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Not every window is created equal.
1. We help you understand the information that’s out there.
2. Determine your short term and long term needs and wants.
3. Work with you to find the product that is going to offer solutions and give you the most value for your money.
4. Custom build a quality window that is built around your specifications.
As you start weeding out companies in your search for that ideal window, some things you should compare are frame and sash construction, thermal performance, available options, and warranty length and coverage.
Premium Vinyl Windows
There are a lot of vinyl windows to choose from today. Some companies strive the meet the minimum requirements while others strive to exceed them. We don’t believe a company only meeting the minimum requirements will be around long enough to get better. That’s why we only install premium vinyl windows that are made to the highest standards and backed by companies with a proven track record.
There are many benefits to vinyl windows as well as many different options today that weren’t available in the past:
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Cost. Significantly less than wood or fiberglass alternatives.
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Colors . Variety of colors available today. Reds, greens, browns and even black.
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Wood grains interiors using laminates prefinished in a variety of colors.
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Custom sizes. Most replacement windows can be made within 1/8” of the sized requested.
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High performance glass. Triple pane options that increase energy efficiency while decreasing outside noise.
Premium Wood Windows
For natural beauty, nothing compares to a quality wood window. With its sleek lines and warm appearance, wood windows can add a dramatic change to any homes appearance.
Some advantages to wood windows include:
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Energy efficiency. Wood is a natural insulator. It aids in stopping heat transfer and in blocking out unwanted sound.
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Warm Interiors. You can have the beauty of oak, cherry or pine and the option to choose between paints and stains.
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Low Maintenance. Most wood windows come with the option for aluminum or vinyl exteriors. This covering protects the exterior from outside elements and comes in a variety of colors. Just remember, this is still a wood window. Improper flashing and installation will lead to rot and failure.
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Strength. Woods natural strength allows the manufacturer to have more options in designing a window where overall size and weight are a concern.
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Slim frames. Because of its strength, wood frames and sashes are typically narrower, allowing for more visible glass.
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Custom sizes. More and more wood windows are entering the remodeling market. While custom sizes are available, they typically have more limitations than vinyl due to the higher cost in making them. Keep in mind; this is not to say that all remodeling projects require custom sized windows. This will depend on the existing windows, the homes exterior and the scope of the project.
This is a NFRC window label.
How to read the labels.
Understanding window ratings. U-Factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping a home or building. The lower the U-Factor, the better a product is at keeping heat in. Particularly important during the winter. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures how well a product blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the better a product is at blocking unwanted heat gain. Particularly important during the summer. Visible Transmittance measures how much light comes through a product. The higher the number, the higher the potential for brighter light. Air Leakage measures how much outside air comes into a home through a product. The lower the number, the better the product is at keeping air out. This is an optional rating and some Condensation Resistance manufacturers choose not to report it. measures how well a product resists the formation of condensation. The higher the number the better. Another optional rating some manufacturers choose not to report.
FAQ
Q. Where Can I find performance ratings for a window or door?
A. Look on the manufacturers website. Most will have a link to this data. Be skeptical of the one’s that don’t or only have limited information.
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Q. Does the space between the glass make a difference?
A. Yes. Since the air between the glass becomes trapped when the window is sealed, it becomes an insulator. The wider the space or the number of spaces a window has will add to its energy efficiency. If the seal were to fail, air would move freely and have the opposite effect on performance. It is important to choose a window not prone to seal failure. Look for terms such as “low conductive spacer” or “warm edge technology” and choose the highest efficiency glass your budget can afford.
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Q. What is covered under a typical window warranty?
A. It depends on the manufacturer. You may get a lifetime warranty covering certain parts of the window while only getting 10 years on the insulated glass. When comparing warranties, it is important to find out who and what is covered. If you’re installing windows to add value toward the sale of your home, will the warranty pass to the new owner. Or if there is a claim made, does it cover the cost of labor to fix the problem.