Q. What is a replacement window?
A. A true replacement window is a window that’s custom built to fit within the opening of an existing window. It’s built to fit precisely and can be installed without disturbing the interior and exterior areas around the window.
Q. What are the advantages of custom replacement windows over pre-made, standard-size windows stocked at home centers and lumber yards?
A. Because custom windows are made to fit perfectly, they provide the best energy efficiency (which saves energy costs) and install much more easily and with very little mess. Also, because of the myriad of options available that affect appearance and efficiency, custom windows allow consumers to design exactly the windows they need or want. Standard windows typically cost less in the beginning, but other expenses and factors—like additional labor and the disruption to the home—far outweigh the original savings. For example, installing stock windows requires that you add brick or siding to the exterior, and drywall or other materials to the interior. In addition, custom-made windows allow you to choose the best solution to the problems you want to solve by replacing window
Q. Do replacement windows really pay for themselves or is that just a sales line?
A. It’s true, if you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows. Savings will vary, but expertly engineered and well-built windows lower home energy consumption. With vinyl-framed windows, maintenance is also virtually eliminated. No need to scrape and paint windows.These energy and maintenance savings will allow you to recoup your window investment over time.
Q. What causes condensation on windows?
A. Condensation, or “sweating,” is a natural occurrence on all windows and is caused by excess humidity, or invisible water vapor, present in the air. When this water vapor comes in contact with a surface which is at a cooler temperature, the vapor turns to visible droplets of moisture. Each window has many features built in to keep the temperature of the glass as warm as possible and thus reduce condensation. Our insulating glass units provide superior energy efficiency to reduce the potential for condensation. However, there is no such thing as a condensation-free window in high humidity conditions. Controlling the amount of moisture in your home is the most effective action you can take to avoid condensation. Here are a few tips on reducing the moist air in your home:
Q. What are R-values and U-values?
A. R-value is the resistance a material has to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance. U-value is the amount of heat transferred through a material. The lower the U-value, the slower the rate of heat flow and the better the insulating quality.
Q. What is Low E/Argon-filled glass, and how does it work?
A. Low E (Emissivity) Glass is glass with a transparent metallic oxide coating applied onto or into a glass surface. The coating allows short-wave energy to pass through, but reflects long-wave infrared energy which improves the U-Value. Argon Gas is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, non-toxic gas which is six times more dense than air. It is used to replace air between the glass panes to reduce temperature transfer.
Q. How are replacement windows any different from older windows in terms of cleaning?
A. Many high-quality windows are actually engineered to make cleaning easier. For example, double-hung windows with the latest internal constant force balance system allow a home owner to easily maneuver the sashes up and down. They tilt in—and lock securely in place—for safe, easy cleaning. Quite a difference from old wood windows that stick and are difficult to move up and down.
Q. Can I have a representative from Quality Window and Door contact me about my specific home improvement needs?
A. Yes! A reprehensive from Quality Window and Door would be happy to answer all of your questions and configure the most beneficial products for your specific application. Simply call us at 1-800-370-8751 or, fill out our information request form and we will contact you at your convenience.
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