How do I choose the right new windows for my home?
Do you offer custom-build windows to fit an odd-sized opening?
When should a homeowner consider replacing windows in their home?
What causes condensation on windows?
How do vinyl windows compare with windows made from wood and aluminum?
What kind of maintenance do my new windows require?
Aren't beautiful vinyl windows an oxymoron?
Do replacement windows really pay for themselves or is that just a sales line?
What are the advantages of custom replacement windows over pre-made, standard-size windows stocked at home centers and lumber yards?
What is insulated glass and why is it important for use in windows and patio doors?
What are R-values and U-values?
What is low-e glass and why should I consider it?
What is the best way to evaluate a window's energy performance?
What is ENERGY STAR and how does a window company qualify for ENERGY STAR compliance?
What is AAMA and why is it important?

Q: How do I choose the right new windows for my home?

A: When thinking about replacement of your old windows, there are a number of factors you should consider to help make the best decision.   Appearance, performance and durability are always important.



Q: Do you offer custom-build windows to fit an odd-sized opening?

A: Yes, the manufacturers we work with all offer custom-built windows in a variety of shapes and sizes.



Q: When should a homeowner consider replacing windows in their home?

A: A homeowner should consider replacing their windows if:

• Their windows aren't energy efficient. 
• Their wood frames are rotting. 
• They get excessive amounts of condensation, fading of furniture and draperies. 
• They are tired of painting and staining. 
• They can feel drafts while sitting near their current windows. 
 

  
Q: What causes condensation on windows?
 
A: Condensation, or "sweating," is a natural occurrence on all windows and is caused by excess humidity, or invisible water vapor, present in the air. When this water vapor comes in contact with a surface which is at a cooler temperature, the vapor turns to visible droplets of moisture.
 
Each window has many features built in to keep the temperature of the glass as warm as possible and thus reduce condensation. Our insulating glass units provide superior energy efficiency to reduce the potential for condensation. However, there is no such thing as a condensation-free window in high humidity conditions. Controlling the amount of moisture in your home is the most effective action you can take to avoid condensation. 



Q: How do vinyl windows compare with windows made from wood and aluminum?
 
A: Vinyl windows compare very favorably to those made of other building materials. Vinyl allows for smooth operation year round because of its self lubricating properties and the fact that it does not shrink, swell or bend during harsh weather conditions. Long-lasting beauty, low maintenance and excellent thermal efficiency ratings give vinyl windows a winning edge over other types of replacement windows and are very often more economical.
 
Vinyl windows and doors are rapidly capturing a major market share as more builders and homeowners learn about vinyl's outstanding value and economy.



Q: What kind of maintenance do my new windows require?
 
A: The vinyl windows we sell and install are virtually maintenance free. They are unaffected by moisture, salt air, pollution and airborne chemicals. Vinyl will not pit, peel, flake or corrode making it unnecessary to paint. Cleaning is easy using a simple cloth and mild detergent. Do not use harsh detergents or solvents as these could damage the finish or appearance of the windows.



Q:  Aren't beautiful vinyl windows an oxymoron? 
 
A: Years ago that may have been true. However, today—with the options available and with advances in window design technology—quality vinyl windows are both beautiful and unique. For example, home owners can choose from sculptured or sleek window styles; white, almond or woodgrain vinyl finishes; standard or diamond grids; and beveled, leaded, etched or stained glass. And these are just a few of the options available.

There are still old fashioned, low-end vinyl windows available, but the new designs are beautiful, maintenance-free and energy efficient.



Q:  Do replacement windows really pay for themselves or is that just a sales line?

A: If you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows, it’s true. Savings will vary, but expertly engineered and well-built windows lower home energy consumption. With vinyl-framed windows, maintenance is also virtually eliminated. No need to scrape and paint windows.

These energy and maintenance savings will allow you to recoup your window investment over time. 



Q:  What are the advantages of custom replacement windows over pre-made, standard-size windows stocked at home centers and lumber yards?

A: Standard windows typically cost less in the beginning, but other expenses and factors—like additional labor and the disruption to the home—far outweigh the original savings. For example, installing stock windows requires that you add brick or siding to the exterior, and drywall or other materials to the interior.

Because custom windows are made to fit perfectly, they provide the best energy efficiency (which saves energy costs) and install much more easily and with very little mess. Also, because of the myriad of options available that affect appearance and efficiency, custom windows allow consumers to design exactly the windows they need or want and offer the best solution to the problems you want to solve by replacing the window.



Q:  What is insulated glass and why is it important for use in windows and patio doors? 

A: Insulated glass consists of two pieces of glass sealed to a spacer. This creates an insulated air space between the two pieces of glass, resulting in better thermal performance. Insulated glass also reduces condensation while keeping the heat in during the winter and the heat out during the summer.



Q: What are R-values and U-values?

A: The R-value is the resistance a material has to the flow of heat (the higher the R-value, the greater the resistance).
 
The U-value is the amount of heat that is transferred through a material. (the lower the U-value, the better insulating quality).



Q:  What is low-e glass and why should I consider it?

A: Low-e glass is short for low-emissivity glass. It has a very thin coat of material on the glass to make it more efficient, especially in very sunny, hot areas.  It helps reflect standing heat away from the surface of the glass, keeping unwanted heat out in the summer and desired heat inside in the winter. Low-e glass is the most cost effective way to increase the energy efficiency of the windows.

Low-e coatings can also help reduce furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that enters the home. Harmful ultraviolet radiation can alter the chemical structure of dyes and other colorants in carpets and furniture causing fading.



Q: What is the best way to evaluate a window's energy performance?

A: The easiest way to compare energy performance of different windows and doors is to read the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. It provides valuable energy efficiency information about the product including the u-value, solar heat gain and visible transmittance values. Also, check to see if the product is ENERGY STAR® qualified.






Q:  What is ENERGY STAR and how does a window company qualify for ENERGY STAR compliance?

A: ENERGY STAR was started by The United States Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR helps businesses and consumers become aware of what products save energy to save money while protecting the environment for future generations. When a product, such as a Silver Line window, meets the requirements for ENERGY STAR that product then qualifies for the program.



Q:  What is AAMA and why is it important?

A: The AAMA established standards for structural integrity, air infiltration, water infiltration resistance and forced entry resistance.
 
Structural Integrity is the ability to withstand wind and other dynamic pressures. This is rated in design pressure (DP). The higher a product's rating design pressure, the greater the amount of wind or pressure the window will withstand.
 
Air Infiltration tests involve the equivalent of 25 mph wind. The lower the air infiltration rating the better.
 
Water Infiltration tests a window's ability to resist water leakage through the window frame, sashes, joints, weather-stripping, etc. No leakage is permitted under this test criteria.
   
Forced Entry is tested by a certified lab technician using many different tools to simulate breaking into a home through the window. Next, windows and doors are subjected to hundreds of pounds of force to try to lift or push them open while in the locked position.