Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can windows really help lower my heating and cooling costs?
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Absolutely! Older and less efficient windows allow radiant heat energy to pass through the window more easily. This means that in the summer heat comes in, and in the winter heat escapes. Most windows installed in new homes built prior to 2002 were aluminum-framed with clear, untreated glass. Window technology has come a long way since then. First, the frame materials widely used today include vinyl, fiberglass and aluminum-clad wood frames. These frame materials are non-conductive, unlike aluminum frames. What that means is that heat and cold from the exterior does not transfer that energy as readily to the interior via the frame. Secondly, LowE coatings applied to the glass restrict heat and cold transfer through the glass. For example, the U-factor for a typical dual-pane aluminum-sliding window with clear glass would be approximately .75*. The U-factor for a new replacement vinyl-sliding window with a standard LowE2 glass would be approximately .36. In the determination of U-factors, the lower the number translates into more efficiency. According to the data, the vinyl window would be more than twice as efficient as the old aluminum window.
* Data used directly from NFRC test results available at milgard.com |
Q: What’s the difference between single and dual-paned windows?
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Single-paned windows are virtually obsolete today! However, there are still thousands of homes in the Las Vegas valley built prior to 1980 that still have single-paned windows. Essentially, there is merely a 1/8” thick piece of glass separating the interior of your home from the exterior elements. Dual-pane windows are the current standard in pretty much every window manufactured today, and insulate your home much more efficiently than a single-paned window. Additionally, a dual-pane window will reduce more external noise than a single-paned window. |
Q: Why does condensation form in my windows?
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In our Southern Nevada climate, you may see condensation form in between the panes in your existing dual-pane windows. What this means is that the seal that surrounds the perimeter of your dual-pane unit has been compromised, thus allowing air and moisture to infiltrate the dead air space in your dual-pane unit. The primary cause of this could be due to the build-up of heat in the air space. That air expands as it heats up, thus forcing the two panes of glass outward. As a result, one or both of the panes separate at the edges from the hermetically sealed unit, creating a pathway for exterior air and moisture to penetrate. |
Q: Can I tint the windows on my house?
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Technically, yes. However, most window manufacturers’ warranties become voided once a tinted film is applied. There are different types of LowE glass available that come directly from the window manufacturer that will address your needs. More importantly, the manufacturers’ warranty remains in tact, with no exceptions. |
Q: My old windows seem fine. Why do I need new ones?
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There are several reasons. New windows can improve the overall efficiency of your home, reduce exterior noise and dust, address glare issues, and increase the value of your home. Also, you get the satisfaction of knowing that your new windows would be backed by a solid product warranty for years to come, some of which may even be transferable to a new owner if you are selling your home. |
Q: Will new windows really increase the value of my home?
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In 2002, ”Remodeling” magazine conducted a survey of over 200 real estate agents and appraisers in 15 major markets. They examined the cost spent on replacement windows and how much the windows would add to the value of the house if sold one year later. They found that the average rate of the window replacement cost recouped was 91.6%*.
* Data courtesy of milgard.com
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Q: The frame around my windows is bad. Do I have to replace the whole window?
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Technically speaking, no. However, replacing the entire window, frame and all, will result in a much more energy efficient window as a whole. In addition, by virtue of replacing the complete window, your new window would be covered under manufacturers’ warranties.
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Q: Only the glass in my window is broken. Do I have to replace the whole window?
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Again, technically-speaking, no. In most windows, you can safely replace just the glass portion and not the frame. However, the cost of replacing just the glass is comparable to replacing the complete window. Also, most “glass only” replacements do not come with any real type of warranty, whereas, most complete window units carry a lifetime product warranty.
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Q: Are more expensive windows really better than less expensive ones?
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There are a lot of competitors that tout their product as being “the best.” The fact is, more expensive windows do have additional features and warranties that may be intriguing to the customer. From a pure performance standpoint, most vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum-clad wood windows perform similarly given the same glass options on all. If it’s a particular manufacturer’s product you’re looking for, most manufacturers offer multiple product lines at different price points to fit any budget. The Window Company’s approach is to simply educate our customers so they can make an informed decision.
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Q: If you entirely replace a window, is there stucco and drywall damage to repair?
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Most replacement windows have a flush-fin option on their frames that allow for a more clean and efficient installation, with very little or no stucco and/or drywall damage. There are other methods of installation that the customer may prefer that may cause more damage to the wall conditions surrounding the window opening. The Window Company is well versed in those alternative methods as well. One advantage The Window Company has over the competition is that we can utilize our sister company, The Painting Company, to completely repair the damage, thus keeping all work to be done “in-house” without having to subcontract out any work whatsoever.
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