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Replacement Windows FAQ

What You Need To Know Before Choosing Replacement Windows.

Conserving energy starts with the proper window.

Choosing the right window package for your home is the key to having a comfortable home in any season. Simonton and PlyGem offer window packages with a variety of insulation levels, coatings, spacers, and gas fills. The experts at Alcor will consider a variety of your home's environmental and design factors before making recommendations for your new windows.

Before looking at window styles, it's important to make a decision on the glass "package" for your home. Choosing the right glass package for weather and environmental factors is key to reaping the most benefits from our ultra-efficient window and door selections.

 


 

4 Questions to Answer Before You Buy New Windows:

Low-E coated glass

1. What is Low-E coated glass?

Low-E coatings reflect infrared light. When applied to windows, it helps keep the heat outside in the summer and inside in the winter. It can also reduce the damage to textiles, photos and artwork that would otherwise fade due to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Both PlyGem and Simonton Windows offer Low-E coated window options.

 


 

 dual-page and triple-pane windows

2. Should I get dual-page or triple-pane windows?

Traditional windows used to mean a single pane of glass in a window frame, followed by a sliding glass storm window or sliding screen. New, energy-efficient windows use multiple panes within a sealed frame to keep the elements out. 

 

Dual-pane Windows
Dual-pane Windows:

Dual-pane (or double-pane) windows have 2 pieces of glass with air or gas between the two panes creating a sealed insulating unit. Choose from 3/4", 7/8", or 1" widths. Dual-pane windows can reduce heating costs by up to 50% over traditional single-pane windows, they are the required standard in Canada due to the harsh weather conditions. 

Triple-pane Windows
Triple-pane Windows:
Triple-pane windows feature a single strength pane surrounded by two double-strength panes. This design creates a 1" insulating glass unit. Triple-pane windows are the most energy-efficient option on the market and are safe and extremely durable. 

Impact-resistant Laminated Glass
Impact-resistant Laminated Glass:

Impact-resistant laminated glass consists of a durable interlayer sandwiched between two layers of glass that offer increased safety, sound control, UV protection, and energy efficiency. This type of glass can be used to withstand the harsh winds and debris caused by a hurricane and is often used in Florida for this reason. 

 


 

3. What the difference between Argon and Krypton gas?

Argon gas

Argon gas is six times denser than air. When sealed between two pieces of glass in your insulated window, it helps reduce the temp transfer.

Krypton gas

Krypton gas is denser than Argon. This increase in density maximizes energy efficiency by reducing the temperature transfer even more.

 


 

4. How are the window panes kept apart in insulated windows?

Insulated windows utilize a U-channel designed to keep glass warmer, holds the panes in place and allows some flexing and contraction for reduced seal failure.

Intercept
Intercept:
Cost effective, most widely used

Supercept
Supercept:
Similar to the Intercept, but made of stainless steel for improved durability and thermal efficiency.

Super Spacer
Super Spacer:
Utilizes non-conductive, non-metallic foam and provides a tighter seal for increased energy efficiency.

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