Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

For all those Replacement Window decisions - just read, review or post a question. You will be helped!
Post Reply
Message
Author
JackAcres
Posts: 2
Joined: Tue Oct 25, 2016 10:59 pm

Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#1 Post by JackAcres »

I have 2 bids for 13 windows

The Comfort Design Comfort Series .28 U value, .06 AI &
Plygem Pro 200 (slider) .21 U value .20 AI (triple paned)
(.30 Exfiltration)

The Plygem windows are $1000 more

While I would prefer having triple paned windows, since I have electric heat, the higher AI number makes me question the quality of the design.

Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

User avatar
Windows on Washington
Posts: 4850
Joined: Wed Apr 04, 2007 11:21 pm
Location: DC Metropolitan Area-Maryland/Virginia/DC
Contact:

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#2 Post by Windows on Washington »

If 0.20 was the best that was out there, then I would say to pull the trigger. We know that it is definitely not the best in this case and more than below average.

Air infiltration is a very close second (sometimes first) in terms of sources of energy loss when it comes to the window assemblies.

My recommendation would be to look for something that is much tighter in terms of air infiltration.

TheWindowNerd
Posts: 1893
Joined: Sun Feb 22, 2009 5:52 pm
Location: SE PA & NJ; CT
Contact:

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#3 Post by TheWindowNerd »

You should be .09 or less.
I prefer .05 or less.

toddinmn
Posts: 632
Joined: Tue Apr 20, 2010 7:11 am

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#4 Post by toddinmn »

Air and DP numbers are typically higher on sliders regardless of brand. Something in the range of .10 and 45 may be good, there are some brands I don't like that would fall into this category though.

User avatar
HomeSealed
Posts: 2749
Joined: Tue Feb 16, 2010 6:14 pm
Location: Milwaukee, Madison, Northern IL
Contact:

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#5 Post by HomeSealed »

I agree with the above comments, I'd avoid a window with a .20+AI rating unless you have some compelling reason not to. An example would be someone willing to sacrifice performance for looks in getting a wood window... If we are talking vinyl, it should be significantly lower, and your assessment is spot on in that these ratings are often indicative of product design and build quality.

JackAcres
Posts: 2
Joined: Tue Oct 25, 2016 10:59 pm

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#6 Post by JackAcres »

Thanks for your comments.

You all convinced me that .20 is to high for an AI. The Comfort Design would be fine if it weren't for the 20 DP. It seems kind of low to me.

User avatar
HomeSealed
Posts: 2749
Joined: Tue Feb 16, 2010 6:14 pm
Location: Milwaukee, Madison, Northern IL
Contact:

Re: Should I be concerned about a 0.20 AI window

#7 Post by HomeSealed »

I think that is wise, both of those have some major deficiencies. I'd suggest trying some additional product options

Post Reply