Why wood windows? Part 2

June 18th, 2007

You’ll find double-hung models that letyou take the sash out of the channel. There’s even a “tilt-turn’ model that opens from the side and from the bottom, using a German-made hinge mechanism. Divided-light windows have several individual panes; they’re attractive and traditional, but costly. For a similar look with one large pane, you can opt for snap-in grilles in vinyl or wood. They’re inexpensive and ease cleaning chores–though the wood ones need occasional repainting.

Checking energy performance

To get some idea of a window’s energyperformance, take the time to check its specified R- and U-value ratings.

For retarding heat flow, single glazing israted about R-1. Double-glazed models run R-2 to R-2.5. Triple glazing gives you roughly R-3.5. The low-e glazings top out at nearly R-4.5. (A typical fiberglass-insulated 2-by-4 stud wall rates R-11).

For overall energy efficiency, a U-valuerating of .5 or less is pretty good. Single-glazed windows (with 1/8-inch glass) rate around 1; double-glazed models go as low as U-.25.

Note: the R and U values aren’t establishedby a single independent agency, such as Underwriters’ Laboratories. Some manufacturers do their own testing.

Costs vary widely with size, style, options, and manufacturer

Compare prices as you shop, and you’lllikely hear such comments as, “Our double-hungs cost less than theirs, but our casements cost more.’ Here are some rules of thumb we’ve discovered:

tandard-size single-glazed windows costroughly $7 to $15 per square foot; double-glazed, $15 to $20. Snap-in grilles add about $2 to $4 a square foot. If you opt for true divided-light windows, you’ll pay $25 to $30 per square foot. Custom sizes cost up to twice as much.

Remember, it costs more to install roundtopor odd-shaped windows, since additional framing and workmanship are required; ask your contractor.

Can you install the windows yourself?

In general, you need to provide the companywith the height and width of the window openings and the thickness of the wall. Most firms will send a representative to your house to take measurements and discuss options–but sometimes only after you pay a visit to their office.

Can you install a window yourself? Yes, ifyou’re a fairly experienced carpenter, have some help, and buy the window fully flanged to fit in place. Be very sure that the rough opening is sized to the window’s exterior dimensions, that the frame is plumb and level all around–this may involve some shimming–and that you caulk and seal the frame before you close up the wall. But be advised: do-it-yourself installation may invalidate your warranty, and not all window firms provide step-by-step instructions.

Throughout the West, you’ll encounteregress codes that are enforced by building inspectors. The codes may spell out, for example, the minimum amount of glass acceptable in bedrooms (in some communities, 5.7 square feet) and set standards for placement (sill no more than 44 inches above floor). Also, energy codes govern the percentages of glass-to-floor area in a house. Make sure your plans jibe with the codes before you proceed.

COPYRIGHT 1987 Sunset Publishing Corp.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group

Entry Filed under: Wood Windows