How to test the quality of a window?

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mfer2k
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How to test the quality of a window?

#1 Post by mfer2k »

When companies bring vinyl window samples to your home (or when you're in a showroom), what kinds of tests should a consumer do to try to make an opinion on the quality of the product?

TheWindowNerd
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#2 Post by TheWindowNerd »

For your area air tightness is very important.
Ask to see a copy of the windows structural test result.
Look for the AI(air infiltration) results.
Less than .09 is good
Less than .05 is the best.

mfer2k
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#3 Post by mfer2k »

So it's really all about the AAMA/NFRC/Energy Star ratings then.

There isn't anything you can/should do when holding a window sample to test the strength of the vinyl or to look for welded corners or air chambers or any of that great stuff?

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Windows on Washington
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#4 Post by Windows on Washington »

Not really and certainly nothing that will be of any value as compared to the Structural and NFRC testing data.

mfer2k
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#5 Post by mfer2k »

Got it, thanks.

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HomeSealed
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#6 Post by HomeSealed »

To clarify, the data reports that Nerd mentions give you the ratings (structural), it is not something completely different. It is essentially the AAMA based ratings that you referred to.

I agree that the data is of paramount importance, however I personally believe that there is something to be gained from a physical examination of a window unit as well. Here are some points I recommend looking for:

1) Manufacturing tolerances. Open a sash and try to move it side to side. Is there a lot of slop, or is it relatively tight? (THIS is a big one for me). It should be the latter. You should feel and hear engagement of the weateherstripping as you open, close, and operate the unit.

2)How does it feel when you operate it? It should feel like a substantial piece, not something flimsy that is ready to fall apart.

3)How does it look? Quality windows will not need to be too bulky to be strong. Clean lines, decent amount of glass, soft edges (not sharp blocky edges), nice clean looking welds in the corners of the sashes and frames. Simply note the overall fit and finish as compared to other units that you have seen.

4) Vinyl should be a soft white color, not a blue-ish hue like a florescent light.

5) Sill. Is it a big bulky sill with chambers to drain water? Not desirable. A fully welded sloped sill is superior, but it should also not be super thin and flimsy.

This list is not the end-all, be-all by any means, but if you keep these things in mind as you look at a few different products, it can be helpful IMO.

mfer2k
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Re: How to test the quality of a window?

#7 Post by mfer2k »

That helps a lot, thank you.

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