Getting Started

Windows protect the interior of the building from the weather outside and maintain the comfort of the occupants. Considered the “eyes” of the building, windows provide views to the outside, and an impression of the inside. The size, style, material of construction, and features of windows will reflect the lifestyle of the building owners. Windows will provide security and reduce the noise levels of the outside, and transference of noise from the inside out.

What Weather Zone is the Home Located In? Windows are rated for energy efficiency to maintain the comfort level of the occupants, and to reduce energy consumption. By knowing the Weather Zone, the appropriate type of window can be chosen. Hurricane Zones require special glass in the window to resist breaking in high winds.

Which Way is the Window Facing? North, South, East, or West? East facing will receive morning light; West facing — late afternoon sunshine, which is the hottest part of the day. South facing means sun will shine through most of the day, while North facing windows may not receive sunlight. In the same house, windows oriented to the various directions may require different windows, such as ones with low solar heat gain coefficients on South and West facing, while higher SHGC will work on North facing windows.

Does the Window Receive Shading from Trees, Other Buildings, or Awnings? Again, by blocking the sun’s rays into the window, less demand is placed on the glazing to block damaging UV rays.

If the house has an historic architectural style, matching the existing windows may be necessary. Exterior architectural elements may be reflected in the style of the window; classical double-hung windows will not be appropriate in a Modern or Contemporary Home. Understand the style of the building when choosing the style of the window.Do the Windows Need to Represent a Specific Architectural Style?

Window Terms

New construction windows are manufactured with a fin around the frame for attaching the window to the building sheathing.

Replacement windows are secured to the opening by a fastening system designed into the frame.

Glazing refers to the transparent material, pane of glass, used in windows, or the process of securing the glass to the sash and frame.

Sash is the material around the glass that secures it into the frame.

Frame is the system of vertical — jamb — and horizontal pieces that hold the sash and connect the sash to the building.

Tilt-Wash describes the window design that provides for one sash to pivot in the frame so it tilts inside for ease of cleaning.

Casing is the material surrounding the window system that covers the joints of the frame and the opening of the building to which the frame is attached. The casing can be shaped in decorative or simple designs.

Muntin is the vertical and horizontal strip holding several panes of glass into the sash.

Low -E glass is constructed with a thin coating of metal that reduces solar gain and blocks ultra-violet rays. The sun’s rays provide increased heat and light that may fade materials. By including Low-E glass in the window system, heat and cold outside are reflected back into the environment and heat and cold inside are reflected back into the structure.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC factor found on window labels) is the number given by an independent testing agency on the amount of solar heat that passes through the window system.

U-Factor is the measure of the rate of heat loss in a window system, glazing, spacers and frame. The lower the number, the more energy-efficient the unit.

NFRC label found on windows is a representation of the energy efficiency of windows, doors and skylights. The National Fenestration Rating Council is a nonprofit organization that registers independent testing results to assist consumers in choose the appropriate product for each installation.

Energy Star Rating: Replacement Windows must achieve a specific rating from a third-party certified test to receive an Energy Star Rating. The Environmental Protection Agency has set standards for this rating to reduce energy consumption in the United States.

Window Types

Operable windows open and close.

Inoperable are fixed and will not open.

Single pane windows have one sheet of glass in the sash. Single pane windows are used in buildings in which energy-efficiency is not an issue. The least expensive option due to the relatively few materials required to construct it.

Double pane windows have two sheets of glass in the sash with a spacer inserted between the glass panes. This area may be filled with an inert gas to provide energy-efficiency. Double pane windows are more energy efficient than single pane and are required in certain areas of the world defined by the Building Codes. Also, double pane windows will reduce some of the noise transmission between outside and inside. Double pane windows are more expensive than single pane due to the amount of materials and more complex system to construct.

Triple pane windows have three sheets of glass with spacers inserted between the panes and often an inert gas inserted in both areas. This will increase the energy-efficiency of the window and reduce the noise transmission Note that triple pane windows are heavier than double pane windows and are more secure than single and double pane. The extra construction and increased use of materials may require an extra expense.

Window Styles

Single-Hung Window - Two sashes are installed in the frame but only one is operable. Some manufacturers will hinge the sash inward for ease of cleaning the exterior.

Double-Hung Window - Both sashes will operate to open the unit, allowing fresh air to circulate through the room. Many manufacturers design the sashes to tilt into the room for ease of cleaning the exterior.

Casement - A single sash is hinged to the frame on the side and usually opens inward.

Awning  - A single or several sash(es) top hinged to the frame open outward to provide circulation but protection from precipitation.

Hopper - A single sash is hinged to the bottom of the frame and opens inward for air circulation.

Sliders - One or more sashes move horizontally on an upper and a lower track in the frame to provide air circulation.

Picture Window - A large single pane of inoperable glass will be configured with casement, single-hung or double-hung windows on each side. Picture windows are a focal point for a store front or home, permitting ventilation with the side units.

Bay Window - A unit composed of several windows assembled at an angle from each other protruding from the building. The windows used in creating the unit can be single-hung, double-hung, or casements. Bay windows may have a bench where they are attached at the wall, or may be walk-out units, running the full length of the wall.

Bow Window  - A unit composed of several windows assembled at slight angles to form a semi-circular protrusion from the building. The windows used in creating the unit can be single-hung, double-hung, or casements. Bow windows may have a bench where they are attached at the wall, or may be walk-out units, running the full length of the wall.

Glass Block - Transparent or translucent glass blocks are adhered to a frame. The unit is inoperable unless a separate glass panel is installed into the window, such as a hopper or awning window. A basement glass block window may have a dryer vent installed. These windows provide privacy and security due to the thickness of the individual glass blocks used.

Accent - Smaller windows in a variety of shapes may be operable or inoperable. Accent windows may be used in combination with double-hung or casements or as stand-alone pieces providing sunlight and/or ventilation into the space.

Frame Material

Wood: The traditional material for frames and sashes, wood provides a thermally efficient frame that is durable. Using wood construction offers the ability to change colors and when well maintained, a long life for the unit.

Wood Clad: The window is constructed of wood with a metal or vinyl cladding on the exterior to protect the unit from weather conditions. The interior part of the window retains the wood for purposes of aesthetics. Cladding requires less maintenance and is available in an array of colors.

Vinyl: Polyvinyl chloride is extruded into frames that are constructed with hollow spaces to slow temperature transfer for energy efficiency. Low maintenance, vinyl is available in an array of colors for aesthetic purposes. Colors are integral to the vinyl so scratching the exterior will not show as the color is throughout the material.

Aluminum: While metal will conduct heat/cooling more quickly than other materials, thermal breaking in the construction of aluminum windows can make them as energy efficient as other materials. Used most frequently in commercial buildings.

Fiberglass and composites: Fiberglass frames are strong, making them useful for triple-pane windows, and are energy efficient. “Pultruded with or without resins and about 60 percent or more glass, they are considered “green.” Frames can look like wood, and can be painted.

Veneers: Vinyl windows may be finished with a wood veneer on the inside portions of the sash and frame to offer the aesthetics of wood with the low maintenance of frame materials.

Price Considerations

Size - the size of the window plays an important factor in the cost of the window. As the size of the window increases, usually, the cost increases, but other factors go into the cost — not just the size. When creating a large unit, such as a bow or bay window, several windows are formed into the window, adding to the cost.

Glazing - The type of glass, such as Low-E or tempered glass, will increase the price, as will double and triple pane units.

Type - Double pane and triple pane windows cost more than single pane windows. Operable are more expensive than inoperable. The more pieces that go into construction of the unit, the more expensive the window.

Style - Picture, bow and bay windows are more expensive than a simple double hung due to the creation of the larger units.

Material - Wood window frames can be the most expensive, especially if hard woods such as oak are used. The price attached to fiberglass frames can be comparable to wood. Vinyl and aluminum frames are the least costly, but add an interior veneer for aesthetics and the price increases.

Features - Manufacturers create windows with decorative glazing or integral mullions, which will add to the price of the window unit.

Getting Started

When choosing windows for a new home or addition, the first thought usually is the architectural style of the building. The window design is integral to the look of the home; but several other considerations should be evaluated. Windows provide a barrier between the occupants of the building and the outside climate and elements. While windows provide a view to the outside, they also invite sunlight into the structure.

What to Consider

What are the Building Codes for the area? Many locales will have formal building codes that determine the requirements for windows. Energy efficiency to reduce energy consumption is a major consideration. By knowing the Weather Zone, the appropriate type of window can be chosen. Hurricane Zones require special glass in the window to resist breaking in high winds.

Which Way is the Window Facing? North, South, East, or West?  East facing will receive morning light; West facing — late afternoon sunshine, which is the hottest part of the day. South facing means sun will shine through most of the day, while North facing windows may not receive sunlight. In the same house, windows oriented to the various directions may require different windows, such as ones with low solar heat gain coefficients on South and West facing, while higher SHGC will work on North facing windows.

Does the Window Receive Shading from Trees, Other Buildings, or Awnings? Again, by blocking the sun’s rays into the window, less demand is placed on the glazing to block damaging UV rays.

Do the Windows Need to Represent a Specific Architectural Style? If the house has an historic architectural style, matching the existing windows may be necessary. Exterior architectural elements may be reflected in the style of the window; classical double-hung windows will not be appropriate in a Modern or Contemporary Home. Understand the style of the building when choosing the style of the window.

Window Terms

New construction windows are manufactured with a fin around the frame for attaching the window to the framing system designed into the building.  

Replacement windows are secured to the opening by a fastening system designed into the frame.

Glazing refers to the transparent material, pane of glass, used in windows, or the process of securing the glass to the sash and frame

Sash is the material around the glass that secures it into the frame.

Frame is the system of vertical — jamb — and horizontal pieces that hold the sash and connect the sash to the building.

Tilt-Wash describes the window design that provides for one sash to pivot in the frame so it tilts inside for ease of cleaning.

Casing is the material surrounding the window system that covers the joints of the frame and the opening of the building to which the frame is attached. The casing can be shaped in decorative or simple designs.

Muntin is the vertical and horizontal strip holding several panes of glass into the sash.

Low -E glass is constructed with a thin coating of metal that reduces solar gain and blocks ultra-violet rays. The sun’s rays provide increased heat and light that may fade materials. By including Low-E glass in the window system, heat and cold outside are reflected back into the environment and heat and cold inside are reflected back into the structure.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC factor found on window labels) is the number given by an independent testing agency on the amount of solar heat that passes through the window system.

U-Factor is the measure of the rate of heat loss in a window system, glazing,  spacers and frame. The lower the number, the more energy-efficient the unit.

NFRC label found on windows is a representation of the energy efficiency of windows, doors and skylights. The National Fenestration Rating Council is a nonprofit organization that registers independent testing results to assist consumers in choose the appropriate product for each installation.

Energy Star Rating: Replacement Windows must achieve a specific rating from a third-party certified test to receive an Energy Star Rating.  The Environmental Protection Agency has set standards for this rating to reduce energy consumption in the United States.

Window Styles

Single-Hung Window—Two sashes are installed in the frame but only one is operable. Some manufacturers will hinge the sash inward for ease of cleaning the exterior.

Double-Hung Window—Both sashes will operate to open the unit, allowing fresh air to circulate through the room.  Many manufacturers design the sashes to tilt into the room for ease of cleaning the exterior.

Casement — A single sash is hinged to the frame on the side and usually opens inward.

Awning — A single or several sash(es) top hinged to the frame open outward to provide circulation but protection from precipitation.

Hopper — A single sash is hinged to the bottom of the frame and opens inward for air circulation.

Sliders — One or more sashes move horizontally on an upper and a lower track in the frame to provide air circulation.

Picture Window — A large single pane of inoperable glass will be configured with casement, single-hung or double-hung windows on each side. Picture windows are a focal point for a store front or home, permitting ventilation with the side units.

Bay Window — A unit composed of several windows assembled at an angle from each other protruding from the building. The windows used in creating the unit can be single-hung, double-hung, or casements. Bay windows may have a bench where they are attached at the wall, or may be walk-out units, running the full length of the wall.

Bow Window — A unit composed of several windows assembled at slight angles to form a semi-circular protrusion from the building. The windows used in creating the unit can be single-hung, double-hung, or casements. Bow windows may have a bench where they are attached at the wall, or may be walk-out units, running the full length of the wall.

Glass Block — Transparent or translucent glass blocks are adhered to a frame. The unit is inoperable unless a separate glass panel is installed into the window, such as a hopper or awning window. A basement glass block window may have a dryer vent installed. These windows provide privacy and security due to the thickness of the individual glass blocks used.

Accent — Smaller windows in a variety of shapes may be operable or inoperable. Accent windows may be used in combination with double-hung or casements or as stand-alone pieces providing sunlight and/or ventilation into the space. 

Frame Materials

Wood: The traditional material for frames and sashes, wood provides a thermally efficient frame that is durable. Using wood construction offers the ability to change colors and when well maintained, a long life for the unit.

Wood Clad: The window is constructed of wood with a metal or vinyl cladding on the exterior to protect the unit from weather conditions. The interior part of the window retains the wood for purposes of aesthetics. Cladding requires less maintenance and is available in an array of colors.

 Vinyl: Polyvinyl chloride is extruded into frames that are constructed with hollow spaces to slow temperature transfer for energy efficiency. Low maintenance, vinyl is available in an array of colors for aesthetic purposes. Colors are integral to the vinyl so scratching the exterior will not show as the color is throughout the material.

Aluminum: While metal will conduct heat/cooling more quickly than other materials, thermal breaking in the construction of aluminum windows can make them as energy efficient as other materials. Used most frequently in commercial buildings.

Fiberglass and composites: Fiberglass frames are strong, making them useful for triple-pane windows, and are energy efficient. “Pultruded with or without resins and about 60 percent or more glass, they are considered “green.”  Frames can look like wood, and can be painted.

Veneers: Vinyl windows may be finished with a wood veneer on the inside portions of the sash and frame to offer the aesthetics of wood with the low maintenance of the vinyl frame.

Price Considerations

Size - the size of the window plays an important factor in the cost of the window. As the size of the window increases, usually, the cost increases, but other factors go into the cost — not just the size. When creating a large unit, such as a bow or bay window, several windows are formed into the window, adding to the cost.

Glazing - The type of glass, such as Low-E or tempered glass, will increase the price, as will double and triple pane units.

Type - Double pane and triple pane windows cost more than single pane windows. Operable are more expensive than inoperable. The more pieces that go into construction of the unit, the more expensive the window.

Style - Picture, bow and bay windows are more expensive than a simple double hung due to the creation of the larger units.

Material - Wood window frames can be the most expensive, especially if hard woods such as oak are used. The price attached to fiberglass frames can be comparable to wood. Vinyl and aluminum frames are the least costly, but add an interior veneer for aesthetics and the price increases.

Features - Manufacturers create windows with decorative glazing or integral mullions, which will add to the price of the window unit. 

Getting Started

Providing sunlight and ventilation into darker spaces in a home can be accomplished by installing skylights. Free sunlight will illuminate, and add a feeling of comfort in spaces that may not be appropriate for a window or north facing so sunlight does not reach windows. Hallways, walk-in closets, bathrooms, kitchens or family rooms all will benefit from increased sunlight and even fresh air. Once considered an opportunity for ruining a roof, improved units come with flashing to integrate the roof shingles or tiles to eliminate leaking.

What to Consider

How is the Roof Constructed? Most homes are designed with rafters spaced 16-inches or 24-inches apart to hold the sheathing upon which the roof shingles or tiles are installed. Skylights are created to fit within these spaces; larger skylights may be installed to provide more light and fresh air and that may require engineering of the roof system. If the roof is constructed with a truss system, and if larger skylights are desired, a structural engineer will need to review the roof and design alternative framing.

Local Building Codes will require permits in most areas for installing skylights to regulate the snow load on the unit, wind resistance, etc.

What is the Architectural Design of the Building? Depending on the historic value of the home, or the curb appeal of its design, skylights may or may not be appropriate on the street side(s) of the home.

How is the Attic Finished? If the skylight has an attic through which the light must travel, a chase will be built to provide access to the room(s) below. Positioning the skylight will be important to take into account any electrical, plumbing or HVAC equipment in the attic.

Terms

Venting - Will open and close, like awning windows, to provide fresh air.  May be operated by hand, or be electric with remote control. Units with sensors to close during inclement weather are available.

Fixed - Will not open and close

Roof Window - depends upon the manufacturer, but skylights that open and “pivot” to provide a larger opening and to enable cleaning the outside may be called roof windows. Some manufacturers refer to all skylight options as roof windows, while others call their venting units roof windows. Read manufacturer catalogs and listings for their terminology.

Chase - A tunnel constructed from the skylight through the attic to the room below. The chase walls may be straight, angled or even flared to direct the sunlight and any fresh air, and to provide the view to the sky.

Flashing - Material used to deter water infiltration around protuberances in sheathing, such as windows in walls and skylights or vents in roofs.

Curb - A raised lip surrounding the skylight to deflect water around the unit.

Glazing - Glass or plastics are used in skylights for the viewing area. These units are constructed in single, double, or triple pane varieties. Double and triple pane skylights may opt to have argon gas between the panes to increase the energy efficiency. The glazing can be flat, domed, arched or created into shapes such as pyramids or barrels.

Tempered Glass - Treated by heating and cooling or with chemicals to safety standards. The glass is stronger to resist winds and debris that may hit the skylight. Should it break, tempered glass is designed to create small pieces that will be less damaging if they fall.

Laminated Glass - Two or more panes of glass are bonded with an interlayer of resilient plastic. Used in skylights to diminish fracturing of the panes from storm damage. If the glass breaks, minimal chips of glass will fall into the room below as it will adhere to the plastic laminate.Low-E coatings reduce heat transfer from the outside in, and from the inside out.

U-Factor - The measure of heat transference in a window or skylight. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient the unit.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) - The effectiveness of the skylight in reducing heat from sunlight entering the room.

Visible Light Transmittance - Measurement of the amount of daylight a skylight transmits. To block damaging UV rays, a tinted glazing may be added to the glass or plastic panes. This will block the amount of sunlight into the area below.

Tubular Skylight or Tubular Daylighting Device (TDD) - Designed to provide sunlight through the roof into an area below through a tubular chase, which is treated with a reflective interior coating.

Types

Glass skylights are constructed using glass panes that must be safety rated. Tempered, laminated, or even both types of glass may be used as the panes. Glass skylights will be rated for their solar heat gain and for their energy efficiency.

Plastic skylights use one of several types of plastic materials to create the viewing area. Plastic is easier to mold into shapes so it is most frequently found in arched or domed units. Shaped skylights are used to provide a larger area for sunlight accessibility.

Venting skylights will open to provide fresh air into the space below.

    •  Manual venting units require occupants to open and close the unit. If the skylight is mounted higher than accessible by hand, a pole is supplied to reach the crank for closing.

    •  Motorized venting units are electric or pneumatic and are operated by a wall switch or remote control, even wirelessly, to provide occupants the ability to open and close the skylight.

    •  Automatic venting units are designed with condensation sensors to open and close the skylight automatically.

Fixed skylights provide sunlight and a view to the outside and will not open and closed.

Shapes

Flat pane - glass or plastic panes are flat in the skylight frame.

Dome - Usually plastic panes are shaped into high domes to collect more of the sun’s rays to direct into the unit.

Angled - Glass or plastic panes molded to direct the natural light.

Pyramid - Plastic or glass that is created into a pyramid shape projecting from the frame. Mostly used on flat roofs to collect the sun’s rays from several angles.

Barrel - Usually plastic formed into a high dome for providing a larger area to collect the natural light.

Features

Blinds can be added to a skylight to block the sun’s rays during the hottest time of the day or during the morning hours. Blinds will deflect damaging UV rays from furniture and carpets in the space below. Note the direction of the skylight and realize East and West facing units will provide early morning and late afternoon sunlight into the space below. Blinds can be manually controlled or by use of a remote control.

Shades may be used with skylights to provide “shade” for the room below the skylight. Shades will block damaging UV rays and natural light into the space. Manual or motorized units are available.

Motorized skylights provide the option to open and close venting units by wall switch or remote control. Motorized shades and blinds are available on these units.

Automatic skylights will open and close when condensation sensors recognize the need.

Price Considerations

Size - Larger units will cost more than smaller skylights.

Glazing - Glass skylights cost more than plastic panes.

Venting - Add about 40 percent more to the cost. Motorized or Automatic venting will increase the cost.

Energy - Efficient Units will cost more due to the increased materials involved in construction in creating double-pane skylights. Add argon glass, laminate film, Low-E glass and the prices will continue to go up.

Installation - Consider the location of the unit on the roof, the need for flashing and chase construction through an attic.

Features - Blinds or shades will increase the price.

Tubular Daylighting Device Considerations

When a full skylight is not practical, a TDD may provide the natural light desired. Smaller than skylights, the TDD fits into tighter spaces.  “Plastic” domes on the roof may be designed with prisms to draw more natural light into the unit and down through a metal or plastic chase through a diffuser into the space below. The tubular chases can be angled and extended from 12-feet up to 24-feet long to reach a lower level space.

How Much Light Is Needed: A 10” TDD will light a 150-square-foot space; a 14” unit provides daylight for a 300-square-foot area; 21” unit will light a 700-square-foot room. Depending upon the reflectivity of the tubular chase, and the length of the run from the roof, from 95 percent to 98 percent of the natural light will reach the room below.

Pitch of the Roof and Type of Shingles: A variety of flashing materials are available to seal the TDD and eliminate leaking. Also, the dome for daylight collection will be angled for best results.

Weather Zones will Require Safety Measures: TDDs are created from materials specified for hurricane and wind load zones.

Tubular Daylighting Device Features

Adjustable - TDDs with metal chases that angle or adjust to fit around pipes or electrical installations.

Diffuser - The panel from the chase that attaches to the ceiling of the room. Diffusers take the natural light and spread it across the area and reduce the amount of damaging UV rays.

Electric Lights - Available from some manufacturers, electrical lights may be included to provide added visibility at night or when natural light is not available.

Vents - For installation in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or anywhere moisture is a consideration, vents can be added to the TDD.

Dimmers - Used to control the amount of natural light into the room.

Tubular Daylighting Device Price Considerations

Size - Larger units will cost more than smaller Tdds.

Chase Systems - The longer the chase as well as the amount of angled units will add to the cost.

Features - Adding vents, dinners and electric light kits will reflect in the price.

Installation - Usually cost effective when compared to other types of skylights or windows.