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Replacement Windows
Understanding Windows
on the product indicating their participation. Others will participate in the Window and Door
Manufacturer's Association (WDMA)
of these organizations is an indication that you are dealing with a manufacturer who cares about the
quality of their product and the product's energy efficiency.
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. We recommend that you go to the membership list on this web site, click on manufacturers, and become familiar with Efficient Windows
Collaborative members who sell products in your area. Go to member web sites, explore their products, information, and materials. Then 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:
Look for the ENERGY STAR.
Look for the NFRC label.
Select a product that is right for your climate and your pocketbook.
Sometimes a homeowner feels more comfortable with a particular contractor rather than a particular product. Installation is a very important issue with
windows. Ask your contractor to describe the installation process. Make sure your contractor knows as much about ENERGY STAR products and NFRC
labeling as you do.
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. CAUTION: BE CAREFUL NOT TO CATCH THE DRAPES OR
BLINDS ON FIRE!!!
If the problem is installation, you will have to work with the builder or a contractor to correct the problem. 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.
If the problem is the construction of the window in a new house or a recent retrofit, you will have to work with the builder or contractor and the
window manufacturer to correct the problem. Your ability to get satisfaction here will depend greatly on how the window was specified in your contract
or by the builder and your ability to negotiate with these parties. You certainly should be entitled to receive what you specified and paid for. However,
if the specification was vague or non-existent, you must negotiate to improve your situation.
What is the conversion from US (imperial) to European (metric) units for the U-factor?
To convert the U-factor from English to SI units, multiply the English number by 5.678. For example, If U=0.35 Btu/hr-sf-F in English units, then
0.35*5.678 = 1.9873. The U-factor in SI units will be 1.9873 W/mK. The SHGC is dimensionless so it has the same value in both systems.
Replacement Windows
Understanding Windows
EWC Information
Benefits
Energy & Costs Savings
Lower HVAC Costs
Improved Comfort
Reduced Condensation
Increased Light & View
Reduced Fading
Design Considerations
Providing Views
Providing Daylight
Providing Fresh Air
Measuring Performance
U- factor
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
Visible Transmittance
Air Leakage
Condensation Resistance
NFRC
ENERGY STAR
Performance Standards
Window Technologies
Operator Types
Glazing Types
Gas Fills
Spacers
Frame Types
Emerging Technologies
Tools
Window Selection Tool
RESFEN
BEOPT
Fact Sheets & Publications
State Fact Sheets
Code Guides
Books
Financing & Incentives
Membership
Members List
Information & Application
Glossary
Links
FAQ