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An efficient lesson on energy efficiency.
When you begin to consider the energy performance of a window or door, there are some terms used in our industry that you may not be familiar with. To help you better understand how the energy performance of a window or door is evaluated, we have outlined a few key measurement factors.
U-values & R-values
Also known as the U-factor, the U-value measures how much heat loss or gain can be transferred through a window or door. The lower the U-value, the greater the product’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. U-value measurements generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. For windows and doors, a low U-Value means less heat is able to penetrate your home during warmer months AND less heat is able to escape during colder months. The inverse (one divided by) the U-value is the R-value. The R-value measures the ability of a window or door to resist heat transfer. The higher the R-value, the greater resistance the window or door has to heat gain or loss. During warmer months, a high R-value means more unwanted heat from the sun is kept out, and in colder months, a high R-value means heated air stays inside where it belongs. Low E glass can have a positive effect on both U- and R-values.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
Quite simply, the SHGC value indicates how much direct sunlight and absorbed heat that can enter your home through your windows or doors. Sometimes referred to as a shading coefficient and usually expressed as a value between 0 and 0.87, a lower SHGC value is preferred. Just like U- and R-values, Low E glass will increase your window or door’s performance against solar heat gain.
STANDARD SINGLE HUNG Less Expensive Interlocking design to help prevent drafts. Closed-cell bulb protects against air & water infiltration. Easy-to-move constant force coil balance system. Bottom sash tilts in for easy cleaning from inside. A pop-out vent latch to partially open for ventilation Disadvantages ONLY the Bottom Sash Moves No Tax Credit Thinner Glass Less slope on the sill Standard Spacer Standard Warranty
Advantages
FRAME TYPES
The most popular option, more durable than aluminum and wood , resistant to corrosion, swelling, and peeling, reduced energy bills due to good insulation properties of vinyl, medium to high R-value, low maintenance, competitive pricing, moldable into a variety of shapes, resistant to scratches, fits well with most structural designs, covers a wide range of prices. Disadvantages of vinyl windows include its properties change with temperature, repainting is not recommended, needs to be shielded from very high temperatures, since vinyl is extruded, it not as easy to shape as aluminum. Three times as strong as vinyl and twenty times as strong as wood, cheaper than vinyl, low maintenance, easy to repaint, second only to Vinyl in durability, maintains its properties under all weather conditions, easier than vinyl to shape and bend, does not rust or crack, complements a range of architectural styles. Disadvantages include: aluminum is a poor insulator, poor R-value, reduced energy savings, requires addition of sealants to improve thermal resistance and reduce condensation, exposed metal may get oxidized. The most elegant and appealing replacement window option, maximum color options, retains its properties under a range of temperature conditions, unlimited design options, excellent insulator so it affords better energy savings, higher R-values. On the flip side, wood is more expensive than vinyl and aluminum, requires regular maintenance, i.e. painting or staining, it needs protection from moisture to prevent it from cracking and splitting, weaker than vinyl and aluminum. An option of aluminum clad or vinyl-clad windows allows you the benefits of easy maintenance afforded by aluminum and vinyl to go along with the beauty, elegance, and thermal properties of wood. Swelling and cracking of wood is prevented. Factors to consider include ease of operating the windows and quality of paint and finish opted for as these affect the resilience and appearance of the window. CLADDED WINDOWS ARE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE AND COMPOSITE CLADDING IS AN UNPROVEN TECHNOLOGY.
PREMIUM DOUBLE HUNG BOTH upper and Lower sash is operable Interlocking design to help prevent drafts. Closed-cell bulb protects against air & water infiltration. Easy-to-move constant force coil balance system. Bottom sash tilts in for easy cleaning from inside. A pop-out vent latch to partially open for ventilation Insulating glass unit is set ½'' deep into the sash Weatherseals virtually eliminate air and water infiltration Standard Low E glass and an Argon gas fill Premium Spacer Comprehensive warranty Disadvantages Repainting is not recommended Since vinyl is extruded, it not as easy to shape. Vinyl looks slightly bulkier compared to metal and wood
Advantages
Glass Options
When it comes to saving energy and keeping your home more comfortable, you need the right glass package to get the job done. Our windows combine the most effective features and the most advanced designs to achieve truly impressive year-round thermal performance. Standard Glass Package In summer months, Low E glass keeps cool air inside while keeping hot air outside. In winter, Low E glass keeps warm air in and cold air out. Low E glass also blocks 84% of UV rays which can fade carpets, draperies and artwork. 1” I.G. and Super Spacer® Krypton Gas Fill Laminated Glass
The standard glass package on most windows comprises ProSolar™ soft coat Low E glass, an Argon gas fill, the Intercept® spacer system and a deep-set insulating glass unit.
This upgrade combines double-strength ProSolar™ soft coat Low E glass, an Argon gas fill, the Super Spacer® solid silicone foam spacer and a 1” insulating glass unit.
Available on select series, this optional upgrade increases efficiency by replacing air in the insulating glass unit with Krypton gas. Nearly 12 times the density of air, Krypton gas provides superior insulation.
For the ultimate in efficiency and security, choose laminated glass. This remarkable glass blocks over 99% of the sun's most damaging UV rays. For added safety, the laminated glass will not fall out inside the home if the window is struck with force and also helps reduce noise transmission.
