Simonton Windows
Parkersburg, WV>

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How to Buy or Replace Windows

Window shopping is difficult work. There are so many choices available, decisions to make and terms to learn. Never fear, we're here to help!

How should I go about buying and replacing vinyl replacement windows and/or patio doors?

Is the wood rotting in your existing windows or patio doors? Are your aluminum windows rusting, pitting or chalking? If so, those are good signs that you may need replacement windows or patio doors. Replacing the windows or doors in your home can enhance its overall beauty, while giving your budget a boost by helping conserve costly energy.

Are you building a new home or addition? We make beautiful, energy efficient new construction windows and patio doors to help you add your own distinctive style to your house and turn it into a home.

If you're concerned that your knowledge of windows is confined to the basics of opening, closing and locking -- don't worry. That's what we're here for! By reviewing the FAQ's and other information we offer, you'll find everything you need to know to make an informed choice about new or replacement windows or doors. After all, we're just as concerned about what you put into your home as you are.

Vinyl and Glass Information

While we make windows our business, no one expects YOU to. So where do you turn when you need information about windows, parts, maintenance and performance? Turn to Simonton Windows.

The same company that brings you quality window and door products day in and day out also offers you the latest information about windows and the window industry, care and maintenance, energy savings and government programs on energy conservation.

We believe that the best customer is one withthe knowledge that there's a place they can go to find answers to questions they may not have thought of before.

So whether you're researching windows to help you decide what kind to purchase,or just looking for more information on the windows you already have, turn to us. We're here 24 hours a day, seven days a week

What Causes Condensation

Under the right conditions, condensation can occur both inside and outside your home. The source of condensation, or "sweating" on windows and mirrors inside a home is caused by humidity, or invisible water vapor, present in virtually all air. When this water vapor comes in contact with a surface, which is at a temperature below what is called the "dew point," the vapor turns to visible droplets of liquid, or condenses on the cooler surface. This often happens to bathroom mirrors and walls after someone has taken a hot shower. Condensation can also occur on windows during the winter if the inside humidity level is high enough.

When it comes to condensation outside your home, it is simply a fact of nature. Exposed to certain conditions, like a clear night sky, still air or high relative humidity, the exterior surface of the glass can radiate heat away from your home and into the night air - allowing the glass temperature to fall below the dew point of the ambient air and create condensation. Only when the glass temperature rises above the dew point will the condensation evaporate back into the air. Common examples of this is when dew forms on grass, car hoods and roofs.

We tend to notice condensation only on windows, mirrors, etc., because the glass does not absorb the excess moisture and is simply more visible there. A little condensation, or "fogging" now and then is to be expected and causes no problems. Of more concern, however, is the less visible condensation that can penetrate and collect in walls and ceilings. Excessive condensation can cause damage.

When you see consistent condensation on glass surfaces, take it as a warning that you may have an excessive humidity level in your home.

Balancing Humidity for Comfort and Condensation Prevention

Controlling the amount of moisture in the air, or humidity, is the most effective way to reduce condensation. The amount of moisture in the air is indicated by the "relative humidity" of the air. Relative humidity is the percentage of moisture in the air compared to the maximum amount it can hold. For instance, when it is raining or very foggy outside, the outdoor relative humidity would be 100%. Temperature also effects how much moisture air can hold. At 100% relative humidity, air at 60 degrees will hold three times as much water vapor as air at 30 degrees Fahrenheit. As temperatures drop during the winter, the air can not hold as much moisture as before and condensation will occur unless the relative humidity level is lowered.

The following chart illustrates the maximum recommended levels of moisture in interior air for different outside temperatures. You can check the relative humidity levels in your home using a hygrometer, an electronic humidity gage or a sling psychrometer. Follow instructions carefully, because a reading in the middle of a room will yield a different result than a reading taken near windows. Once you've determined the humidity level in your home you can take appropriate actions.

What is the ENERGY STAR Progam?

ENERGY STAR is an independent U.S. Government program establishing a standard set of guidelines to recognize the energy efficiency of various products. In the home building and remodeling industry, ENERGY STAR guidelines are used in conjunction with a variety of building materials, including windows and patio doors.

Studies have shown that over 40% of a typical home's annual energy budget is consumed by Doors and windows. ENERGY STAR labeled Doors and windows are twice as efficient as those manufactured just ten years ago, and they are 40% more efficient than products manufactured using common building code guidelines.*

What Window And Door Features Are Recognized By ENERGY STAR?

For Doors and windows, ENERGY STAR guidelines assess the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).

• The U-factor is commonly described as the amount of heat transferred through a material. The lower the U-factor, the slower the rate of heat flow and the better the insulating quality.
  

• The SHGC refers to the amount of heat from the sun that Doors and windows allow into the home. The lower the number, the greater the ability to reduce the amount of heat absorbed into the home.

Are ENERGY STAR Guidelines The Same Across The Country?

Because the United States covers such a large area, ENERGY STAR guidelines have been tailored to meet specific climate considerations in four regions of the country. This four-zone ENERGY STAR system has increased its requirements to obtain improved energy performance in many parts of the country.