Question 1

Q: How do I know what type of glazing is right for a window?

Accepted Answer

A: Different climates and styles of homes require different glazing options to maximize energy efficiency. Some glazing options can also help reduce outdoor noises from entering the home. Options range from the single-glazed glass with minimal insulating value (commonly found in historic homes), up through dual-sealed, triple-insulated glass with multiple Low E surfaces with an argon gas-filled insulated airspace for maximum efficiency. However, the premiere glazing choice for superior energy efficiency is Zo-e-shield®, the World’s Best Energy Glass™. The proprietary glazing system features the Real Warm Edge™ Flexible Spacer, EasyCare™ glass coating, multiple layers of Low E coating and argon gas-filled airspaces. The Zo-e-shield glazing system is available on many of the company’s windows and doors in several configurations – from Zo-e-shield 5 through Zo-e-shield 8 – to fit an array of applications. Weather Shield is proud to feature the ENERGY STAR label on a wide range of windows and doors featuring an array of glazing options designed to provide superior comfort in climates across the country.

Question 2

Q: What are the advantages of airspace and perimeter grilles?

Accepted Answer

A: Airspace grilles feature the muntin bars sealed in the insulating airspace between two panes of glass and make the windows easier to clean. Perimeter grilles have an easy snap-in design that allows you to easily remove them for cleaning and to quickly change the look of the windows. Custom grilles can be designed to fit several architectural styles and are also available as removable perimeter grilles for easy installation and removal.

Question 3

Q: What do U-values and R-values really mean?

Accepted Answer

A: When choosing any window or door, look for information that lists the product’s U-Value and R-Value. U-Values represent the amount of heat that escapes through a wall, window, roof or other surface. The lower the U-Value, the more energy efficient a material is. R-Values are the direct opposite and they measure an object’s resistance to heat flow. The higher a material’s R-Value, the lower its U-Value, and the less energy it will lose. An R-Value depends on the number of layers of glass in a window, what type of gas is between those layers, and whether one or more of the layers of glazing have been treated with a Low E coating.

Question 4

Q: What does Low E stand for?

Accepted Answer

A: The term “Low E” means low emissivity. Emissivity is a property that’s unique to materials, such as glass, which light can freely pass through. Low E is a coating of non-visible, microscopic layers of silver sandwiched between layers of anti-reflective metal oxide coatings. Added to the surface of window and door glass, Low E provides greater energy efficiency, increased comfort and protection from damaging UV rays. By filtering out the part of the light spectrum that transmits heat, Low E reduces a window’s U-Value and increases its R-Value.

Question 5

Q: What causes condensation on the inside of my windows?

Accepted Answer

A: Interior window condensation is caused by excessive moisture in the house, and it often occurs in the winter when the warm air inside the house condenses on the cold windows. Condensation between window panes occurs when the seal between the panes is broken or when the desiccant inside the windows is saturated

Question 6

Q: Will vinyl replacement windows stop condensation?

Accepted Answer

A: First, it must be pointed out that condensation is not always the fault of the window. In some cases, the inside of a home is simply too humid and warm relative to the surface of the window. Condensation forms in homes like these, that do not have enough ventilation and air flow and that stay hot and humid all the time. To reduce condensation, open windows and run fans to let the air flow. Keep doors open between rooms as well.

But with, new windows do tend to help cut down on condensation. Today's energy efficient windows allow much less heat loss through the panes. This means the inside surface of the glass is much less likely to be affected by the outside temperature. With this glass temperature much closer to the temperature of the warm, moist air, condensation is much less likely to form. New energy efficient vinyl windows do a great job of keeping the outside weather out and the inside climate in. One of the results of this efficiency is a reduction in the occurrence of window condensation. Still, there are always ways we can help reduce this occurrence ourselves.

Question 7

Q: What is Energy Star certification?

Accepted Answer

A: Installing Energy Star certified windows, doors, and skylights helps homeowners lower their energy bills and saves them money. With this kind of energy efficiency, consumers also use less energy to heat or cool off their home, which helps reduce greenhouse gas pollution. Energy Star certification is a process of testing and verifying the energy efficiency of home products such as windows. High performers, such as double-glazed windows, are certified and fitted with the Energy Star label.