Windows can drastically cut heating, cooling costs
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Christina McNamara
Improvements in windows and doors are providing buyers easier cleaning, better efficiency, which converts to energy savings, and decorative options.
"You can now buy windows with grids or lines between the two panes of glass — no boxes," said J.R. Girfkis, vice president of Suburban Construction, Davenport.
"One of our manufacturers has come out with a fiberglass frame that you can get in any color," said Michael Lamb, owner and president of Bi-State Home Improvement, Moline.
Double-hung and sliding windows also fold in for easy cleaning. Suburban Construction also offers a window treatment called "Stay Clean Glass."
"The window stays clean longer. ‘Stay Clean Glass' works like Rain-X. It's a $40 upgrade and you must ask for it when you order," Girfkis said.
While looks and ease of cleaning are important factors to consider when window shopping, choosing an energy-efficient window is crucial if you want to cut down on energy bills.
"I always would demand a Low-E (emissivity) window with Argon. It helps regulate the weather, keeping your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer," said Rod Whitmire, inside sales representative, Allied Building Products, Bettendorf.
"I'd also look for a window with a welded frame and sashes to help the strength of window and to help it not go out of alignment," Whitmire said.
While many window choices are driven by efficiency, door choices are more driven by style. However, if you want an energy-efficient door, choose one without glass.
"If you want energy-efficient door, choose one that's solid. You give up energy efficiency for glass, anytime you make that choice," Lamb said.
Doors are made of wood, steel or fiberglass. Fiberglass is the most popular right now.
"Fiberglass can be painted or stained. It doesn't split like wood or dent like steel. It has a longer warranty, too, and you can get custom sizes. Fiberglass doors aren't cold in the wintertime or hot in the summertime," Girfkis said.
Contact the Bettendorf News at
(563) 383-2396 or bettnews@qctimes.com.
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