Glass and Window construction & installation
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New Windows
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Windows FAQ
What follows is a list of frequently asked questions. If you have a question not mentioned below, please feel free to contact us for additional information.
Q: How can I tell if I should replace my windows?
Q: When selecting a product and an installer, what should I look for? A: Choose an installer with a proven track record and good local references. Your choosen products should have a good warrantee, be, at least, double pane construction, and be suitable for your application. Q: Is low-e glass desireable? Why? A: Low-emissivity glass (low-e glass), has a very thin coat of material on the glass to make it more efficient, especially in very sunny, hot areas such as the west coast. 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 energy efficiency of the windows. Low-e coatings can also help reduce furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that enters the home. Harmful ultraviolet radiation can alter the chemical structure of dyes and other colorants in carpets and furniture causing fading. Q: Once ordered, what is the wait time for delivery of my windows? A: Custom orders typically take seven to ten working days to manufacture. Q: Can Glass Crafters custom-build windows to fit an odd-sized opening? A: Yes, Glass Crafters' suppliers custom-build windows to the nearest 1/8" increment and can produce a variety of shapes and sizes. Q: My windows get condensation on the inside. What causes this? A:  Condensation is caused by humidity (the amount of water vapor present in the air). When this water vapor encounters a surface at a cooler temperature than that of the surrounding air, it turns to visible droplets of moisture. Double and triple glazed windows reduce the condensation effect somewhat, and vinyl window frames won't be subject to rot like older wooden frames are. You can reduce the moisture in your home by using fans in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms to circulate the air. A dehumidifier may be helpful in removing excess humidity from the air.What does AAMA and NFRC certified mean to me? A: The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) sets all performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the window industry. When a product passes AAMA tests, it ensures long, reliable service if properly installed and maintained correctly. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit organization created by the Department of Energy and supported by the window, door and skylight industry to provide consistent ratings on window, door and skylight products pertaining to the energy performance of that product. A NFRC label is placed on window, door, and skylight products to inform consumers about the U-factor of the product. Factors taken into consideration for the U-factor rating include the ability of the product to block warming caused by sunlight, light transmittance and air infiltration through cracks in the product assembly. 
Q: What is the best way to evaluate a window's energy performance? The easiest way to compare energy performance of different windows and doors is to read the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. It provides valuable energy efficiency information about the product including the u-value, solar heat gain and visible transmittance values. Also, check to see if the product is ENERGY STAR® qualified. 
Q: You spoke of a rough opening, what is that? A: It's the opening in the wall frame that a replacement window must fit into. As a rule of thumb, the rough opening should be a half-inch taller and wider than the frame of the window being installed. Q: What is a "composite material?" A: It's a blend of thermoplastic alloys that is used in place of wood, vinyl, or aluminum to build the frame of a window. The composite material is encased in PVC capstock, which helps ensure that it won't fade, chip or scratch. The end result is a window that won't warp, peel, rot or leak. Q: How do composite windows compare to wood windows? A:  Composite windows cost less than most wood windows and usually offer a lifetime warranty for parts and service. Most wood windows offer a 10-year warranty on the window and a 20-year warranty on the glass. The interior and exterior of a wood window will require more maintenance due to fading and peeling of paint, whereas a composite window is as maintenance free as a vinyl window. With a composite window you never have to worry about wood rot, which is a huge concern with wood windows over time.
Q: How do composite windows compare to vinyl windows? A: Composite windows are priced competitively with wood windows and are considered an upgrade over vinyl windows. Q: Is it difficult to take care of composite windows? A: No. Composite windows are extremely low-maintenance. Tilt sash windows allow for easy access and the interior muntin system increases the ease of cleaning. Because the color is extruded with the capstock the color will not chip, peel or fade like paint. |
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