Colorado’s New Energy Star V7 Window Requirements: What Homeowners and Manufacturers Need to Know

In a significant step toward improving home energy efficiency, Colorado will require all new and replacement windows to meet Energy Star Version 7 (V7) standards starting in 2026. While this new regulation is aimed at reducing energy consumption and increasing sustainability, it also presents challenges for manufacturers and homeowners alike.

What’s Changing with Energy Star V7?

The latest Energy Star V7 standards introduce stricter requirements for U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). These updates are designed to improve insulation and reduce excessive heat gain in warmer months. In the Northern Climate Zone, which includes Colorado, the new U-factor requirement has been lowered to ≤ 0.22, making windows significantly more energy-efficient compared to previous standards.

This means manufacturers must innovate their product lines to comply with the new rules, and homeowners will need to ensure any new windows installed in 2026 or beyond meet these specifications.

Vinyl Windows Lead the Way, But All Materials Must Adapt

One key takeaway from the industry’s evolution is that vinyl windows are well ahead of the curve. Currently, 70% of the market consists of vinyl-frame windows due to their cost-effectiveness, durability, and insulation performance. Many vinyl window manufacturers already offer products that meet the Energy Star V7 criteria.

However, for wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and composite windows, the transition may be more complex. Some of these materials will require additional advancements, such as higher-performance glass coatings, triple-pane designs, or improved gas fills like Argon or Krypton to meet compliance.

Benefits of Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows have become the dominant choice for homeowners, and for good reason. Some of the key benefits include:

• Affordability: Vinyl windows are among the most cost-effective window options available.

• Energy Efficiency: With multi-chambered frames and excellent insulation properties, vinyl windows help maintain indoor temperatures.

• Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, vinyl doesn’t require repainting or sealing and is resistant to moisture and rot.

• Durability: These windows are highly resistant to warping, cracking, and peeling, making them ideal for Colorado’s varying climate.

• Variety of Styles: Available in numerous colors and finishes, vinyl windows can complement almost any home aesthetic.

Benefits of Composite and Fiberglass Windows

For homeowners looking for premium alternatives, composite and fiberglass windows offer a blend of performance and aesthetics.

Composite Windows

• Strength and Stability: Made from a mix of materials, composite windows offer superior strength and stability compared to vinyl.

• Wood-Like Appearance: Many composite windows mimic the look of real wood while offering better resistance to moisture and rot.

• Energy Efficiency: These windows often contain thermal insulating cores, helping improve home efficiency.

Fiberglass Windows

• Exceptional Durability: Fiberglass windows are known for their resistance to expansion and contraction, making them ideal for Colorado’s extreme temperature shifts.

• High Insulating Properties: With low thermal conductivity, fiberglass helps homes maintain consistent indoor temperatures year-round.

• Superior Strength: These windows can hold larger panes of glass, allowing for better views and more natural light.

• Longevity: Fiberglass windows often last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance.

Challenges Ahead for Manufacturers and Homeowners

While the shift toward stricter efficiency standards is a win for sustainability, it presents several hurdles:

• Higher Costs: Homeowners can expect a 7-10% increase in window costs, particularly for products that require additional coatings or multiple panes to comply.

  
  
  
  

• Manufacturing Adjustments: Many window manufacturers will need to redesign product lines, particularly in non-vinyl categories.

• Installation Considerations: Windows built for high-altitude environments like Colorado require careful gas-fill management to prevent glass collapse or pressure-related failures.

Remod Home Solutions: Your Expert in Energy-Efficient Windows

As Colorado moves toward these updated regulations, Remod Home Solutions is here to help homeowners navigate the changes. Whether you’re looking for high-performance vinyl, fiberglass, or wood-clad windows, we offer expert guidance on Energy Star V7 compliance and high-efficiency options.

Have questions about what the new requirements mean for your home? Contact Remod Home Solutions today—we’re ready to help you make the best energy-efficient choice for Colorado’s evolving market.