tried and true design practices and energy-efficient features, such as effective insulation, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and high-performance windows.
Learn about windows in ENERGY STAR Homes »

Two prominent green home programs are presently in their pilot stages:

LEED for Homes
Targeted at builders with a focus on sustainable design, this program assigns different levels of certification to homes that are constructed in an environmentally friendly manner and exceed the minimum energy efficiency criteria for ENERGY STAR® Homes.
Learn about windows in LEED for Homes »

 

NAHB's Model Green Home Building Guidelines
These guidelines by the National Association of Home Builders are targeted at mainstream builders who wish to incorporate green building features into homes. In order to achieve certification, a home must be constructed consistent with seven guiding principles, of which energy efficiency in excess of the minimum requirements of the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code® is one.
Learn more about windows in the Model Green Home Building Guidelines »