best result for your dollar, energy efficient windows

Here is my rule of thumb for best result for your dollar, energy efficient windows, for the east coast nsw, hunter valley...

1. Windows to the north should be big, and MUST have a 500mm overhang directly over the WINDOW
they should just be regular glass, single glazing

2. windows to the south and east should be smaller/ less area of glass to wall ratio, and should be "viridian comfort plus" single glazing

3. Windows to the west should be bare minimum opening, if at all. they should also be "comfort plus". Any large windows to the west needed eg. for a bedroom, should have a screen ( eg lattice or battens), set away from the window about 1m or so, so the room does not feel not boarded up, but the screen will cast a shadow over the window when the sun hits the west.


 IMAGE OF FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT'S AVERY COONLEY PLAYHOUSE:
one of my favourite windows ever!

4. Double glazing is to keep a house warm in the cold. Not really necessary in this area if the house is well  designed. Yes argon filled double glazing is the best, but so expensive! Instead, spend you money on foil under the roof, R2.5 batts in the ceiling, and R1 with foil in the walls.

5. Still cold? then get into curtains with pelmets for the winter. Curtains are such an under-rated house fashion item... you can wash them and pack them away for summer, (or still use in summer to keep cool- however external blinds are better for this...) and you can change your curtain prints with your fashion tastes!