Ultraviolet (UV) rays are the most harmful radiation in sunlight. They are the most energetic and thus most likely to break chemical bonds, leading to fading and degradation.
Coatings on glass can reduce the UV transmitted by up to 75%. UV absorbers can be incorporated into thin plastic films in multilayer windows or as an interlayer in laminated glass. In both cases, the UV transmission can be reduced to less than 1%. However, it is important to note that the remaining visible light that is transmitted can still cause fading in some materials. Using low-E coated glass or windows incorporating plastic layers rather than clear uncoated glass will reduce fading.
INVISIBLE PERKS SMALLER HVAC
High-performance windows provide reduced utility bills, and they reduce the peak heating and cooling loads. The peak load for a building is the maximum requirement for heating or cooling at one time. These loads determine the size of the furnace, heat pump, air conditioner and fans that must be installed. Reducing peak load may allow homeowners to install a smaller HVAC system, which costs less.
Properly sized HVAC systems allow for a number of benefits. First, by running more constantly, smaller HVAC systems provide the best air quality and comfort. Second, HVAC systems that are more closely matched to peak cooling loads achieve better dehumidification, which prevents mold. Several computation procedures exist for proper sizing of HVAC equipment. The most prominent, which are recommended by the Energy Star Homes program, are ACCA Manual J and the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals. GB
ANDERSEN 100 SERIES WINDOW WITH SMARTSUN GLASS
The 100 Series of windows features an economical price and energy-saving performance. Frames are made of Fibrex, a composite of sawdust and polymer, and the SmartSun low-E glass qualifies for tax credits.
www.andersenwindows.com
NEW EMPHASIS ON WINDOW INSTALLATION
To keep pace with increasingly advanced glazings, window and door makers have fine-tuned the science of installation. That’s a good thing because you can put the best-made, highest-rated window in a new home and still feel a cold draft next to the frame. But if that happens, chances are it’s your fault, not the window maker’s. You didn’t follow the precise instructions they provide, free of charge.
It used to be that window installation tips were often simplistic—or considered the builder’s responsibility. But companies such as Milgard and Marvin have poured a lot of research, experience, and money into educating end users about their products.
The Internet, of course, has made that process much easier. But the building science of installation has improved alongside new flashing systems, expanding foam sealants, and clad and composite window frames. Take a look at the websites at right (and the sample instructions we’ve pulled directly from their pages), and you’re likely to learn some best practices that will save you labor, keep you from having to reinstall a window, and even improve energy efficiency. They also include tips that will help increase the product’s durability.
MILGARD
Sample Instruction: “In removing existing materials [for retrofit installation] it is important not to disturb the existing weather barrier, as it will still be used.”
http://pro.milgard.com/
MARVIN (INTEGRITY LINE)
Sample Instruction: “If a flexible adhesive membrane is not used to pan the sill, be sure to properly seal the bottom corners of the rough opening.”
www.integritywindows.com
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