How to Tell if a Window is a Quality Window

There are a lot of options out there when you are in the market for new windows. Whether you are building a new home or doing some upgrades to your existing home, it’s important to make the right choice when it comes to your windows. The task of figuring out which ones are the right ones can be a little overwhelming so we’ve listed a few areas you should focus on when you’re on the hunt.

The Frame:

The framework of a window is what surrounds and supports the entire window system. At Access, we design our windows with a 6 chambered frame. This means our customers receive excellent thermal insulation. Our windows achieve U-values as low as 0.13. U-value measures the rate of heat transfer; the lower the U-value the more energy efficient the product is.

The Glass:

The glass isn’t just there to look nice. It should be serving a very important purpose as well. There are a number of options when it comes to glass so it’s important to do your research when it comes to this part of your window. Our windows are made with triple pane glass with double Low-E soft and double argon. Low-E glass is low emissivity glass, this means it’s coated to keep out the infrared rays, while still allowing light to shine through. This features helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

The Profile:

We use the RAU-FIPRO profile core on all of our windows. This helps to achieve stability and torsional rigidity making it possible to build larger windows without the typical steel reinforcement that can compromise thermal insulation. GPS foam chamber inserts can be used when steel is not required to further reduce heat loss.

Installation:

Installation is incredibly important. You can have the best windows but if they are installed poorly, you could have ongoing problems for years, causing more damage then you may realize. If it’s not level, the window won’t operate properly, if it’s not sealed properly, you will have leaks. Talk to your window consultant about who they recommend to install the windows for you, to ensure it’s done right the first time.

In the end the decision is yours on what style, or company you want to go with. Windows can be one of the largest expenses when it comes to your home so making a decision you are comfortable with is the right direction. Make sure you have done your research and know what you are looking for when it comes to the right windows for your home. Our team is available for any questions you may have about our windows and the way we manufacture our designs.