FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Atlanta Energy Concepts! A consumer should select a window company that sells energy efficient products, has a reputation for service and stability, and provides a warranty on the unit. We recommend that you buy from a company with a commitment to participating in the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certification and labeling process and in the ENERGY STAR® Windows program. Many companies will also participate in the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and will have a permanent label on the product indicating their participation. Membership in all of these organizations is an indication that you are dealing with a manufacturer who cares about the quality of their product and the product’s energy efficiency.

Before you buy a window, we recommend that you do your research via the web and written material and then shop around. Windows are complicated devices, made more complicated by the fact that recommended window types vary by climate. Climates where heating is very important have different product recommendations than climates where cooling is more important. First, educate yourself about what kind of window is right for your climate and needs. Learn about the NFRC and ENERGY STAR® labels and why they are important. Prepare yourself to ask questions. Visit retailers or distributors. Look for the product you want within your price range. Ask questions of the sales staff and let them tell you about the energy efficiency features of the products. Remember to

1. look for the ENERGY STAR®
2. look for the NFRC label
3. select a product that is right for your climate and your pocketbook.

Sometimes a homeowner feels more comfortable with a particular company rather than a particular product. Installation is a very important issue with windows. Ask the company to describe the installation process. Make sure your contractor knows as much about ENERGY STAR® products and NFRC labeling as you do.

Drafty windows and air infiltration could have several causes. Improper installation is often the culprit but not always. If the windows were improperly installed, the defects can normally be corrected without removing or replacing the window. Proper caulking and flashing should prevent perimeter air leakage. However, if the installation twists or racks the window frame causing the sash weatherstrip not to be able to seal the sash to the frame, removal of the window to correct the problem may be necessary. You can determine whether the air is coming in at the joint between the frame and the house or the joint between the sash and the frame. Hold a lighted candle or lighter in front of each joint when the wind is blowing and slowly move it along the joint. If the flame flickers strongly or goes out, the joint is probably leaking. If the leak is between the frame and the sash and the window has been installed square, plumb, level and is not twisted or racked, the problem may be construction of the window or window design. If your windows are not efficient in your climate and particularly if it does not have insulated glazing, the air may not be leakage but simply cold room air flowing down the surface of the window. As the window surface becomes colder, it cools the room air next to it. This cooled room air is then heavier than the warmer room air further into the room. Because the cooled room air is heavier it sinks toward the floor and is replaced by warmer room air, which is then cooled. This process can result in noticeable air flow but it is not air leakage from the outside. Replacement of the window by an energy efficient window is the solution here.

Condensation is a direct result of interior humidity and the difference between indoor and outside air temperature. If you keep the humidity in your house low, then the likelihood of experiencing condensation is also low. However, the efficiency of your window will also impact the temperature and humidity level at which condensation occurs. Energy efficient windows will help reduce condensation. Here’s why: high performance windows with low U-factors result in inside glass surface temperatures much closer to the room air temperature. Windows with warm edge technologies and non-metal frames are also less likely to have condensation on the frame or at the edge of the glass. Insulated “superwindows” with three or more layers will virtually eliminate condensation on the interior surface of the glass — even under extreme cold weather conditions. Note that in certain conditions (humid mornings after a clear night sky), some superwindows may have dew on their outside surface. These windows are such good insulators, the dew is condensing there just like it does on an insulated wall.

You should consider replacing your windows if:

• Your windows aren’t energy efficient.
• Your wood frames are rotting.
• You get excessive amounts of condensation, fading of furniture and draperies.
• You are tired of painting and staining.
• You feel drafts while sitting near your current windows.

Low-e glass is short for low-emissivity glass. It has a very thin coat of material on the glass to make it more efficient, especially in very sunny, hot areas. It helps reflect standing heat away from the surface of the glass, keeping unwanted heat out in the summer and desired heat inside in the winter. Low-e glass is the most cost effective way to increase the efficiency of your windows. Low-e coatings can also help reduce furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that enters your home. Ultraviolet radiation can alter the chemical structure of dyes and other colorants.

Window condensation can be a natural occurrence. It can be a warning that excessive moisture is present and may cause structural deterioration and the possibility of mold growth.

Condensation on the inside of a window is a result of a higher air moisture content contacting lower temperatures on the glass. The higher the interior humidity and the lower the outside window temperature, the more condensation can occur.

Excessive interior humidity can lead to structural damage and health concerns if high moisture levels are sustained inside wall cavities. Wood rot, mold and mildew can result.

Check all sash for smooth adequate operation. Add integrated window ventilators and air exchange devices if necessary. Regularly use exhaust fans especially when showering.

Install and use a dehumidifier. Use ceiling fans to circulate air.

Open windows and doors whenever practical or possible to allow interior moisture to escape.

Windows and doors often have a simple drainage system or “weep” system designed right into the product. These water drainage pathways must be kept clear and clean for the window or door to operate correctly.

It’s normal for water to accumulate in the sill or track area with wind driven rain. The water is intended to drain to the outside as water builds up or outside pressure subsides.

Keep sill or track areas clean of dirt or debris. ¦ Make sure that outside and inside “weep” holes and sill area are kept clear of any dirt, stucco, sand, or building materials.

Use a small, soft bottlebrush to clear openings.

Windows can be vulnerable to water leakage at the corners if not properly maintained. If a crack appears, it should be sealed with a good grade of sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• DO: Clean the frame surfaces.
• DON’T: Use a razor blade, putty knife or abrasive pad.
• DO: Use a glass cleaner or mild detergent.
• DON’T: Use any petroleum-based cleaners or solvents.
• DO: Clean tracks and weepholes.
• DON’T: Use oil-based lubricants or damage weephole covers/baffles.
• DO: Check weather stripping and hardware.
• DON’T: Live with poor performing components.
• DO: Clean your insulating glass with proper cleaning agents.
• DON’T: Add attachments to window or glass without approval from the window manufacturer.
• DO: Choose certified windows and exterior glass doors.
• DON’T: Settle for products that do not meet important air, water, structural, forced entry and thermal performance standards.
• DO: Read and understand your manufacturer’s warranty and install per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Most of today’s windows are made from a frame material and an insulating glass “sandwich”-each component subject to wear, weathering, and potential failure. Weatherstripping in the frame and moving parts can wear out with use. An insulating glass panel may suffer a broken seal after years of expansion and contraction with temperature changes-creating a “fogged” look as moisture accumulates between the glass panels. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), some windows can last up to 50 years. Some of the factors that go into the determination include:

• Frame material
• Quality construction practices and building style
• Product quality
• Climate and exposure
• Routine care and maintenance
• Replacement of parts that wear with use with an AAMA Certified product that’s cared for, you can expect to increase the service life.

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association or AAMA sets all performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the window industry. When a product passes AAMA tests, you can expect long and reliable service as long as the window is installed and maintained correctly.

Two panes of glass separated by an air-space to form insulating glass.

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Even if you have metal windows we will most likely install a small metal frame in your existing window sill. By doing this we accomplish two things: #1 the metal frame is needed for the magnet to seal onto to give us the airtight seal. #2 By doing this we create a dead air space in between the two windows, which is a valuable insulator.

We put a lifetime warranty on our windows that protect you from this. If you do get some scratch’s that can not be removed we will replace the acrylic for free.

No, we will give you a highly concentrated wax at the time of install that you can use to clean the windows. You can also use pledge, or mild soap and water and a soft rag.

No, our windows are half the weight of glass and very easy to handle. We install a handle on each window that makes them easy to pop off.

Makes Your Home More Comfortable
• Completely Eliminates Drafts
• Significantly Reduces Heat Transfer Through the Windows
• Prolongs the Life of Both Your Furnace and Air Conditioner
• Reduces Fogging and Condensation
• Eliminates Icing on the Inside Window and Frame
• Safer than Glass Will Not Shatter
• 18 Times Stronger than Glass
• Increases the Value of Your Home by 100% of Your investment
• Seals Out Dust and Pollen
• Easy to Operate and Clean, No Difficult Latches or Clips
• Makes Your Home Much Quieter
• Quick Pay Back on Your Investment
• Attractive, Will Not Alter the Look of Your Existing Windows
• Will Not Interfere with the Operation of Your Existing Windows
• Easy Removal In Case of Fire or Emergency
• Available in Both White or Brown to Match Any Decor
• Warrantied for as long as you own your home