Why should I buy custom replacement windows?
It seems that every existing window varies a little in size. Custom vinyl replacement windows are manufactured to fit perfectly. Stock windows, like those used by builders or sold in lumberyards, are available only in certain sizes. Since many window openings are not the same "standard" size as stock windows, you could be left with several inches of open space around the entire window. Carpenters generally will fill this space with gypsum board, insulation or molding. This not only reduces your viewing area and detracts from your home's beauty, but you have extra wall space to patch, paint and decorate. Custom windows are designed, engineered, and manufactured to fit your home's size, style, and appearance without reducing your viewing area.

What is a "typical installation"?
A “typical installation” is removing the old wooden window from inside the home. The interior trim is removed, the old window is taken out, and the new window is inserted, insulated and caulked. The existing trim is put back on. If you are replacing aluminum or steel windows, there will be a small additional installation charge since it is a bit more difficult to get your old windows out.

What do I have to do to prepare for the installation?
Prior to our arrival, move all furniture, window treatments and anything else that would hinder our workman getting to your windows. We can assist with heavy furniture items as necessary.

How long will the total installation take?
For an average job (10-20 windows), the inside installation takes one to two days.
What damage or repairs should I expect from the installation?
There should be no wall damage. When we reinstall the interior trim casing on each new window there will be some finish nail holes that may need to be filled and touched up with paint.

How will the outside of the windows be finished?
Typically, during installation of your new windows, all exterior wood casing is covered or wrapped with a custom fit aluminum trim to match your new windows or existing trim color.

What maintenance is needed for the new windows?
Unlike other windows, your new Windows America vinyl windows are maintenance free other than the normal washing. And remember, the double hung windows have sashes that tilt inside so you can wash both the inside as well as the outside of the windows from inside your home.

Do I have to arrange for disposal of the old windows?
No. Unless you want the old windows, we will take away the old windows and dispose of them. As well, we clean up all the debris from the job site.

Do I have to be home during the installation?
We would prefer that the homeowner be home during the installation of your new windows. However a friend or relative could fill in if it does not meet with your scheduling. We do request that you be present at the completion of the project so you can inspect the work, receive directions on the usage of your new windows and answer any questions that you may have.

What is a united inch (u.i.)?
United inches are the sum of the width and height measurements. (i.e.: If window is 28" wide and 53" in height, it is 81 united inches). To determine the approximate united inches of a window, measure the height, measure the width, and add the two together. United inches are NOT square inches.

What is fusion welding?
Fusion welding is the latest technology in window construction. It utilizes intense heat and specialized equipment to bond the corners of all four sides of a window's sash and frame into a single unit. Fusion welding results in a stronger, more stable window. It's more energy efficient because the corners remain fused and airtight for the life of the window. Fusion welding also results in a more attractive, seamless welds with clean and smooth corners without bulky "flashing" or overlap caused by old fashion manufacturing techniques. Fusion welding is the only process that can insure your windows will not leak at the corner. With other windows, “rotting sills” is a major problem.

What does Low E stand for?
Low E is a non-visible, microscopic layer of silver coating added to glass for greater energy efficiency and increased comfort. Low E stands for "low emissivity", which is the action of reflecting light passing through glass. By reflecting part of the light spectrum (the part that transmits heat), we reduce a window's U-Value and increase its R-Value, making the window more efficient and saving you money in reduced heating and a/c bills. Windows America does not recommend purchasing windows that do not have the Low-E coating on its glass.

What do U-values and R-values really mean?
U-Values represents the amount of heat that escapes through a wall, window, roof or other surface. The lower the U-Value, the more energy efficient a material is. R-Values are the direct opposite. These measure an object's resistance to heat flow. The higher a material's R-Value, the lower its U-Value, and the less energy it will lose. An R-Value depends on the number of layers of glass in a window, what type of gas is between those layers, and whether one or more of those layers of glazing have been treated with a Low E coating.

What is a U-factor?
The U-factor is a standard measure of heat transfer through an entire window unit. The methods for measuring U-factor ratings were developed by the National Fenestration Rating Counsel (NFRC) at the request of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Federal Trade Commission. The U-factor tells you how much heat would escape through the entire window unit in winter, and how much of your air-conditioning would leak out during the summer. The lower the U-factor, the better the window's insulating ability. (A window's U-factor is the reciprocal of it's R-factor, they both measure it's insulating ability. Look for windows with low U-factors and high R-factors.)

What is an R-factor and how important is it?
"R" stands for resistance. The higher the R-factor, the greater the amount of insulation a window provides. The R-factor rating of a window frame and glass is very important since it directly affects the cost of heating and cooling your home.