How Do I Choose a Window ?

Choosing a window really depends on the customer’s objectives. A homeowner who occupies their home may have different window objectives than a contractor building a spec house or an apartment building. A window’s quality, price and features play a key role in determining value to the customer. Following are some points to consider when selecting a window and installer:

How Do I Choose a Window Installer ?

First and foremost, the installer should be a licensed contractor with the state of California. Contact the Contractor’s State License Board to verify license status and to ensure the company does not have significant unresolved complaints. Select a company with a proven track record of experience. Faulty installation can be disastrous. Companies that have been in business for a long time often demonstrate experience and stability. An experienced local company is familiar with the local building structures and codes. Many horror stories have been told of customers hiring non-local companies and then never seeing them again. If a problem arises, the customer is tasked with obtaining a contractor or other window company willing to take on a problem of another company. References from others, of course, are important.

What Types of Windows are Available?

Windows are most commonly available in vinyl, wood and aluminum.

Vinyl windows have become increasingly popular in coastal areas over the last 20 years. Vinyl windows are resistant to corrosion, energy efficient, require little maintenance, significantly reduce condensation and noise, often have very good warranties and are relatively inexpensive.

The beauty and color versatility of wood windows sometimes makes us forget how much work is required to maintain them. Painting or staining is required every few years or more often if closer to the ocean. Some wood window manufacturers apply a vinyl or aluminum cladding (covering) to the outside window framing to protect it from the outdoor elements. This allows the consumer the beauty of a wood window on the inside while reducing the otherwise high maintenance of a standard wood window. Unfortunately, these products can be quite expensive as compared to vinyl or aluminum windows.

Aluminum windows have a narrower frame, which is sometimes desirable from an aesthetics standpoint. They tend to have more color versatility than do vinyl windows, although aluminum paint may peel and chip as a result of the outdoor salt-air elements. Because aluminum is a “colder” material, it does have a reputation for forming condensation. Many customers complain of mold; this is particularly common with the old “single-paned” aluminum windows. Aluminum windows have become less popular on the coast as they do corrode over time and many times have limited warranties. With the development of vinyl technology, Dial Glass and Window Company does not recommend aluminum windows on beachfront properties.

What Should I Know about Window Manufacturers ?

It’s important that the window manufacturer has a quality reputation and has been in business for a long time. This indicates stability to help ensure that parts or additional products will be available, if needed, and that any warranty provided will be serviced by the manufacturer in the future. Question your window dealer, obtain brochures and/or visit manufacturer’s website to learn about the manufacturer and window products offered. Customers can contact the Department of Consumer Affairs and inquire about potential complaints against the window manufacturer.

What about a Warranty ?

Ensure that your window product is warranted against defects. Learn about the warranty features, including the period of warranty, the potential defects covered and how defect are rectified. If possible, ask your window dealer for a copy of the warranty terms. The most common defect in windows today is the seal breaking in an insulated glass unit and condensation (or “fogging”) appearing between the panes of glass. If not covered under warranty, this glass can be a bit pricey to replace. The better warranties will offer coverage for both parts and labor, a longer coverage period, such as a “lifetime” to the original purchaser, and some extra features. Some manufacturers provide “transferable” or “glass breakage” warranty features. A transferable feature acts as a good selling point to a potential homebuyer, as the warranty features can be transferred to a buyer. A glass breakage warranty can save a customer the pricey cost of replacing broken window glass in many instances.

What is Is Energy Efficiency?

A number of window attributes, starting with the manufacture of the window product, contribute to the energy efficiency of the window. Most windows in today’s market have insulated (or double-paned) glass which is a basic component to better insulation and higher energy efficiency. Other common features applied in the industry to increase energy efficiency are “Low E” coatings on the glass and “Argon Gas” fill between the panes of glass. Big name warehouse stores many times offer an inexpensive off-the-shelf window. Often times, these inexpensive “cheap” windows are not energy efficient. The United States Department of Energy has established “Energy Star” guidelines that products should meet to be considered energy efficient. Ask your window dealer if the window meets the Energy Star standards.

Don't Forget Aesthetics:

When choosing a window, consider the aesthetics. Remember, not all windows are the same. General window styles include horizontal sliding, vertical sliding (or single hung), fixed picture, casement (crank out), bay window and garden window. Look for “even sight lines”, where the framing looks proportionate relative to other section(s) of the window. Patterned glass or grids (squares) on or between the glass add decorative attributes to windows. Most manufacturers have several options in glass and grids, but be careful. The architecture of the building will determine whether decorative glass or grids are appropriate.

Other Features to Consider:

The coastal areas are conducive to corrosion where vinyl windows have demonstrated resistance. Some manufacturers offer a coastal package to further reduce corrosive effects. Features may include stainless steel rollers, locks and handles on patio doors. Newer technology provides the customer with the option of ordering “self-cleaning” glass. A permanent coating is infused onto the glass, which keeps dirt loose. With water, the window rinses clean.

Self-Cleaning Glass

Pete Yoes of Pacifica's Dial Glass and Window Company discusses newer technology in window glass, SunClean self-cleaning glass by PPG Glass Technologies. Since 1883, PPG Glass Technologies has been making glass and advanced in window technology, such as Sungate low-e glass and Solarban solar control low-e glass.

SunClean self-cleaning glass allows the homeowner to spend less time washing their windows while giving their windows a clearer view. SunClean glass has a durable, transparent coating that is bonded to the outer surface of the glass during the glass manufacturing process. The coating utilizes two natural resources to initiate and maintain SunClean Glass' self-cleaning feature__the sun's ultraviolet rays and water.

The ultraviolet light from the sun energizes the SunClean self-cleaning glass coating to help slowly decompose and loosen dirt and other organic material. Since ultraviolet light is abundant, even on cloudy days or in shaded areas, this process works non-stop throughout the day. The loosened dirt and other material then easily rinse away in water. Without the SunClean coating, water normally beads up and causes water spots once dry. The SunClean coating makes water droplets spread out, or sheet, accross the surface of the glass. When rain or a light spray of water then hit the window glass, the water helps to more effectively rinse away loosened dirt and matter. The sheeting action helps the window glass to dry quickly with minimal spotting and streaking.

For more information on SunClean self-cleaning glass or windows in general, please feel free to contact Dial Glass and Window Company, located at 1704 Palmetto Avenue, Pacifica at (650) 359-5380.

Dial Glass & Window Company
1704 Palmetto Avenue, Pacifica    |   Phone 650-359-5380