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.
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