What is Vinyl?

Choosing the Right Contractor

Windows 101

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What is Vinyl?

April 22, 2009

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Vinyl is polyvinyl chloride and a type of plastic. Very durable and strong, over half of all the PVC manufactured worldwide is used in construction. It is cheap, produced easily and lightweight. Wood, clay and concrete have all in recent years begun to be replaced by PVC.

PVC in its individual form is rigid and stiff. It does not gain flexibility until plasticizers are added to it, the most common of which is phthalates. PVC is a common plastic with many, many applications: vinyl siding, window frames, records (hence, vinyl records), plumbing, clothing and upholstery to name a few.
PVC Development

PVC was first discovered in the 19 th century on two separate occasions. In 1838 Henri Victor Regnault and in 1872 Eugen Baumann found a white solid floating in flasks of vinyl chloride that had been left in the sun. However, it was not until the early 20 th century that public development of polyvinyl chloride began. Russian chemist Ivan Ostromislensky, in a partnership with Fritz Klatte, a German (both of the German chemical company Griesheim-Elektron) began the application of PVC to commercial products. Finally, in 1926, Waldo Semon of B.F. Goodrich came up with a process of giving PVC more flexibility with various additives. This plasticized PVC proved financially successful and became the precursor of the polyvinyl chloride used today.
Properties of PVC

Some health concerns go along with PVC. If used properly, there is no known threat from the substance. However, the additives and softeners utilized in making the material more flexible can be harmful. Thought not directly poisonous, it is possible that chemicals could leech out of vinyl products.

The resin identification code, which shows what type of plastic a product is made out of, is 3.

To produce PVC, vinyl chloride must be present first as a solution in water. It is then put into a high pressure chamber whose temperature is 50-70 degrees Celsius. The water is present to remove and absorb heat. PVC will eventually form in increasingly larger pieces until the process is topped. It is then removed from the water, dried and forms a white powder. This is now PVC and can be melted and shaped for nearly any purpose.
PVC Safety

PVC is synthetic and must be disposed of properly. Recycling is one way in which this can be done. PVC can either be melted down and then reshaped or mechanically crushed and used in its most basic form, be it as artificial filler for pillows and bedding or packing material. PVC is also able to be incinerated. It produces no more toxins then burning wood, but when it is destroyed in this manner pollution control equipment is used. PVC, when put into a controlled landfill proposes no serious threat to the environment.
Points of Interest

When replacing your windows you can achieve even greater energy saving by having vinyl siding installed on your home.

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

Choosing the Right Contractor

April 3, 2009

As you begin your search for the right contractor, it is important that you know how to choose the right one. When making your final decision it is in your best interest to review the tips below.

Insurance- Home Owner’s Insurance; make sure that your home owners insurance is adequate. Some policies may need to be altered for home improvements.

Contractor’s Insurance- Always make sure that the contractor you choose has Worker’s Compensation and Liability Insurance. A homeowner may be held responsible for accidents that occur on site if the contractor does not have enough insurance.

Experience- Make sure that your contractor is experienced in the job you are looking to have done. An experienced contractor does not necessarily mean he is experience in replacement windows.

References- An good contractor should have references available. You may also want to consider checking with the Better Business Bureau or your local Contractors Associations.

Accurate Pricing- An estimate is different from a contract. Be sure you know in detail the exact pricing of the job before work begins so later down the road you will not be surprised by the cost of the job.

No Such Thing as a Silly Question- Fire away at will any questions you may have for your contractor. It is better to find out now than later.

Communication- Make sure that your contractor understands exactly what you want done.

Homeowner’s Rights- All contractors, according to the Federal Law must let you know in writing that you may notify them in writing if you are going to cancel the job within 3 business days of the contract date.

Payments and Financing- Your contractor may provide you with payment and financial options. You also have the option to seek other plans that may be more suitable for you.

Written Contract- All contractors should provide you with a contract in writing which details all the work you expect them to perform. This should include any work that you expect after the job is completed such as trash removal and area clean up.

How can I get more information?

Request our Free No Obligation Quote

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

Windows 101

April 3, 2009

Ready to replace your worn out windows?  Learn some basic terminology to make the process less stressful and become a confident consumer.  Here are some basic facts about windows:

1. Head
The top part of the window frame, going across from one side to another.
2. Jamb
The vertical portions of the window frame that make up its sides.
3. Frame
The entire window’s outside edges, or the head, jambs and sill combined.
4. Glazing
Any glass within the entire construct of the window.
5. Pane
A single piece of glass separated by pieces of the window itself.
6. Sash
Stiles and rails, which surround each pane, combine to form a single sash.
7. Sill
This is the lower equivalent of the head, and protrudes from the wall slightly.
8. Muntin Bar
A muntin bar creates a boundary between individual window panes.

Diagram of window

Common Types of Windows

Single-Hung/Double Hung
Double-hung window- Sashes slide vertically
- In single-hung units, the bottom sash is the only sash that moves.
- Ventilation regulated by widening vertical crack with bottom sash
- Screens possible on exterior / interior.
Casement
Casement window- Hinges are located on one side
- Low air leakage rates (tighter seal than sliding windows)
- Better ventilation (larger area open to outside)
- Can catch passing breezes (window protrudes outside into wind)
- Screens installed on interior
Awning
Awning window- Similar to casement windows, but hinges at top
- Also open outward and lower leakage rates
Bay Window
Bay window- Combination of three-plus windows
- Center made of one or more windows parallel with wall
- Outer windows angled back towards wall
Bow Window
Bow window- Similar to bay window, more actual windows
- Radiate out to form semi-circle
Fixed Frame
Fixed frame window- Used mainly for adding exterior light to rooms
- Does not open or move
- Provides no ventilation
Skylight
Skylight window- Installed in ceiling
- Parallel to roof
- Some models can open and provide ventilation
- Brings in more sunlight than a traditional wall window<
Slider
Slider window- Similar to single/double hung windows, but turned on their side
- Either one or both sashes will be able to move and slide
- Provides ventilation as opening is widened by sashes.

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

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