Tulsa World: Modern windows save on heating bills

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Modern windows save on heating bills

By PHIL MULKINS World Action Line Editor
Published: 10/31/2008 2:17 AM
Last Modified: 10/31/2008 2:48 AM

Dear Action Line: We installed sealed, double-paned windows in our north wall and now one of them has this milky looking film inside of it on the outer pane. Does this mean it was defective from the start or that it needs replacing? What else can we do to make our windows less of a heat-sink? — L.T., Tulsa.

Chances are it was defective from the start, unless the inner glass is cracked or one of its vinyl seals is wrinkled or broken, said John Vestring, owner of Glass Doctor of Tulsa tulsaworld.com/GlassDRTulsa. "If an IGU seal fails, a milky substance forms, diminishing energy savings and the view."

IGUs: Insulated glass units (IGUs) take the place of storm windows over regular windows but do away with the problem of air and moisture getting between the two windows. Using modern thermal technology, such units separate two panes of glass with a metal or plastic spacer (filled with a desiccant) edged with a sealing material. This keeps air and moisture from entering the space. In basic units, the air trapped between the panes acts as an insulator, slowing the passage of heat into or out of the interior.

U-factor: The more air between the glass the better insulator it is. In top quality IGUs one of the two panes is given a "low-e coating." Low-emittance coatings are micro-thin metallic oxides that reduce the pane's U-factor (resistance to heat flow). This further slows heat transfer.

Energy Star windows: As for your other windows, you should replace those also with IGUs, as airflow through the house can also carry away the heat you pay to create. See tulsaworld.com/EnergyStarWindows for Energy Star guidance. New vinyl or fiberglass windows with low-emissive glass conduct less heat and are more energy-efficient than metal windows, said Vestring. Oklahoma is in the Energy Star South/Central climate zone: windows must have a U-factor of less than 0.43 to carry its label. See also National Fenestration Rating Council consumer info at tulsaworld.com/NFRC .

Resale value: "Repairing or replacing windows is a great home value investment. Remodeling magazine tulsaworld.com/Remodeling says 79 to 81 percent of the average window replacement cost is recouped in resale value appreciation. Glass Doctor can help find the windows that are right for your home," he said.

Silicone II caulking: In the winter, cold air isn't getting inside — warm air is getting out, taking your money with it. Read about GE's "Silicone II" at tulsaworld.com/GESiliconeII .

Temporary storms: "Framed inserts can be custom-built from sheets of plastic that are framed with wood and attached to window trim with clips. Before it gets too cold outside, insulate around window and door glass trim. Install weather stripping around older windows that are not opened often. Now there is rope caulk that doesn't need a caulk gun and can be easily removed and used again," said Vestring. See tulsaworld.com/DuckWindow .

Submit Action Line questions by calling 699-8888 or by e-mailing phil.mulkins@TulsaWorld.com or by U.S. mailing it to Tulsa World Consumer, PO Box 1770, Tulsa OK 74102-1770.

By PHIL MULKINS World Action Line Editor

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