Buying new windows can be a daunting task. A lot of research and lead-time is required
in order to make the right choice, and you need to find a reliable installation
company to ensure quality and safety. So it’s no wonder that most people only replace
their windows once in their life. Most people simply trust their contractor to select
and install their windows. However, in this age of the internet, homeowners like
you are now able to invest more “shopping time” to determine the best window for
your needs. We have seen a significant increase in this type of personal research
over the past few years, and we think its great! The more research you do, the happier
you will be with the final product. Here are our suggestions for places to start
your search. Of course, we hope that your research brings you right back here to
Windows on Washington! Give us a call or send us a note. We’re here to help!
Excellent Resources for Consumer Questions and Answers
windows.lbl.gov/pub/selectingwindows/window.pdf
U.S. Department of Energy offers a comprehensive guide to the selection process
for windows based upon energy efficiency.
www.efficientwindows.org
The Efficient Windows Collaborative offers generic technical comparisons between
the different technologies available in windows today.
www.vinylinfo.org/
The Vinyl Institute website shares information about the plastics industry, including
windows and doors and other building products.
www.aamanet.org/upload/CMB-5-05.pdf
The American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association sets the rules for testing
the performance of building products like windows. For those of you with technical
aptitude, this link will reveal one such test that is frequently referenced in the
window business as it measures air, water, and structural window performance.
www.aamanet.org/upload/AAMA_Certification_Labels-3-10-05.pdf
The American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association carries several different
classifications of members, with Gold Label the highest designation. This link explains
the differences. Go to Home and learn more about this influential industry agency.
www.aceee.org
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy offers little specific information
relating to windows, but it does afford a glimpse at the importance of making an
effort to fight the waste of energy, which is a key buying appeal of high-performance
replacement windows.
www.ase.org
The Alliance to Save Energy is another energy-specific site that offers insight
to the benefits of replacement windows and other home improvement decisions that
can reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources.
http://cpd.nfrc.org/pubsearch/psMain.asp
The National Fenestration Rating Council lists all certified results of every manufactured
window it tests for Thermal Performance. This includes U-value, Solar Heat Gain
Coefficient, and Visible Transmittance.
http://hes.lbl.gov
Home Energy Saver is the first web-based do-it-yourself energy audit tool.