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special section | WINDOWS & DOORS
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“Replacing old windows will pay for itself over a period of seven
or eight years in energy savings,” Hill says, adding that all Clear
Choice USA windows are Energy Star qualified.
When selecting windows, look for Low-E glass, a special glass
coating designed to reflect infrared light, keeping heat outside in
the summer and inside in the winter. It also reflects ultraviolet
light to protect interior furnishings. Dual glass panes insulate better
than single.
Most large window and door companies offer energy-efficient
options. And local companies are offering products with this benefit
as well. McCullough says Adooring Designs’ iron doors are filled
with expandable foam, making them extremely energy efficient, as
well as beautiful. “The doors also can incorporate double-pane windows
with low-E glass,” he says.
MATERIALS
Durable windows come in a variety of material options, from wood
and vinyl to aluminum and fiberglass.
Wood windows are prone to less condensation, and work well in
historic homes. Wood can be painted or stained. Vinyl windows are
durable, usually cost less that wood and are energy efficient.
Aluminum windows are generally less expensive, but are not as
energy efficient. Fiberglass windows are relatively new to the market,
but are among the most energy-efficient windows available
because they don’t warp, shrink or rot. Doors also come in vinyl,
wood and fiberglass options.
house& home | August 2008 | house andhomeonline.com
ABOVE: Marvin Windows and Doors’ Vented Picture Window
combines the beauty of a picture window with the opportunity
for cross ventilation.
“We have fiberglass doors that look like wood,” Plummer says.
“They hold up longer and you never have to worry about having to
restain or paint them once they are installed.”
Clear Choice USA offers wood, aluminum and vinyl windows,
which come in a variety of colors to match your home. “We offer
painted vinyl in 12 standard colors and for an upgrade, you can get
a custom color,” Hill says.
PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION AND WARRANTY
After selecting your windows and doors, it’s important to have them
installed properly. Plummer suggests having them installed by a certified
professional rather than doing it yourself. “You can have the
most energy-efficient windows, but if they aren’t installed properly,
you can still have air leakage,” he adds.
Hill agrees that installation is a key factor. “We don’t offer a lifetime
warranty unless we do the installation,” he says.
Also pay attention to window and door warranties. All companies
have different offerings, so you must read the fine print. “Most of our
vinyl windows have a 50 year or more warranty,” Hill says.
Once you consider the look, energy efficiency and material choices,
sit back and enjoy your high-performing, beautiful new windows
and doors that will save you a bundle when it matters most.