10 industry words to know before shopping for new windows

 

If you’re in the market for replacement windows, chances are that you may have heard a salesperson mention a range of unfamiliar industry-related terms and words. Listed below are 10 of the most commonly used words in the window replacement industry.

1. Awning Windows

These windows are hinged at the top and they open outwards, allowing fresh air to flow without letting water indoors during rainy or snowy weather.

2. Laminated Glass

This consists of two or more sheets of glass that have essentially been fused together, which prevents glass shards from flying all over in the event of the pane being broken.

3. R-Value

The R-Value refers to the resistance of window glass to the conduction of heat. This value is especially important in hotter climates, as a higher R-Value helps keep buildings cooler inside.

4. Low E Glass

This glass is more energy-efficient than regular glass because it reflects heat back indoors during winter to keep the home warm and it keep exterior heat outside during summer. As a result, using it reduces energy costs substantially.

5. Bottom Rail

This is the bottom or horizontal part of the window sash that supports the full weight of the glass pane.

6. Condensation

This is water vapor that is deposited on window glass when it has a temperature which is below the dew point. If condensation forms between double or triple glazed window panes, it’s time to replace them.

7. Double and Triple Glazing

These two terms refer to either 2 or 3 panes of glass that have been separated by an insulating space in windows or patio doors. This forms a dry area between each pane, which not only provides insulation; it prevents noise from entering a home as well. Nowadays, more than 50% of homes have double or triple glazed windows installed.

8. Argon

Argon is a non-toxic gas that is sometimes used between window panes instead of insulated glass. It provides a higher level of insulation than air and it also doesn’t degrade a pane’s low E coating like air can over time.

9. Gliders

These are sideways operating windows that have 1 sash fixed, while the other glides or slides open and closed horizontally. Up to 20% of homes replace older windows with these.

10. Rough Opening

This refers to the opening in a wall where a window is going to be installed. These openings need to be larger than the size of the replacement window in order to shim the window square and provide sufficient room for insulation material.

If you are in the market to purchase replacement windows for your home, the team at Canadian Choice Windows & Doors will be more than willing to assist you. All of the windows supplied come standard with Energy Advantage Low E Glass panes, meaning that they will be energy-efficient from the time of installation. Contact them today to find out more about their top quality product range.