Showing posts with label new windows denver. Show all posts
Showing posts with label new windows denver. Show all posts

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Importance of Windows

written by mari milian

Vinyl replacement window are gaining importance. These windows are generally inexpensive. Vinyl windows are made up of PVC, polyvinyl chloride. In a new house, the moldings are made from PVC material. This material has lot of benefits. Because of this material the home maintenance costs may go down. These windows are 100 percent maintenance free. This reduces costs and time. Since vinyl is colored, the dings and scratches are unnoticeable. Mostly people don't think about what type of window they should buy as they think it is a boring part and so they don't focus on it. Mostly homemakers do not think of replacing windows until they are rotten or when they receive high heating bills.

Start taking care of your window. Before buying a vinyl window decide if you want to shop or trust someone else for shopping. Some people do their research on the internet and find their favorite window and then find a window installation company. Many people may find a window company that offers replacement windows and installation service.

Most of the replacement windows are sold through qualified window dealers. These windows do not need painting or sealing and are less expensive than wood. These windows have a quicker turnaround time than wood windows. Some of the tips before buying a window are picking up a window that last for over 40 years. Choose a window that has low e glass. Buy windows that are gas filled for energy efficiency purposes.

Replacement windows come in different styles like double hung windows, picture windows, awning picture windows, hopper windows, sliding windows, casement windows, awning windows, garden windows, bow and bay windows, storm windows, specialty windows. These windows have different colors like white, beige, cocoa brown, white interior and many other colors. Simonton vinyl windows are extremely durable, resists corrosion, maintenance free. These windows are available in a wide range of styles and shapes. It can be installed easily. Double hung windows are divided into two sections. One section can slide up and the other section can slide down. Do not confuse double hung windows with double glazed windows.

Many homemakers like double hung windows because they are good at inhibiting air intrusion into the house and have a classic appearance. These windows are so popular in style that the manufacturers and installation companies tend to price them competitively. In Double hung windows only one lower half or the upper half can open, both can never be opened at the same time. These types of windows can be cleaned easily. Casement windows have contemporary style windows and bring in more light than other window choices. In casement windows they do not have to push a window up, just turn the crank. Casement windows are tall, awning windows are wider. They work along the same line as casement window. Bay windows are usually three windows combined together. The middle window will not open but the two windows flanking it can be either double hung or casement windows depending on your taste. New windows will give your house a new look.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Consumer Energy Information: EREC Reference Briefs

Window Frames
For very old windows the frame and glazing had almost the same R-value (about R-1). Modern glass technology has improved the insulating performance (R-value) of the glazing itself (Typically R-3 to 8). What the frame of the window is made of has come to dominate how well the window performs overall. Modern window frames are constructed from a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, wood, vinyl and composites such as fiberglass and epoxy resin. Each material has advantages and disadvantages.

Metals
Metal window frames are ideal for openings that require lightweight and strength. However, all metals are very good conductors of heat (R values hundreds of times less than 1). Even metal framed windows with plastic “Thermal breaks” (a plastic strip that separates the exterior side of the frame from the room side) only improve the R-value slightly. There are no metal-framed windows currently available that are comparable in thermal performance to any of the other choices in window frames. Also, unless protected by special finishes, metal frames can oxidize (rust).

Wood
Wooden window frames are better insulating than metal frames (about R-1.4 per inch of thickness) and help to prevent cold weather condensation problems inside the house. However wood does require maintenance (i.e. painting). If they aren’t protected from moisture, they can stick, crack, and rot.

Aluminum-clad and Vinyl-clad Wood
Some manufacturers protect their wood frames by wrapping them with vinyl or aluminum. This helps keep wood window maintenance low. However, if the cladding should come loose and expose the wood to water, it can still rot. The thermal performance is about the same as an ordinary wood frame.

Wood-Plastic composites
Some companies make frames out of a mixture of wood, vinyl and an epoxy adhesive. Such frames are very strong, insulate well, and resist rot even when exposed to water frequently. The insulation value is about the same as an ordinary wood frame.

Vinyl
Vinyl window frames are primarily made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Some manufacturers fill the hollow parts of the fame with foam or fiberglass insulation too. Data shows that the difference in performance between filled and hollow vinyl frames is small. Generally vinyl frames of all types are slightly less of a thermal insulator than wood.

Vinyl window frames are also available in many styles and are generally considered low maintenance and they never need painting. However, the ultraviolet (UV) light can fade colors other than white and cause yellowing and “crazing” in the plastic’s surface. Vinyl frames are also not very rigid. Vinyl windows with large openings usually requite an internal metal extrusion to make the frame stiffer. This can lower the frame’s R-value significantly. Vinyl window frames can also soften, warp, and twist if heat builds up within the fame. In very hot sunny climates direct exposure to sunlight is not recommended.

Fiberglass
Fiberglass window frames are made of a fiberglass and resin composite. Some frames are hollow; others are filled with fiberglass insulation. Most are pre-finished with a polyurethane coating. Such frames are about R-3.

Fiberglass frames are resistant to warping, shrinking, and rotting. Fiberglass window frames are also relatively strong and durable and can hold a large expanse of glass. You can specify almost any color you desire. You can also paint them.

However, they may not be widely available, as there are few companies manufacturing them currently, and the long-term performance is still unknown. Fiberglass window frames also cost more than the other types of window frames.

Frame Construction

Some windows are divided into small sections of glazing or “divided lights”. A divided light window is considerably less energy efficient than other types because of the large number of glazing edges. However, modern multi-pane windows are often whole sheets of glass with optional plastic or wood grilles that attach to the glazing to give the appearance of a divided light window.

The insulation value of a double-pane or triple-pane window is primarily a product of the air space between the panes of glass. Spacers separate the panes at the edges. Until recently, most edge spacers were made of metal, which means the edge of the window has little or no insulating value. Many manufacturers now use improved edge seals with much better thermal performance.

Metal and vinyl frame corners may be welded or screwed together. Either one is acceptable. However, welding a corner can often distort the weather-stripping groove. Always check how well the weather-stripping meets at the corners. There must be no gaps. Wood frames are often “finger-joined” and glued to make a strong corner.

Window frames
are rated A, B, or C according to their performance in an American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) “aging” test that involves exposure to UV light, moisture, and extreme temperatures. “A” rated windows are the best performers.

Summary
Improving the comfort and energy use of a building are the primary factors in deciding to replace windows. Carefully consider your climate, budget, and availability, maintenance, and style of window. You should also check for durability, quality, and warranties. Check the local building department’s requirements regarding egress, safety glass, and window grade before buying. The purchase of the right windows can go far in turning a drafty home into a comfortable and more energy-efficient one.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Importance of Windows

Vinyl replacement window are gaining importance. These windows are generally inexpensive. Vinyl replacement windows are made up of PVC, polyvinyl chloride. In a new house, the moldings are made from PVC material. This material has lot of benefits. Because of this material the home maintenance costs may go down. These windows are 100 percent maintenance free. This reduces costs and time. Since vinyl is colored, the dings and scratches are unnoticeable. Mostly people don't think about what type of window they should buy as they think it is a boring part and so they don't focus on it. Mostly homemakers do not think of replacing windows until they are rotten or when they receive high heating bills.

Start taking care of your window. Before buying a vinyl window decide if you want to shop or trust someone else for shopping. Some people do their research on the internet and find their favorite window and then find a window installation company. Many people may find a window company that offers replacement windows and installation service.

Most of the Denver replacement windows are sold through qualified window dealers. These windows do not need painting or sealing and are less expensive than wood. These windows have a quicker turnaround time than wood windows. Some of the tips before buying a window are picking up a window that last for over 40 years. Choose a window that has low e glass. Buy windows that are gas filled for energy efficiency purposes.

Replacement windows come in different styles like double hung windows, picture windows, awning picture windows, hopper windows, sliding windows, casement windows, awning windows, garden windows, bow and bay windows, storm windows, specialty windows. These windows have different colors like white, beige, cocoa brown, white interior and many other colors. Simonton vinyl windows are extremely durable, resists corrosion, maintenance free. These windows are available in a wide range of styles and shapes. It can be installed easily. Double hung windows are divided into two sections. One section can slide up and the other section can slide down. Do not confuse double hung windows with double glazed windows.

Many homemakers like double hung windows because they are good at inhibiting air intrusion into the house and have a classic appearance. These windows are so popular in style that the manufacturers and installation companies tend to price them competitively. In Double hung windows only one lower half or the upper half can open, both can never be opened at the same time. These types of windows can be cleaned easily. Casement windows have contemporary style windows and bring in more light than other window choices. In casement windows they do not have to push a window up, just turn the crank. Casement windows are tall, awning windows are wider. They work along the same line as casement window. Bay windows are usually three windows combined together. The middle window will not open but the two windows flanking it can be either double hung or casement windows depending on your taste. New windows will give your house a new look.