Frequently Asked Questions about Window Estimates Online, windows and patio doors

Q. Who should I buy windows from?

A. 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.

Q. Why are my windows drafty and will new windows stop the draft?

A. 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 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 in 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 i n noticeable air flow, but it is not air leakage from the outside. Replacement of the window with an energy efficient window is the solution here.

Q. When should I consider replacing my windows?

A. 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.

Q. What causes condensation on windows?

A. Condensation is caused by excess humidity, (invisible water vapor present in the air.) When this water vapor encounters a surface at a cooler temperature, it turns to visible droplets of moisture. To reduce the moisture in your Michigan home, use fans in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms to circulate the air. A dehumidifier can be used to remove excess humidity from the air.

Q. What is R-Value?

A. Refers to a window’s resistance to thermal transfer or heat flow. The higher the value, the better the insulation.

Q. What is insulated glass?

A. Strictly speaking, "insulated" glass is a misnomer. What the term means is that there are two or more panes of glass separated by insulation at the edges and air in the center, which provides greater thermal efficiency.

Q. What is a gas-filled window?

A. Modern window technology seals an inert gas (usually argon) between the panes of glass. The gas is a far better insulator than just air, so it further increases the window's thermal value.

Q. I've heard the term low-E glass. What exactly is that?

A. Low-E stands for low emittance. Simply put, the glass is coated with a virtually clear material that acts to cut the transmission of ultraviolet rays from outside to inside. Low-E glass further improves thermal efficiency of the window, cuts glare and prevents the damage that ultra-violet rays can cause to interior furnishings. If you are in a climate that has long, hot summers, low-E windows can make a big difference in your air-conditioning bill, too.

Q. What is the difference between R-value and U-value?

A. R-value is often citied in insulation literature, and U-value appears in published material on windows. Essentially R-value and U-value are two sides of the same coin. The term R-value is usually citied when discussing things as wall and ceiling insulation value, but it does not translate well to windows and other fenestration products, so the industry uses the term U-values instead. It's important to note that these ratings relate to each other inversely: A higher R-value means better insulated walls and ceilings, while with U-values, a lower number indicates that the window does a better job a of keeping out heat and cold.