WINDOWS

What is there to know about windows? Lots! It can be very difficult to tell the difference between good and not-so-good (i.e., BAD) windows. Let's look at the different types of windows, the parts to a window and then what to look for in a window.

Windows are one of the most important parts of your home, take quite a beating from the weather and are one of the weak-points in a home's energy efficiency rating.

Window Types

• Casement - These windows are also known as "crank-out" windows. Often, the most efficient of the opening window styles as they crank shut and latch, creating a very tight seal and preventing drafts. Screens are on the inside and can be removed in the winter months, creating a cleaner view out the windows.
• Slider or Gliding - These are perhaps the most common window styles. The name(s) are often used interchangeably with the Double-hung window. Slider or Gliding windows typically move side-to-side.
• Double-hung - Typically move up and down and are very common as replacement windows. A convenient feature of these windows is that they often tilt in, making cleaning easy. Screens are often on the outside, causing the screens to also need frequent cleaning or vacuuming.
• Bow and Bay - These windows often go from the floor to the ceiling or close to the ceiling, adding a small amount of livable square footage for an eating or sitting area. Bay windows have pronounced angles and typically protrude farther than the bow window.
• Skylight - Windows in the ceiling to allow light or in the opening styles, also ventilation into a room.

Window Parts

Sash - portion of the window that opens

Sill - lower horizontal surface of the window

Muntin - pieces dividing the individual glass panes. Current designs commonly use a grid which is a "fake" muntin.

Casing - framing over the window opening on the home's exterior, typically made of wood boards

Glazing - glass or other materials that transmit light through the window

Jamb - portion of window frame against which the sash closes

What to Look for

1. Energy Efficiency

• R-value - this is a measure of the resistance of the window to energy transmission. The higher the R-value, the better insulating the window is
• U-value - the inverse (opposite) of R-value (lower is better)
• UV Transmittance - some windows have a coating to block ultraviolet radiation - the sunlight that causes your curtains and carpet to fade

2. Construction

• Wood exterior or interior - will need paint or stain but can be matched to your home's exterior and/or interior. Think routine maintenance with this, NOT maintenance-free. Look for knot-free construction as knots can cause distortion and bowing.
• Double or triple pane - the more insulating panes, generally, the better insulating qualities
• Low E glazing - E stands for emissivity or the ability of the glass to trasmit radiant heat. Typically will have a thin metallic layer on the glass to prevent radiant heat loss from the home's interior
• Gas-filled - most double or triple pane windows will have argon or some other inert gas in the void to create an insulation layer. NOTE: When the seal fails on the glazing and the gas is replaced by room air, this causes the condensation to form between the panes or the "fogging" that is commonly found in older windows

3. Manufacturer

There are many good manufacturers and different grades of windows with each manufacturer so it pays to do yoru research. Check with builders and trade publications as well as the Better Business Bureau.

Talk with representatives from a few companies that have good reputations or that come recommended and who have products that fit your needs. Choose your windows wisely - they have a dramatic impact on the look and the performance of your home and with good windows and installation, they should last you a long time.