Snohomish County (425) 258-8182
King County (206) 255-8662
Powered By Dimensionsidesign / privacy statement Copyright 2010 RnL Windows: Seattle Window. All Rights Reserved. / contact /about us
Member
FAQ
HERE ARE SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1 - Who should I buy windows from?
A consumer should select a window company who sells energy efficient products, has a reputation for service and stability, and provides a warranty on the unit. We recommend that you buy from a company with a commitment to participating in the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certification and labeling process and in the ENERGY STAR® Windows program.
2 - Where do I go to buy an efficient window?
Before you buy a window, we recommend that you do your research via the web and written material and then shop around. Windows are complicated devices, made more complicated by the fact that recommended window types vary by climate. Climates where heating is very important have different product recommendations than climates where cooling is more important.
First, educate yourself about what kind of window is right for your climate and needs. Learn about the NFRC and ENERGY STAR® labels and why they are important. Prepare yourself to ask questions. Visit retailers or distributors. Look for the product you want within your price range.
Ask questions of the sales staff and let them tell you about the energy efficiency features of the products. Remember to 1) look for the ENERGY STAR®, 2) Look for the NFRC label, 3) select a product that is right for your climate and your pocketbook. Sometimes a homeowner feels more comfortable with a particular company rather than a particular product. Installation is a very important issue with windows. Ask the company to describe the installation process. Make sure your contractor knows as much about ENERGY STAR® products and NFRC labeling as you do.
3 - Why are my windows drafty and will new windows stop the draft?
Drafty windows and air infiltration could have several causes. Improper installation is often the culprit but not always. If the windows were improperly installed, the defects can normally be corrected without removing or replacing the window.
Proper caulking and flashing should prevent perimeter air leakage. However, if the installation twists or racks the window frame causing the sash weatherstrip not to be able to seal the sash to the frame, removal of the window to correct the problem may be necessary. You can determine whether the air is coming in at the joint between the frame and the house or the joint between the sash and the frame. Hold a lighted candle or lighter in front of each joint when the wind is blowing and slowly move it along the joint. If the flame flickers strongly or goes out, the joint is probably leaking.
If the leak is between the frame and the sash and the window has been installed square, plumb, level and is not twisted or racked, the problem may be construction of the window or window design. If your windows are not efficient in your climate and particularly if it does not have insulated glazing, the air may not be leakage but simply cold room air flowing down the surface of the window.
As the window surface becomes colder, it cools the room air next to it. This cooled room air is then heavier than the warmer room air further into the room. Because the cooled room air is heavier it sinks toward the floor and is replaced by warmer room air, which is then cooled. This process can result in noticeable air flow but it is not air leakage from the outside. Replacement of the window by an energy efficient window is the solution here.
4 - Will new windows eliminate condensation?
Condensation is a direct result of interior humidity and the difference between indoor and outside air temperature. If you keep the humidity in your house low, then the likelihood of experiencing condensation is also low. However, the efficiency of your window will also impact the temperature and humidity level at which condensation occurs. Energy efficient windows will help reduce condensation.
Here's why: high performance windows with low U-factors result in inside glass surface temperatures much closer to the room air temperature. Windows with warm edge technologies and non-metal frames are also less likely to have condensation on the frame or at the edge of the glass.
Insulated "superwindows" with three or more layers will virtually eliminate condensation on the interior surface of the glass -- even under extreme cold weather conditions. Note that in certain conditions (humid mornings after a clear night sky), some superwindows may have dew on their outside surface. These windows are such good insulators, the dew is condensing there just like it does on an insulated wall.
5 - When should I consider replacing my windows?
You should consider replacing your windows if:
* Your windows aren't energy efficient.
* Your wood frames are rotting.
* You get excessive amounts of condensation, fading of furniture and draperies.
* You are tired of painting and staining.
* You feel drafts while sitting near your current windows.
6 - What should I look for when selecting a product?
Choose a company with a proven track record and good references. Make sure you are getting a high quality product and certified installers.
7 - What is low-e glass and why should I consider it?
Low-e glass is short for low-emissivity glass. It has a very thin coat of material on the glass to make it more efficient, especially in very sunny, hot areas. It helps reflect standing heat away from the surface of the glass, keeping unwanted heat out in the summer and desired heat inside in the winter.
Low-e glass is the most cost effective way to increase the efficiency of your windows. Low-e coatings can also help reduce furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that enters your home. Ultraviolet radiation can alter the chemical structure of dyes and other colorants.
Wndow Replacement Specialist
