TIPS & FAQS for Window Replacement and Installations
1. Consider installing replacement windows in the Winter, Spring and Fall. As long as it not raining or snowing and the temperature is above 20°F, we can install replacement windows. (Okay, the wind can’t be blowing 100 mph too.) Since we install one window at a time, there is little disruption to your home even in cooler weather. We have more scheduling flexibility in Winter, Spring and Fall, so we usually can install your windows more quickly. 2. Discounts and high pressure sales techniques – some replacement window companies will offer you an on the spot discount of 30%40% if you sign a replacement contract the first time the sales person visits your home. How can a sales person offer you this deep a discount? Perhaps their opening price is inflated to give you the appearance of giving you a “deal.” Consumer advocates recommend that you check prices from other companies before signing on the spot. Rocky Mountain Window Distributors never offers discounts for signing on the spot. Our quote is always our best price, no strings attached, and it is always good for 30 days. 3. Argon is a clear odorless inert gas that is put between the panes of gas to improve the insulating value of windows. This gas is sealed in the window. If a window containing argon is made in the midwest or in coastal states and brought to our elevation, the gas expands and stresses the window, which can cause premature failure. While it can be done, the window dealer must know the elevation of your home and the size of the windows to specify argon only in the windows that will not be excessively stressed. Milgard manufactures vinyl windows in metro Denver. This means we can specify argon filled windows to 7,700 ft. If you want eStar rated windows and vinyl is your window of choice, consider Milgard windows from Rocky Mountain Window Distributors.
FAQ’s 1. The vinyl windows originally installed in my home are failing. Should I consider vinyl replacement windows? 2. Vinyl windows have been used for many years and like many products there are differing qualities available. Premium vinyl windows such as Milgard Tuscany replacement windows and patio doors are designed to withstand the rigors of our high altitude climate. Milgard has been making windows for over 40 years.They back their products with a Full Lifetime Warranty against defects in manufacturing, seal failure and incidental glass breakage. If you purchase premium vinyl windows and patio doors, like Milgard Tuscany, you will be buying products that will stand the test of time as well as offering the advantages of affordability, low maintenance and good energy efficiency. 3. We hear stories of wood and wood clad windows rotting. Should we avoid wood clad windows? 4. For many years wood windows were the only choice. Properly maintained wood windows last many years. The key is proper installation and proper maintenance. Wood windows with an exterior cladding were introduced minimize the need for exterior maintenance. Like any new technology there have been many successes and a few failures. Many of you are familiar with Oldach window failures. On the other hand, Companies like Andersen, Marvin and Windsor have great track record of producing log lasting low maintenance clad windows. If you want exterior color choice, the beauty and warmth of wood, interior clad wood windows are a great choice.
5. What is Low e glass? Most manufacturers now supply lowe glass as the standard glass in your new or replacement windows. Lowe glass is coated with a special coating that reflects heat and some light. This coating reflects the heat of home back into the home and the heat of the sun out of your home. The benefit of the coating is to improve the insulating value of dual pane glass by as much as 40% over dual pane clear glass. Lowe glass also lowers heat gain from the sun, improving summer time comfort in your building.
6. Some window manufacturers seem to claim to have a “special” low – e glass. Is this the case?
7. This is a yes and no answer. First let me say that window manufacturers do not make the glass in windows, nor do they apply the lowe coatings. This is done by the glass manufacturers. Most standard lowe coatings are low2. There can are variations from glass manufactures to manufacturer, but the performance of the lowe glass does not vary significantly. Low3 is becoming a more common coating and again there are slight variations from one glass manufacturer to another, but the variations are minor. In addition there are special coatings offered to further improve insulating value, to increase solar heat gain, or to make the windows easier to wash on the outside. Clearview’s trained staff can explain what glass options are available, where than could be used in your home or building and the cost and performance differences of the options.