What causes condensation on windows?

Premier Window Store expands to Columbia

Year-round Comfort with Solarban® 60 Solar Control Low-E Glass

Glossary of terms-Windows

What is Fenestration?

The right choice for the ultimate coastal protection, period!

Consumer Reports says “Look for AWDI Certification”

Why Low-e/Argon?

Use AWDI Installers

Premier Window shows at Charlotte Home Show

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What causes condensation on windows?

October 23, 2008

What causes condensation on windows?
Whenever there is excess humidity in a home, it manifests itself in the form of condensation on the coldest area of a wall, which is normally the windows. The warmer the air, the more moisture it will retain, so when air in your home comes in contact with the colder glass surface, it is subsequently cooled and moisture is released in the form of condensation on the glass.

Do windows cause condensation?
No, condensation on windows is not the fault of the window. However, by replacing drafty windows and doors or installing a new roof or siding, you are reducing air flow in your home and making it tighter. Tighter homes actually retain more humidity.

Where on a window does condensation normally form and why?
Condensation often forms at the meeting rail and at the bottom of the lower sash on the interior of the glass. This is because when warm air cools, it falls down across the interior surface of the window at the same time the air’s temperature is falling. The air contacts the horizontal surface of the meeting rail, which acts like a dam, slowing the air’s rate of fall and creating the perfect opportunity for the trapped water vapor to escape and form on the meeting rail’s surface. The air then rolls over the edge of the meeting rail and again gains speed until it encounters the lower handle of the sash. At this point, the water vapor again makes its exit and lies at the bottom of the sash.

Can I reduce the condensation on my windows?
Yes. In order to reduce condensation, humidity must be controlled and air movement must be generated. As the exterior temperature drops, the humidity level needs to decrease if condensation is to be controlled.

What steps can I take to reduce humidity in my home?
The two main things you can do are to control sources of moisture and increase ventilation. To decrease or control excess humidity and condensation:
* Use exhaust fans in your kitchen, laundry and bathrooms.
* Vent gas burners, clothes dryers, etc. to the outdoors.
* Shut off furnace humidifiers and other humidifying devices in your home.
* Be sure that the ventilating louvers in your attic, basement or crawl spaces are open and amply sized.
* Open fireplace dampers to allow an escape route for moisture-laden air.
* Air out your house a few minutes each day.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cheasapeake, Cleveland, Installations, Mobile, Raleigh, Windows, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

Premier Window Store expands to Columbia

October 17, 2008

Premier Window Inc. announces that its Charlotte, NC store has expanded services south to include Columbia, SC.  Premier of Charlotte has tested advertising and sales in the Columbia market and determined its products, services and prices are well received.  The map shows the new coverage area for the Charlotte store.  Plans are underway to open a new store location in the Columbia metro area.    Premier has sold windows and doors in Charlotte for over twelve years and has expanded offerings to include siding and gutters.  Aggressive pricing and strong customer service has made Premier an excellent option for homeowners looking for quality, energy-efficiency and price.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Installations, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment 

Year-round Comfort with Solarban® 60 Solar Control Low-E Glass

October 17, 2008

Solarban 60 glass is the ideal energy efficient window solution for climates in which you want to:

* Block direct solar heat year-round.
* Reduce solar heat gain where air conditioning costs are significant.
* Reduce fading and degradation of a home’s carpets, curtains, and furniture from UV rays.
* Provide improved comfort in the winter.

The low-e coating on Solarban 60 glass is applied by the magnetic sputtered vacuum deposition process to ensure superior thermal performance. It is the first PPG glass to offer solar control along with the insulating performance and aesthetic benefits of low-emissivity glass (low-e glass).

Solarban 60 Low-E Glass Performance Properties

Standard Insulating Glass Unit with clear glass, conventional aluminum spacer, and air fill.     Solarban® 60 Insulating Glass unit with Solarban® Solar Control Low-E glass, Intercept® spacer, and argon gas fill.
Solarban® 60 glass keeps you warmer in the winter

The overall U-Value (insulating value) of windows with Solarban® Low-E glass is about 39% better than standard clear insulating glass. (Lower U-values mean higher insulating performance.)

Winter Furnace Heat                                
Window U-Value(clear glass)=0.46     Window U-Value(Solarban 60)=0.28

Solarban® 60 glass keeps you cooler in the summer

Solarban® Low-E glass transmits about 48% less solar energy than standard clear insulating glass.* Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a measure of how much solar heat is transmitted through the glass. (Lower numbers mean less summer heat.)

Summer Solar Heat
SHGC=0.75     SHGC=0.39

Solarban® 60 glass reduces U.V. Energy and allows visible light transmittance

Solarban® Low-E glass is about 72% more effective at reducing fabric-fading ultraviolet (U.V.) energy, yet still allows about 88% as much visible light in as standard clear insulating glass.*

Transmittances (without/with Solarban 60)
Ultraviolet Energy=58%
Visible Light=81%

Ultraviolet Energy=16%
Visible Light=71%
*Comparisons are based on center of glass measurements of 3/4″ insulating glass units; two 1/8″ (3mm) glass panes and a 1/2″ (12mm) air space. Actual glass performance may differ silghtly due to glass thickness, gas fill, and glass to frame ratio.

Solarban 60 Low-E Glass Features and Benefits

Solarban 60 Solar Control Low-E Glass Features

  • Improves window U-value as compared to uncoated glass.
  • Allows the inner pane to stay warmer in winter.
  • Reduces room side condensation of the window.
  • Reduces the transmission of ultraviolet light.
  • Has a natural appearance, both when viewed from the outside and inside.
  • Carries a 10-year warranty against coating failure. PPG has sold more than 100 million sq. ft. of low-e glasses since 1984 without a single documented coating failure.
  • Created by PPG, a leader in flat glass manufacturing with extensive quality assurance and technical services groups and one of the world’s largest glass research and development centers.

Solarban 60 Solar Control Low-E Glass Benefits

  • Customers save on both heating and cooling costs with energy efficient windows.
  • Comfort is enhanced by reducing drafts around windows and allowing higher room humidity without condensation
  • Builder callbacks and potential window deterioration due to excessive condensation are reduced.
  • Fading of interior furnishings, such as carpets, drapes, and furniture may be reduced.
  • The exterior of the home maintains a pleasing appearance and interior colors remain true.
  • Customers can be assured that the glass in their windows is backed by the strength and experience of a leader in the glass industry and a Fortune 300 company.
  • PPG customers enjoy outstanding technical support and access to the most advanced products in the window and door industry.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cleveland, Energy, Jefferson, Mobile, Raleigh, Windows, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

Glossary of terms-Windows

October 17, 2008

As you do research for your replacement window purchase, you’ll hear and learn a number of terms related to features and function of the window product.  Here are a few of those terms:

Argon Gas- This odorless, colorless gas is inserted between panes of glass for insulation and also increases a window’s energy efficiency by reducing conductive heat transfer.

Awning Window- This style of window swings out from the bottom and away from a building, just like an awning.

Bay Window- A three-unit window with a center piece flanked by two side panels that are usually angled at 30 or 45 degrees.

Bow Window- A combination of windows composed of four or more units, which are aligned in a smooth curving contour.

Casement Window- A window that swings open from the side, hinging at the top and bottom of the frame. Nailing Fin (Flange)- A strip of sheet material either integral or fastened to a unit’s frame, creating a flange. This is a common method to install new construction windows and doors.

Double Hung Window- Consists of top and bottom vertically sliding sashes in a single frame.

Picture Window- A large, fixed or stationary window designed to provide a maximum viewing area without obstructions.

Emissivity- The relative ability of a surface to radiate heat. R Value- Measure of a window’s overall resistance to heat transmission from different air temperatures on either side of the glass.

Frame- The outer components of a window or door unit, consisting of a head jamb, side jambs, blind stops and window sills, as applies. Sash- A wood/vinyl perimeter to support the glass of a window, holding it separately from the frame and allowing some independent movement from the frame.

Fusion Welded- A process of melting two or more items together (i.e., a window sash and frame) via welding. Single Hung Window- A window system with only one glass unit movable in the window pane.

Geometric Window- Specialty windows customized to fit a variety of shapes, such as starburst, gothic, colonial, etc. within a door pattern.

Glazing- 1) Act of fitting a window or door frame with glass. 2) Installing glass into a window or door frame. Slider Window- A window that opens horizontally.

Glazing Bead- A long, thin piece of moulded wood used to secure glass to the sash or frame of a window; silicone is often used to create a seal between the glass and wooden glazing bead.

Hermetically Sealed- An airtight seal.

Insulating Glass- Comprised of two or more pieces of glazing (glass) separated by hermetically sealed airspace for improved thermal efficiency.

Kickplate- Applied to one or both sides of a door’s bottom rail, this thin, polished metal plate is used to prevent denting and soiling of the wood surface.

Laminating- Method of bonding two or more layers of glass together using heat and pressure, with inner layers of transparent plastic. This process provides one of the best avenues to blocking ultraviolet rays.

Low E Glass- Windows that have been coated with a transparent, metallic layer to the glass surface, reducing its emissivity or ability to radiate heat.

Mulled- To join two windows or doors together, side by side.

NCTL Validated- National Certified Testing Labs (NCTL) is an organization that performs standardized tests on windows to ensure proper quality control levels.

NFRC Rating- The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit group comprised of manufacturers, builders, designers, government officials, utilities and consumers working together to provide unbiased energy performance ratings for windows, doors and skylights (fenestrations).

Tempered Glass- Plate glass with increased strength due to a special heat-treatment for greater strength as a safety glass.

Thermal Performance- A window’s ability to act as a barrier to the transfer of heat.

Thermo-Edge Spacer- A system where protected insulated glass creates increased temperatures along the window’s edges and therefore reduces the potential for condensation on the glass surface.

Transom- An operating window unit for specific use above a door or window.

Weatherstripping- Material used to provide a weather-tight seal between a window/door sash or frame.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cleveland, Energy, Installations, Jefferson, Mobile, Raleigh, Windows, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

What is Fenestration?

October 17, 2008

What is Fenestration?

Fenestration: Any opening in a building’s envelope including windows, doors and skylights.

Windows, doors, skylights and curtain wall manufacturers are constantly improving and re-designing their products to meet the needs of their customers.

How do customers know the benefits they can get from new technology?

By looking for the NFRC label or Label Certificate and understanding what NFRC ratings mean.

There are a number of resources available to assist you in this area

* Information on the NFRC Label basic explanation of the NFRC label and rating system
* NFRC Fact Sheets explain the various issues involved in comparing energy related fenestration performance - from U-factor to Daylighting; from Condensation Resistance to Solar Heat Gain.


Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cleveland, Doors, Energy, Installations, Jefferson, Mobile, Raleigh, Windows, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

The right choice for the ultimate coastal protection, period!

October 8, 2008

Premier Window understands that residents of coastal areas want the best impact protection available against strong storms and high winds. That’s why StormBreaker Plus® windows and patio doors are designed to be extremely strong. Plus, they’re constructed of premium vinyl to achieve excellent thermal efficiency. And they provide years of beauty with almost no maintenance.

Strong
StormBreaker Plus® vinyl windows and doors lead the way in proven impact performance. Their durability starts with double-strength glass that’s laminated so it is able to withstand high winds and flying debris without the need for plywood or shutters. Profiles made of remarkably sturdy premium vinyl are then reinforced with steel. The result is a line of impact-resistant windows and doors so impressive they can even survive stringent building codes.

Efficient
StormBreaker Plus® vinyl windows and doors are different. Their premium vinyl is inherently an excellent insulator. Unlike other materials, such as aluminum, which conduct energy easily, vinyl does not. When combined with a double-strength, laminated insulating glass unit, our vinyl windows and doors are truly superior in helping a home retain cooled air, regardless of outside temperatures. In fact, StormBreaker Plus® products are so thermally efficient, they can be ordered to meet ENERGY STAR® guidelines—even in harsh climates

simontoncoastal

Beautiful
StormBreaker Plus® windows are available in a variety of styles, along with coordinating Patio and Garden Doors. All products are available with an assortment of glass and grid options typically associated with traditional windows. Their attractive vinyl profiles are designed to complement virtually every architectural style, with classic lines and a rich appearance that reveal little of their formidable strength. And their beauty will not fade, even in harsh conditions. Unlike aluminum, premium vinyl will never pit, peel or flake. Best of all, they require virtually no maintenance.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Jefferson, Mobile | Leave a Comment 

Consumer Reports says “Look for AWDI Certification”

October 7, 2008

Consumer reports magazine, in their October, 2007 issue, reviewed  replacement window installations as a consumer issue.  As part of the review they endorsed the American Window and Door Institute (AWDI) as a legitimate governing body over the window installation business.

As consumers continue to look for ways to enhance the appearance and value of their homes, plus capture the valuable energy savings associated with energy-efficient window and door products, proper installation is key to a properly completed project.

Replacement Window companies that are consumer-focused and concerned that you get the best possible product have undergone the training and certification processes outlined by ADWI.  Premier Window, Inc installers are AWDI certified, thereby providing you “peace of mind guaratee.  Call your local Premier Window store for a free project consultation.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cleveland, Jefferson, Mobile, Raleigh, Uncategorized, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

Why Low-e/Argon?

October 7, 2008

Today, more than ever, the environment is a major concern. With the effects of global warming almost universally recognised, and the problems with climate change becoming gradually more apparent, the time to act is most certainly now. Add to that the weight of increasing energy bills, and you have got yourself a real incentive to save energy and the world in which we live.

By making simple decisions around the home, we can increase our insulating properties and require less energy to heat our homes, which can help the earth and our wallets. One such way is through installing low E argon windows. In this article, we will look at the benefits of low E windows, and why they should be a realistic consideration for anyone looking to update their household windows.

What does Low E Argon Mean

Regular windows lose heat through four recognisable processes; namely convection, conduction, radiation and leakages. Convection is where warmer air is cooled by exterior air and as a result moves in a downwards direction, thus creating a draft. Conduction is the loss of heat directly through the window.

Air leakage is the physical gaps within the window and its frame, which is another means by which heat is lost. Finally, radiation is the loss of heat in the form of infrared energies through the window. This process is obviously inefficient and costly, in terms of the wasted energy.

What is more, this means that we aren’t getting the most from the energy we are producing, which means we need more energy, which is subsequently more harmful to our environment. However, low E argon windows can change all that.

Low E argon windows work primarily by reflecting heat which would otherwise be wasted back into the room in question. Because it contains argon, the window is significantly better at reflecting heat rather than conducting heat, and consequently keeps the heat in, and keeps the unwanted heat out. This results in a massive energy saving, which is reflected in the first instance when the bill arrives at the end of the month.

Why Low E Argon

Low E argon windows should be a very important factor when it comes to replacing windows. One thing you may notice in the first instance is that low e argon windows are more expensive. This is due to the more technologically advanced manufacturing process, which is also more labour intensive.

Having said that, it is estimated that the average household could save $240 every single year through installing low E argon windows – a massive saving over its lifetime. By making the initial investment, the windows will generate a tangible saving, year on year, whilst also going a long way towards saving our planet.

Low E argon windows are becoming increasingly popular and it is easy to see why. With society’s greener conscience, and a determination to cut down on energy bills, there has never been a better time to install low E argon windows in your home.

With that minimal initial investment, you can rest, safe in the knowledge that you are increasing your energy efficiency and doing your bit to protect our volatile environment in these crucial environmental times. Alongside household recycling, maximising energy efficiency is one of the easiest tangible things you can do, and with such an enormous saving, it is hard to justify not make the transition.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Cleveland, Energy, Jefferson, Mobile, Raleigh, Windows, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

Use AWDI Installers

October 7, 2008

When you purchase replacement windows you have a lot of choices.  You can buy directly from the home center store and install them yourself.  You can have the local handyman handle the work.  Or the guy working from the back of his truck.

But the installation of your window investment is as important as the decision of which style and color you bought.  That’s why it’s important to make sure your installer is trained and qualified.  The American Window and Door Institute is an instructional and governing body for the window and door installation process.  AWDI certification of your window and door installer provides you security and confidence that your windows and doors have been installed correctly.

As you shop for new window and door products, be sure to shop for the correct installation to make you project successful.  Premier Window installers have been trained and are AWDI certified.  Call your local Premier office today to get a free in-home estimate.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Installations, Winston-Salem | Leave a Comment 

Premier Window shows at Charlotte Home Show

October 1, 2008

Charlotte, NC.  October 1, 2008.  Premier Window will present it’s window and siding products at the upcoming American Consumer Show being held at the Metrolina Expo Center in Charlotte, NC.

The ACS Home Show is an event designed for homeowners in all stages of remodeling, landscaping and decorating their homes. Each event includes hundreds of exhibits with merchandise, sample interior and exterior vignettes, and product demonstrations. With a combination of new products and expert advice from the pros, the Home Show inspires homeowners with countless ideas on enhancing their home’s comfort and functionality, as well as its aesthetic appeal and overall value.

The ACS home show will be held October 10-12.

Posted by tmadej | Filed Under Charlotte, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment 

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