According to climatologists, the climate in Maryland is rather complex, due to its wide range of topographic features, such as altitude, mountain ranges, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The Encyclopedia Britannica categories the state of Maryland as continental across the western part of the state and humid subtropical in the eastern portion of the state, thanks to the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay.
More specifically, across the state “summers are warm to hot and humid in Maryland, with peak temperatures above 100°F in July. The Atlantic coastal areas have higher humidity and consequently [more] oppressive summers than the interior. Spring and fall are mild and prone to sudden changes in weather. Frost is common in the lower valleys as cold air masses tend to stay close to the ground. Winters are severely cold and snowy, and nights often register below 0°F” (Weather-US.com).
As a Maryland homeowner, it is important to take the part of the state in which you live into consideration when you are looking into a replacement window installation. Read on to determine the best windows for the Maryland climate.
Best Windows for Maryland Climate: Considerations
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Take both SHGC and U-factors into account
SHGC stands for the solar heat gain coefficient. It is a number between 0 and 1 that indicates how much solar heat is getting into your home. Not surprisingly, the lower the SHGC, the less solar heat that makes its way into your home, and vice-versa.
The U-Factor, on the other hand “measures how well the window insulates. While the U-Factor can take any value, in general for windows it ranges from 0.20 to 1.20” (energy.gov). Therefore, windows with low U-Factors provide the most insulation for your home. This can be a benefit in both warm weathers (by keeping heat out and cool air inside, where it belongs) and during cold weather months (by keeping cold air out and warm heat inside).
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For the warmer, subtropical areas across the state
You will want to select a window with a low U-Factor, as well as a low SHGC. The low SHGC will prevent overheated rooms during the warm weather months. House-Energy.com also recommends the following frames for warmer areas: “low conductive foam-filled fiberglass and vinyl frame.”
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For the colder areas across the state
Just like the warmer areas, you will still want a window with a low U-Factor, but instead of a low SHGC, you should look for a higher SHGC. That’s because you want any solar heat that enters your home to help warm it (along with your heating system). In addition to a low U-Factor and high SHGC windows, double- and triple-glazed windows can help as well. And when it comes to the window frames, House-Energy.com recommends low conductive foam-filled fiberglass and vinyl frames.
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What if my home is located in an area of the state that is a mix of the two?
In this case, consider House Energy’s recommendation to install windows with a low U-Factor but a more moderate SHGC. In other words, choose windows with an SHGC that is not extremely high or low. Like the previous recommendations, you should still consider low conductive foam-filled fiberglass and vinyl frames for homes in areas that are mixed.
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Remember that installation is important, too!
Devoting time to researching the best windows for your home, asking lots of questions, and really considering what works in your area (and with your budget) can be time well spent. However, if you don’t do your due diligence to research the company that is going to install your windows – to ensure a proper replacement window installation – you have essentially wasted your precious time.
Think about it: even the best windows won’t deliver the energy efficiency and the benefits promised from the window manufacturer if hot and cool air can enter (or escape), due to shoddy workmanship. And during the rainy months, hurricane season, or after a snowstorm? With poorly installed windows, you now run the risk of getting water into your home. At the very least, allowing moisture to get trapped, and that can lead to dangerous mold and mildew issues.
Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company: Providing the Best Window Installation Baltimore, MD
Clearly, in a state like Maryland, the complex climate can beg the question, “What are the best windows for Maryland’s climate?” In this case, seeking assistance from those who are knowledgeable about both your geographic area and the best window to suit your needs is most helpful.
At the same time, you need contractors who will ensure proper installation with a perfect fit for your windows. So, if you’re looking into a replacement window installation, contact Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company. We are servicing the Maryland area’s homeowners for all their window needs.
When you search “window installation Baltimore, MD” online, you’ll find several options. But none can quite match the quality, affordability, and professional, customer-centered experience that Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company offers its clients.
We know Maryland – and its climate – and that is why Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company has been providing replacement window installation to customers who have been consistently satisfied with the high-quality materials we use, along with experienced contractors who complete the replacement window installation on time and on budget.
If you are ready to explore options for your replacement window installation, contact our qualified, responsive staff today at (410) 918-0563. Or, visit us online at https://midatlanticremodelingco.com/.
