Replacing your old windows will give you some benefits that go beyond appearance. Older houses with single paned windows lose a tremendous amount of cooling and heating energy right through the glass. You can detect this for yourself just by standing next to a window on a cold day. While heavy drapes and shutters can help, blocking out the winter sun can deprive you of Vitamin D and create a gloomy, dark interior that is both physically and emotionally unhealthy.

The money you will spend to replace your old windows will come back to you. The new double glazed vinyl windows on the market today will save energy both in terms of your heating and cooling bills and your own physical energy in keeping them clean. Today’s windows can be completely cleaned from the inside, making them safer and more convenient than the older styles. You will enjoy the clean shine both as you approach your house after a hard day of work and as you stand inside looking out through glass you almost have to touch to know it is there.

By far the most popular replacement windows are vinyl, primarily because they are easy to install, come in a variety of colors, and never need to be painted. However, you can also purchase wood, fiberglass or aluminum if you prefer. Regardless of the type of framing you select, a new window is an opportunity to get creative. Instead of the rectangular windows you may have had, be sure to check out the possibility of bow or bay windows, windows with side lights or with curved tops. In fact, you can purchase windows that are actually rectangular—to fit your opening, but that are designed such that they appear to be domed. You could also select glazing with frosted sections and many other designs that will give your home a whole new look.

How to shop for windows
With so many choices on the market, the hardest part of buying replacement windows is choosing the best type for your home. Unless you are handy with that sort of thing yourself, it would be worth your time—and even a few dollars out of your pocket—to have a professional window installer take a look at your home and tell you what type of windows would work best for your type of home and for your geographic area. There may also be building codes that must be observed which such a person would be aware of. Furthermore, an expert will be able to visualize and illustrate stunning possibilities that will make your home look like new. Even if you are capable of installing the windows yourself, a few minutes with a professional can help you avoid costly errors.

Once you know what kind of windows you need, have a couple companies visit your home and have them bring samples of their windows.  Experiment with the way they open and close, and ask questions about how to maintain them, about their energy ratings, and about their warranties.

During your investigation, don’t forget to check out the company themselves. Do they perform the installation on their own product or hire a third party to do the actual work? Who is actually responsible for repairs in the event of an installation error or material defect? Although the new windows are supposed to arrive in pristine condition with no defects and are supposed to be installed perfectly to avoid moisture leaks and other problems, they are built and installed by people. Mistakes and defects happen with even the best of companies. Although you don’t expect such problems, it’s to your benefit to know how to resolve such an issue if it does happen.

Request a free estimate.

May we also recommend
It’s a good idea to request certification information from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) for any window products you are interested in. This information will assist you in comparing the energy efficiency of the different styles and brands.

Aluminum. These days aluminum is primarily used in commercial applications and rarely for residential, except for items like basement doors. This is because the strength aluminum provides is not needed when
dealing with the typical size of a residential window. Aluminum will transfer heat, meaning it will get cold when heat retention is needed during the winter, and will transfer cold when you’re trying to maintain cool air during the summer months. In a commercial situation rigidity is needed for very large windows and aluminum must be used at the expense of energy efficiency.

Wood. Wood produces higher R-values, are unaffected by temperature extremes, and are less prone to condensation, but they require considerable maintenance in the form of periodic painting. If wood frames are not properly protected from moisture, they can warp, crack, and stick.

Vinyl. Vinyl windows are made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (pvc), which offers many advantages. They are available in a wide range of styles and shapes, have moderate to high R-values, are easily customized, are competitively priced, require low maintenance, and mold easily into almost any shape.

Fiberglass. Fiberglass is relatively new and not yet widely available. They have the highest R-values of all
frames; thus, they are excellent for insulating and will not warp, shrink, swell, rot, or corrode. Fiberglass frames can be made in a variety of colors and can hold large expanses of glass. Some fiberglass frames are hollow; others are filled with fiberglass insulation.

Fibrex. Fibrex material is a blend of wood fiber and specially formulated thermo-plastic polymer. This unique window material is made from reclaimed wood fiber from the Andersen Window Corporation’s 65 acre
manufacturing operation in Bayport, Minnesota. Fibrex combines excellent strength, insulation properties and provides low maintence.

For more information, click here.

* Condensation or frost buildup
* Drafts- If you can feel air coming in through a closed window, your windows need replacement
* Window needs Support to Stay open- If you use a book or wood to prop open your windows, you’re windows should be replaced
* Candles do not stay lit near a closed window- Although you may not feel the draft, this could be a sign that your weather stripping is gone.
* Appearance- If you are unhappy with the appearance of your windows or they show signs of deterioration, they should be replaced.

To get a free, expert opinion, click here and arrange a no-obligation assessment.

The Internal Revenue Service issued an advance notice this week outlining documentation requirements that window and door manufacturers must provide to homeowners looking to claim energy efficiency home improvement tax credits under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act.

According to the notice, an Energy Star label is no longer acceptable for exterior windows and skylights, as the IRS had allowed for products purchased prior to June 1.

Notice 2009-53, specifically, outlines how manufacturers will verify their eligible products, and provides guidance for taxpayers seeking to claim the credit. In short, the notice states the conditions under which taxpayers can “rely on a manufacturer’s certification.”

In the case of an exterior window, skylight or door (other than a storm window or storm door), the manufacturer’s certification must state that the exterior window, skylight, or door has a U factor and SHGC of 0.30 or below.

“A manufacturer that certifies to a taxpayer that a component is an eligible building envelope component or that property is qualified energy property must retain in its records documentation establishing that the component or property satisfies the applicable conditions,” the notice states.  “In the case of an exterior window, the manufacturer must retain a record of its National Fenestration Rating Council rating.”

The notice also states, “Taxpayers can no longer rely on an Energy Star label in claiming the § 25C credit for exterior windows and skylights placed in service after the enactment of the ARRTA. Similarly, an Energy Star label does not establish that a product is qualified energy property. The product must meet the definition of qualified energy property in § 25C.”

While Energy Star labels are no longer appropriate documentation, the announcement highlights the recent transition period in which Energy Star-rated products would qualify for the credit: “In the case of amounts paid or incurred before June 1, 2009, for property placed in service after February 17, 2009, taxpayers may rely on: … An Energy Star label for exterior windows and skylights, rather than on a manufacturer’s certification statement, in claiming the § 25C credit, if the window or skylight is installed in the region identified on the label.”

National Safety Council
1121 Spring Lake Drive
Itasca, IL 60143-3201

National Fenestration Rating Council

The National Fenestration Rating Council label was created to assist consumers in determining how a given window will perform. They offer a very straightforward and precise comparison, which details the manufacturing company, delineates the window’s features and provides other valuable information, including energy performance characteristics.

Key Rating Information to Consider:

* Air Leakage
* Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
* U-Factor
* Visible Transmittance

To learn more, please visit NFRC

The Energy Star Program

In 1992 the United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA) established the Energy Star program. Since its inception is has been embraced by many countries throughout the world! Their mission is to promote and identify electronic products that are energy efficient. The Energy Star Window Program is an important extension that is in keeping with their commitment.

This program has paved the way for valuable strides in window technology. The Energy Star Window Program and leading window manufacturers have worked together to provide consumers with windows that are energy efficient. Today’s windows are available in styles that offer versatility and convenience. The additional bonus is that these windows do not just benefit our environment - check out the new balance in your bank account!

(Click here to request prices)

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.

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

Common Types of Windows

Single-Hung/Double Hung

- 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

- 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

- Similar to casement windows, but hinges at top
- Also open outward and lower leakage rates

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

- Similar to bay window, more actual windows
- Radiate out to form semi-circle

Fixed Frame

- Used mainly for adding exterior light to rooms
- Does not open or move
- Provides no ventilation

Skylight

- Installed in ceiling
- Parallel to roof
- Some models can open and provide ventilation
- Brings in more sunlight than a traditional wall window<

Slider

- 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.

Before getting down to the positive affect improved windows can have on the environment, let’s take a look at the big picture. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, evidence shows the 20th century as the warmest in the last 1,000 years with the most rapid warming occurring over the past 20 years. The 1990s was the warmest decade and 1998 the single warmest year of the past millennium. The biggest cause of global warming is the carbon dioxide released when fossil fuels like oil and coal are burned for energy. If greenhouse gases—such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane and nitrous oxide—continue to increase, says the EPA, the average temperature at Earth’s surface could rise between 2.5°F to 10.4°F above 1990 levels by the end of the 21st century. Such seemingly modest increases as these are predicted to have significant consequences on the environment.

Pundits and politicians may differ about specific approaches to curb global warming, but more and more people are embracing the need to address the environment and looking at how our lifestyles affect it. In February 2007, MarketResearch.com reported that 36 million consumers—12 percent of the U.S. population—embrace the green market, in which $230 billion is spent on what are considered sustainable products and services.

So what does this mean to the window industry? It means there is a real and growing desire among consumers for environmentally friendly building products. Once thought of as simply a high-priced luxury with a price tag that outweighed any immediate cost savings benefits, sustainable building products, including windows, are now being sought out and purchased by increasing numbers of consumers acting on their environmental principles.

THE MESSAGE
The green movement is affording us in the window business with a real opportunity to appeal to customers looking for window solutions that not only meet their needs today but also deliver hope for tomorrow. Here are just a few of the things we have to tell them:
Windows can account for between 10 and 25 percent of the total energy consumption for the heating and cooling of an average home (consisting of 2,000 square feet of living space and 300 square feet of windows). Installing the most energy-efficient window available can greatly reduce energy consumption, the carbon footprint of the home (eco-language for the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the combustion of fossil fuels required to produce the energy to heat and cool a structure) and the amount of money required to keep the home comfortable.

Recent improvements in nearly all window components, including low-E glass, warm edge spacers and more efficient insulating frames, can improve window thermal performance by as much as 45 percent. As manufacturers adopt more high-performance glazing techniques, warm edge window spacers become even more important in reducing overall U-factors and decreasing energy loss and potential condensation with its related health risks.

Beyond the actual thermal performance of the window itself, environmentally friendly windows can help reduce a home’s peak heating and cooling loads. Peak loads are the maximum energy loads required for heating or cooling a house within a specific time period. Insulating glass windows reduce the house’s heating and cooling needs by performing more efficiently and achieving more consistent internal temperatures despite wide variations in outside temperatures. Not only do these windows reduce the energy draw at the home, they also help reduce the demand required by the electrical utility at peak times. Given the amount of brownouts and blackouts of the last few years, the ability to help lessen utility demand can be a persuasive selling point for green consumers.

While environmental activists continue to debate with their opponents about the reality or lack thereof of global warming, the middle ground is rapidly growing as awareness of the environment in general takes a greater role in these individuals’ lives. According to the research firm Iconoculture, mainstream “greenies” not only expect innovative new products that slip right into their existing lifestyles, but they also expect more convenience, better price points, higher style and better performance from green products.

Recognizing these demands, and the growing concern among our end customers about the planet and in what condition they leave it for their children and their children’s children, we have a chance to show how, indeed, today’s high-performance windows can truly help save the world.

Ric Jackson is director of marketing & business development for Truseal Technologies Inc.