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Frequently
Asked Questions
1. What are the different types or styles of windows?
Bays and Bows
Casement and Awnings
Vertical Hung Windows available in:
Single-Hung and Double-Hung styles
Horizontal Sliding Windows available in:
Single, Double and Triple Lite styles
Picture Windows
Geometric or Special Shaped Windows
Architectural/Historic Windows
2. Will vinyl turn yellow or fade?
No. Vinyl products contain 10 parts titanium dioxide, which prevents ultraviolet degradation. As is similar with siding, everything fades some over time. Our PVC products will not fade, over the life of the product, to the point in which there is a visible difference between pieces. Lighter colors do better against fading and all the colors we carry tend to be on the light side.
3. I have old wood windows, what are the advantages of going with vinyl windows?
Vinyl will not deteriorate or rot and can basically be shaped into any design. Vinyl will not rust and serves as a great insulator for special windows designs. All joints are sealed air tight.
4. Are there windows that can provide better security in case of an intruder?
Our Power Two series with optional View-Safe Tempered Glass offers safety, protection and have four times the strength of ordinary glass. They are virtually impossible to cut with a glass cutter. There are also new advances in special laminated glass. This glass can take up to 30 powerful hits of a baseball bat before even a small hole is formed.
5. Can windows protect inside items from UV radiation and fading?
Your carpeting, furniture, drapes, etc can be protected using a low-emmisivity glass. This should help with more than 50 percent of the damaging UV light. If you want maximum protection go with laminated insulating, which can filter more than 99 percent of UV radiation.
6. How important is weatherstripping?
Without it there would be no barrier between air and water in doors and windows. The stripping makes the window seal air tight, and based on what type of stripping you install, you can greatly improve insulating performance of your windows.
7. What is argon or krypton gas?
Moving air carries energy. The secret to insulating is to get air as still as possible. Argon and Krypton are heavier than air. These gasses are in the air we breathe and are completely harmless. Their purpose between window panes is to prevent hot or cold conditions from moving the air. Less air movement, better energy efficiency.
8. Can woodgrain vinyls look like real wood types?
They can come very close. Vinyl technologies have come along way, quality woodgrain vinyl laminates are very attractive and often match the color of the wood trim in homes, plus you don't have to stain or seal them!
9. Why is one window stronger than another?
The profile design and methods of assembly determine the strength of a window. Just as beams or roof trusses are designed for specific mechanical loads, so are window shapes.
The strengh of the sash and frame dictate how the window will maintain its shape under high winds. A weak window can flex and reduce the effectiveness of the weatherstripping, resulting in air and water infiltration and, subsequently, higher energy costs. A weak window design also requires near-perfect window installation to ensure an effective seal.
10. What is an R-value or a U-value?
The R-value or R-factor of a window is the measure of its resistance to the transfer of heat flow. The higher its R-value, the greater its insulating ability.
The U-value is actually the important variable in evaluating windows. The U-value or U-factor is the measure of the window's ability to conduct heat. This is the amount of heat transmitted through the window. The lower a window's U-value, the better the window is at insulating your home.
11. What is ENERGY STAR?
Energy Star is a US governmental program - administered by the department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency with the cooperation of manufacturers. This alliance has been designed to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels through the education of consumers. The program covers many different types of products. Windows and doors can only carry the Energy Star label if they are tested by an independent laboratory through the National Fenestration Rating Council program and meet specific, predetermind U-value ratings. By selecting Energy Star products, you will reduce your energy costs and help make the environment cleaner.
12. I have heard the term Low-E, what is it?
Low-E stands for low emissitivity. It's a microscopic, metallic coating applied to a surface of glass, that reflects and re-radiates heat energy into or out of a home depending on climate conditions.
13. Should I choose a licensed contractor?
Absolutely. However not all licensed contractors are the same. Be weary of contractors that have specialty licenses rather than a builder's license. The higher grade licensed contractors have more experience in the building trades and usually can insure a higher quality job.
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