Frequently Asked Questions
QualitySmith Specialty Windows FAQ
Windows and Doors FAQ
- How do I choose the right contractor?
- What exactly is a replacement window?
- Are replacement windows better than my old ones?
- How are windows sold?
- My windows are old and drafty. What's the best way to replace them?
- Will I save any money on my heating and cooling costs with new windows?
- What options do I have?
- Which brand of window is best?
- What's it going to cost me?
- Do I need a building permit?
- How involved is the replacement window installation process?
- How much can I expect to save on monthly heating and cooling bills?
- How do I know what materials are most durable and which would give me the best performance for my money?
- Do I have to put in the same style window that I have now?
- In saving energy is the frame or the glass more important?
- What is a U-factor?
- What is ENERGY STAR®?
What is QualitySmith Specialty Windows?
QualitySmith Specialty Windows is dedicated to simplifying the process of finding a contractor for your project. We provide you pre-screenedd professionals who are eager to work on your project. The most rewarding part of working with QualitySmith Specialty Windows is the value to our customers—our services are absolutely free to you.
Why should I choose QualitySmith Specialty Windows?
Before QualitySmith Specialty Windows, you'd have to ask friends and family to recommend a contractor. If they didn't know one, you'd have to page through the phone book, calling contractors with your fingers crossed. You'd have to do your own research to find out if each contractor was licensed and insured. QualitySmith Specialty Windows helps you absolutely free. Tell us about your project and we'll provide you with up to 4 contractors. They will call you and set up the appointments directly.
How do I choose the right contractor?
Whether it's new construction, or you're simply ready to upgrade your existing windows, several important factors should be weighed before selecting your home window contractor. Is the contractor licensed and trained to work with the materials? A licensed technician who is specifically trained in the installation of your choice of window will assure that your home will look its best and the product will perform as expected when the project is completed. When you use QualitySmith Windows, you don't have to worry. We've checked out all our contractors to make sure they're licensed and qualified to do the work. Once the work is done, will the contractor take care of any problems that arise? Professional contractors depend upon word-of-mouth advertising to keep them in business. When problems occasionally occur, they are ready to make things right. Since QualitySmith Windows only works with established contractors, our homework assures you peace of mind. Does the contractor have a track-record? A fly-by-night contractor may install the windows for less, but if things go wrong, you're left without recourse. Professional contractors work for the long haul, expecting to maintain their clients over time. Contractors who are part of the QualitySmith Windows network have a profile that includes number of years in business—ask a QualitySmith Project Consultant for details.
What exactly is a replacement window?
A replacement window is one that is customized to fit inside your existing window frame. This eliminates expensive carpentry work because your outside and inside window trim remain intact. The new window is fitted to your inside trim for a finished look.
Are replacement windows better than my old ones?
Yes, for several reasons. Most modern windows are easier to maintain than old windows. The glass is at least double-insulated (some triple-insulated) to eliminate the need for storm windows. And many windows tilt-in for easy cleaning.
How are windows sold?
Windows are sold by the u.i., or united inch (width plus height, so a 40x30 window is 40 inches wide and 30 inches high; 40+30=70 united inches). The rough window opening will need to be several inches larger than the window to allow for its installation.
My windows are old and drafty. What's the best way to replace them?
That depends on what you want for a finished product. Since you can change the entire style of a window, you may choose that option. Custom-sized windows are available but are more expensive. Stocks-size windows can actually be more expensive because they can mean more extensive carpentry in the installation process both inside and outside your house. In any event, the added comfort and energy savings will make window replacement your best option.
Will I save any money on my heating and cooling costs with new windows?
Yes, if they are installed properly. As much as 90% of energy loss in your home occurs through your windows. Making your windows more efficient will save you money on your heating bill. In addition, many new windows also have reflective properties, keeping the house cooler in summer months.
Improving your window's insulating value will significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills. But in order to understand insulation, you should know a little about the way the construction industry calculates insulation values, or R-value.
Specifically, R-value is the way of measuring the transfer of heat through a medium, that is to say, how easily does heat move through a particular product. The higher the R-value, the better the product insulates.
Anywhere from 70% to 90% of a window is glass, so the real heating and cooling savings come from improved glass performance, and not necessarily a high R-Value on the frame. Most double insulated glass units have an R value of 2.5 (measured in the center of the glass). With argon-filled options, this increases to 4.5 (triple-glazed increases to 7.5). In comparison, house walls with typical insulation have R-values of between 10 - 20.
Argon gas is colorless, odorless, nonflammable, nontoxic, and above all, a safe, inert gas that is heavier than air. Argon-filled glass helps to keep your house more energy efficient and helps keep out unwanted noise.
Low-e glass has a microscopically thin metal coating on it, which reflects 99% of ultraviolet rays, making your house feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Ultraviolet rays can fade carpet, furniture, draperies, and even woodwork.
Your contractor will be able to direct you to the most energy efficient window options.
What options do I have?
The list is endless. You can change from the style you have now to a different one. You can add low E /argon filled glass, several internal grid options, tempered glass, triple glazed, colors, and more. Ask your contractor for a list of options available for the windows you choose.
Which brand of window is best?
In the USA, there are literally dozens of window manufacturers, ranging from small operations that specialize in stained or specialty glass, to the big manufacturers who supply most of the windows for new construction. The following is a list of the top manufacturers today. Ask your contractor which is best for you.
Andersen Windows
Founded in 1903, Andersen Window manufactures residential doors, windows and skylights. Anderson window models are created in virtually any style, from bay window to double hung tilt and include specialty windows. Andersen products feature a 20-year limited warranty on glass and a 10-year limited warranty on non-glass parts. The limited warranty is non-prorated and fully transferable, so it stays intact even if the home changes ownership.
International Window Company
Since 1957, the International Window Company has manufactured aluminum and vinyl residential windows and doors, including the Majestic, Crown, Imperial, and 2000 series. International Windows products include a limited lifetime parts and labor warranty to the original purchaser.
Marvin Windows
Marvin Window Company makes high quality custom windows, doors, and skylights with careful craftsmanship and attention to detail. Marvin products are carry a 10-year warranty against defects in manufacturing, materials and workmanship. If such a defect appears during the term of this warranty, Marvin will, at its option (1) repair the defective product, (2) replace the defective materials or (3) refund your purchase price. If replacement is elected, Marvin will not be responsible for installation or refinishing of replacement parts.
Milgard Windows
Begun in Tacoma, Washington in 1958, Milgard Windows has grown to include the manufacture of residential windows, doors, and skylights. Milgard's lifetime warranty guarantees repair or replacement of any defective window, door or skylight free of cost to the original homeowner, parts and labor included.
Pella Windows
Pella Window Company, founded in 1925, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of premium-quality windows, entry door systems, storm doors and patio doors. The Pella brand offers a full range of residential window products, including Architect Series©, Designer Series©, Impervia©, and ProLine. Available window styles include Double-Hung, Casement, Awning, Bow/Bay, Circlehead, Fixed Frame, and Skylight. Pella products carry a limited 20 year warranty.
Schüco Windows
Widely regarded as one of the best performing windows on the market, Schüco is the world's largest manufacturer of windows. Founded in 1951 in Germany, Schüco is in over 60 countries. Schüco windows are now manufactured in Connecticut for the US market. Schüco windows use the cutting-edge energy-efficient TPS (Thermoplastic System) insulated glass sealing system that prevents heat loss.
What's it going to cost me?
Windows are sold by the united inch (width plus height). And each option adds to the total price. The more carpentry (and therefore labor) involved, the higher the cost of the project. Talk to your contractor and have him explain your options.
Do I need a building permit?
Permit requirements vary by individual city. Talk to your contractor to see if you will need to file for a permit.
How involved is the replacement window installation process?
Replacement windows have a fairly easy installation process. The installation can usually be scheduled in about two to three weeks and the average install takes only one day.
How much can I expect to save on monthly heating and cooling bills?
In general, your savings will be significant. This, of course, depends on the type of replacement windows you purchase.
How do I know what materials are most durable and which would give me the best performance for my money?
Windows are typically made of three different materials--aluminum, wood, or vinyl. Aluminum scratches easily and is a poor insulator. Wood can be high maintenance, involving painting, caulking and refinishing, but provides the better insulation--and for many, great aesthetic value. Vinyl is more durable and generally less expensive, but can crack in extreme temperatures.
Do I have to put in the same style window that I have now?
There's certainly no reason to keep your old style of windows if you don't want to, especially with a QualitySmith Windows contractor helping you make good choices. New window styles can change an ordinary house into the premiere house in the neighborhood. Opening the space between two smaller windows to create one larger window will make the interior of your house seem larger and will brighten any room.
Take a look at the variety of windows and glass doors available. These are just a few of the almost endless options available to you. Hung windows open by sliding up and down, while vent windows slide from side to side. One of the advantages of sliding windows includes more precise control of ventilation. Awning windows swing open on a horizontal axis. Casement windows turn on a vertical axis (like a revolving door). Awning and casement windows are easier to clean because they allow easier access to the glass.
Imagine putting a garden window in your bathroom or kitchen, a bay window in your living room, or French doors out onto the deck. Your window contractor can help you make your dreams a reality.
In saving energy is the frame or the glass more important?
Approximately 70% of a window is glass, so the real heating and cooling savings come from improved glass performance, and not a high R-Value on the frame.
What is a U-factor?
The U-factor is a standard measure of heat transfer through an entire window unit. The methods for measuring U-factor ratings were developed by the National Fenestration Rating Counsel (NFRC) at the request of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Federal Trade Commission. The U-factor tells you how much heat would escape through the entire window unit in winter, and how much of your air-conditioning would leak out during the summer. The lower the U-factor, the better the window's insulating ability. (A window's U-factor is the reciprocal of it's R-factor, they both measure it's insulating ability. Look for windows with low U-factors and high R-factors.)
What is ENERGY STAR®?
The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed this label for various products including windows. R-Values and U-Values are impossible for a homeowner to verify by inspection so this ENERGY STAR® label indicates a product that meets the efficiency values given.
Still don't see the answer to your question?
Contact us at info@qualitysmith.com