FAQ

Are my windows in need of replacement?

Most homeowners with windows 25 years old or more should consider replacing them completely to gain the best energy efficiency throughout their home. The most common signs of windows in need of replacement are: windows are hard to open or close, excessive fogging or ice inside the window panes, and drafts or air leaks coming in through or around the window frames.

Will new windows really lower my home’s energy consumption costs?

Yes, you will see instant cost savings by replacing your old windows with our high-quality vinyl energy efficient ones. They are nearly maintenance-free because the vinyl will never warp or discolor, and there will never be the need for paint re-finishing. With these energy and maintenance savings, over the years your window investment will have paid for itself.

Will my new energy-efficient windows eliminate glass condensation entirely?

The answer is no. However, energy-efficient windows with double-glazed glass will help reduce condensation because they keep window temperatures warmer, thereby minimizing any hot and cold differences that convert moisture into condensation.

The best way to reduce condensation is to maintain lower levels of humidity inside your home, especially during the winter months. Some common steps to control condensation include: shutting off your furnace humidifier and other humidifying devices, opening up your fireplace damper to allow easier escape for moisture, drawing your drapes and blinds to allow warm house air to circulate against the windows, and airing out your house a few minutes each day.

Will my new windows keep out the sun’s UV rays that fade-out hardwood floors and furniture?

By using Low-E (low-emissivity) glass in your new windows, this will filter out more than 50% of the damaging ultraviolet light. However, the most effective glass for this purpose is laminated insulating glass featuring a PVB (polyvinyl butyral) inner layer and a Low-E coating that filters out over 99% of the sun’s UV radiation.

What is Low-E glass?

Low-E or “low-emissivity” glass is a microscopic non-visible layer of coating added to clear glass that increases the energy efficiency of the entire thermal glass unit or window. The Low-E layer works by reflecting light passing through the glass, thereby reducing the window’s U-Value and increasing its R-Value. The U-Value represents the amount of heat that escapes through, so the lower the U-Value the more energy efficient the window. The R-Value normally depends on the number of layers of glass that is used, the kind of gas in between those layers and whether or not the insulated glass has been treated with Low-E coating.

What tax incentives are offered for installing energy-efficient windows?

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2010 offers homeowners who install qualifying energy-efficient replacement windows a tax credit up to 10% of the total cost of the windows, up to $200.00 max. All of our windows and patio doors qualify for the tax credit only with an upgrade to Low-E glass with Argon Gas.

What is Argon Gas?

Argon gas is an inert, nontoxic gas used in insulating glass units to reduce heat transfer. In a sealed glass insulating unit, air currents carry heat to the top and settle into cold pools at the bottom. The less conductive and slow-moving Argon Gas helps minimize these air currents within the space. In the end the overall transfer of heat between the inside and outside is significantly reduced.

Is weather-stripping important with my newly replaced windows?

Weather stripping your new energy-efficient windows is a very important part of installation, because it provides a tight barrier against air and moisture. High quality weather-stripping that is properly installed will greatly improve the insulating performance of your new windows.

Vinyl vs. other materials… what’s the difference?

Vinyl resists the effects of harsh climates, industrial pollutants and corrosive salt in the air in ways that wood and metal simply cannot. Vinyl never flakes, peels, rots, blisters, swells or corrodes. So the vinyl windows you install today will look great for many years to come. Vinyl windows require no maintenance. Their inherent advantages and impressive appearance last without any extra attention on your part. And they never need painting, keeping a bright and fresh look naturally throughout their long-lasting lifetime.