J&B Construction Examines Popular Window Features
Mar 11, 2019
“If you are considering window replacement, it’s important to keep a few specific window features in mind,” said Scott Cline, owner of J&B Construction, serving southeastern Wisconsin homeowners since 1958 as a provider of high-quality exterior home improvement products and services. “In addition to evaluating window materials and the style of windows such as casement style or double hung, homeowners should also be familiar with popular window features that address weather resistance, energy efficiency, and ease of cleaning.”
A highly beneficial form of weather resistance is window cladding or capping, which involves the process of applying one window material over another in order to protect it from the outside elements. “PVC vinyl coated aluminum is the most popular type of window cladding and the goal of this added layer of protection is to safeguard the window casing,” said Cline. This goal is achieved because the chemical properties of PVC vinyl coated aluminum allow it to easily guide moisture and wind away from the window and frame. Moreover, it removes the need for painting. Window cladding is applied directly on the exterior of a window frame or at the top of it.
Another useful window coating feature that acts as a barrier against the elements is low-emissivity (low-e) coating; however, rather than being applied to the frame like window cladding, low-e coating is applied to the glass pane itself. “Low-e coating is a microscopically thin and transparent coating that is designed to reflect heat while still allowing light to pass through the glass,” said Cline. “It keeps the temperature in your home comfortable year-round because it reflects the inside air back inside the home.” Along with maintaining indoor temperatures, low-e coating helps prevent furnishings from fading due to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
“The key to enhancing energy efficiency and noise reduction capabilities lies within double and triple glazed windows,” said Cline. Double glazed windows consist of two panes of glass and generally argon gas is secured between them. The purpose of the gas is to provide improved insulation and this feature typically comes standard. Likewise, triple glazed windows are constructed in a similar manner, except an additional pane of glass is added, resulting in two distinct gas filled spaces. The extra pane of glass contributes to energy savings as well as substantial noise reduction, which is ideal for homeowners living near busy roadways or airports.
Take single or double-hung windows with tilt-in sashes into account when thinking about easy cleaning. “Tilt-in sashes refer to the moveable part of the frame that supports the glazing and offers easy access for cleaning from inside your home without the use of a ladder,” said Cline. Additionally, windows equipped with tilt-in sashes offer increased ventilation throughout the environment. Not to mention, windows with tilt-in sashes require sturdier internal hardware, which equates to added security.
Although window cladding, low-e coating, double or triple glazing, and tilt-in slashes may not be the first features that come to mind when contemplating new windows, they are helpful when making an informed decision. “Each of these window features, whether they were designed to serve as a shield against the elements, improve energy efficiency, reduce noise, or simplify the cleaning process, exist to protect your investment,” said Cline. “These features will aid you in the window replacement process and help you feel more assured in your decision.”
J&B Construction offers exterior remodeling products and services with a focus on trust, craftsmanship, superior customer service, and care for the home. The company’s Germantown showroom, W140 N10589 Fond du Lac Ave., contains a variety of exterior home improvement product samples, including windows, siding, doors, roofing, and decking materials. As Master Elite GAF roofing contractors, J&B Construction offers the added security of a 12-year warranty, plus manufacturer warranties that range from 25 years to lifetime, depending on the product.
J&B Construction is a member of NARI Milwaukee and the Better Business Bureau. For more information on popular window features or to arrange a complimentary consultation, call J&B Construction at 262-437-0537 or visit www.jandbconstruction.com.
