Q:  What are u-values?

 

A:  U-values indicate the rate of heat flow through the whole window (glass and vinyl frame) based on nighttime conditions.  The lower the u-value, the more energy efficient the window is. 

 

 

Q:   How are u-values determined?

 

A:   The N.F.R.C. (National Fenestration Rating Council) is in an independent, non-profit program that assures that windows displaying the NFRC label provide unbiased ratings for comparing different brands and types of windows.  This eliminates manufacturers’ from claiming incorrect u-values. 

 

 

Q:  What is LowE glass?

 

A:   The “E” stands for emissivity.  LowE is a coating sprayed on the glass.

 

 

Q:  I have odd-sized windows, how much extra will it cost for custom sizes?

 

A:  All the brands we use offer custom prices at no extra charge, as long as the company can build it (they do have limitations).  Larger windows or multiple windows mulled together can be an up-charge.

 

 

Q:  What are grids?

 

A:  Grids are decorative lines in between the panes of glass

 

 

Q:  What is argon gas and what is its’ advantage?

 

A:   It is a non-toxic gas found in the air we breathe.  Adding argon between the panes of glass is a better insulator than air.  It can also lower the u-value, making the window that much more energy efficient.

Q:  What does LowE glass do?

 

A:  In the wintertime, the suns energy is “short wave radiation” that passes through the window and is absorbed by carpet and furniture, etc.  Then the energy is transformed into long wave radiation.  The long wave radiation wants to flow from warm to cool, naturally it will try to escape from glass.  At night time, the radiant heat produced from furnaces, wood stoves, etc. will also want to escape out.  The LowE coating prevents this when the radiant room side heat is reflected back into the home which results in lower winter u-values.

 

    In the summertime, the LowE coating “manages the suns heat” by reducing the amount of heat transferring through the window.  The LowE coating filters the suns short wave radiation which cuts down the amount of solar heat gain into your home. 

 

    Throughout the year, LowE reduces ultraviolet rays, which can damage curtains, flooring, furniture, etc.  It also reduces heating and cooling costs for both cold and warm climates.  LowE glass differs in color and each manufacturer may carry a different brand of LowE than another manufacturer. 

 

Q:  How much do replacement windows cost?

 

A:  Each home has different characteristics which affect pricing.  Siding, existing window type, grids, the amount of windows, and safety glass are just a few examples. A TYPICAL 1-story house with (8) windows can range between $1,500 and $ 3,500 (labor included).

 

 

Q:  How many days does it take to replace my windows?

 

A:  Depending on the amount of windows and application, a typical 1-story house with (8) windows just takes one day!  Our expertise is to custom measure the new windows to fit tight where the old windows were removed-if this is done properly, the installation process goes very easy.

Construction Contractors Board #105404