Monday, July 29, 2013

Simply Buying From Replacement Windows

By Wanda Henderson


Anyone focused on renovating their home is generally faced with a tremendous number of options and stresses and work through. Many of the challenges that people deal with are based on the obligation to ensure that all parts of their living space are modernized and able to reflect current standards of use on a regular basis. People that are interested in this particular option should know the basics of deciding from replacement windows to ensure they are able to keep their expenses as low as possible on a monthly basis.

Windows that are used in the home creation process are designed to provide protection from weather elements while also creating a source of light for any room in which they are used. Consumers are generally interested in this project effort when trying to ensure their energy costs are reduced while providing a more modernized living space in the process. Selections are usually quite difficult for people to make on a multitude of levels.

Consumers focused on this particular project often discover a wealth of options available to consider. Retailers and manufacturers are quite similar in regard to what they offer which can create confusion when trying to make sure that all choices are made in a consolidated and productive manner. Concentrating on several key factors is quite helpful in being able to narrow down the options.

Consumers are encouraged to concentrate their preliminary attention on completing a product comparison. The leading brands are often unfamiliar to consumers which can generate confusion as to which ones offer the best features and qualities over the others. The pages that offer this insight are usually quite vast and free to access for anyone in need.

The dimensions that are required for replacement should also be carefully focused on. Proper dimensions are generally based on the need to ensure that any process is actually able to be appropriately managed for the sake of thoroughness. Consumers even often have their dimensions taken by a trained professional to ensure they are completed in an accurate manner.

Energy star ratings should receive consideration as well when making this choice. The energy star qualifications that are set forth with this part of the home are designed to offer insight into how much consumption is able to be reduced when having the new units installed which is a major concern of most owners today. The highest numeric ratings are typically the units that should be focused on the most in this effort.

Screen solutions should also be considered when making this selection. The type of screen that is used over any window is known to create quite a bit of attention when making sure additional protection is offered to the living space while creating added cost savings. Solar and decorative options are now readily available and should be carefully reviewed.

Replacement windows should only be chosen if they are affordable. Paying for this kind of product is actually quite challenging when being assured that all renovation budgets are managed and kept fully intact. The lowest prices for the highest energy star rating are often what generate the most interest from owners.




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Thursday, July 18, 2013

Window Types

By Mark Daniels


Window Frame Types Timber, PVC and metal are three common frame materials used in domestic windows. Here we consider some troublesome issues with each, and examine possible solutions.

Timber was always the traditional choice for window frames and remains a popular contemporary choice, especially for double glazing. Hardwood is the more durable option though treated softwood is also used. Regular maintenance, and weatherproofing every five years with paint or wood stain, should avoid timber defects and guarantee a long serviceable life.

Wet rot is a common problem with older windows. Poor maintenance can lead to shrinkage and cracks in putty seals causing rainwater leaks, and leaky guttering above can also cause rainwater penetration. In either event, the result is wet rot which will require urgent attention to prevent further decay.

The simple solution is a resin repair where the rot is scraped away, built up with a resin layer, sanded and repainted. Larger rotted sections can be treated by cutting away the bad section and then splicing in new wood, though the glass and frame must come out to achieve this. Where the stability and strength of the frame has been compromised, the remaining, and most expensive, option is replacement with a new timber frame.

Alterations to Building Regulations, requiring double glazing to be fitted in both new homes and extensions, have made PVC the preferred choice for window frames in the last two decades. They have been marketed as an affordable, energy-saving product requiring no maintenance beyond installation. In reality, double glazing often develops condensation problems over time when moisture penetrates the seals and seeps into the void between the glass plates. New glass, with fresh seals, can be fitted into the frames to remedy this.

Actually, first-generation PVC windows quickly developed a faded and discoloured look, when exposed to sunlight, because of the use of lead in their manufacture. Current, state-of-the-art, PVC windows are a considerable improvement, displaying greater condensation resistance and impressive energy-saving performance.

Metal frames first became fashionable with the introduction of the curved 'suntrap', or 'Crittall' windows of the 1920's 'art deco' period. However, with the exception of a few architectural specimens, most of these single-glaze windows have long since been replaced because of inferior thermal insulation and consequent issues with condensation. Metal frames can twist and buckle if subjected to structural distress and the resultant distortion brings about malfunctioning of handles and hinges, along with scuffed frame surfaces and ill-fitting windows. Rust can corrode and damage frames if water comes into contact with unprotected metal surfaces. Acid or abrasive material will remove minor rust damage but more serious corrosion will require the damaged section to be replaced with new metal.

The latest development in modern windows is the introduction of aluminium frames. These are stronger and thinner than other metal frames, facilitating and encouraging new design possibilities beyond the limits imposed by other types of frame material. Nevertheless, rapid heat transfer through the frames, caused by aluminium's high conductivity, requires the insertion of a 'thermal break' isolating the inner and outer frames to prohibit the formation of condensation.




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