Q&A: Answers to the Most Common Window Questions

April 04, 2008 — JELD-WEN answers the top questions on homeowners’ minds

As a leading manufacturer of windows and doors, JELD-WEN receives literally hundreds of questions about windows. Below are just some of the most frequently asked questions and company perspective. JELD-WEN experts are available to provide additional information, or visit jeld-wen.com for more window and door insight.

Q: What are the most common materials for window buyers today?
A: Wood, vinyl and aluminum are the most common materials. Vinyl dominates the market for both new housing and remodels, comprising more than 50% of windows sold in 44 states. Vinyl is gaining the most momentum in all segments of replacement windows and now represents 65 percent of the market. Metal-clad-wood windows are now more popular than primed and painted wood. Like a protective coat of armor, metal cladding offers very durable, low-maintenance protection (JELD-WEN offers commercial grade, 70 percent Kynar® 500 exterior metal cladding, which resists chalking and fading). Wood and clad-wood windows continue to sell well in new construction and remodeling. Aluminum windows remain strong in the southern states where heat loss is not an issue.

Q: What benefits does each material typically provide and what are some of the latest technology advancements?  
A: Aluminum is typically the least expensive choice and is generally selected for price and in the southern states where cooling is more of a concern than heating. Vinyl provides low maintenance, durability and greater energy efficiency, and does well in virtually all climates. For optimum energy efficiency, homeowners should look for windows with Low-E glass and the ENERGY STAR® label. JELD-WEN now offers Low-E glass as standard for many of its window products and many of the company's products qualify for the ENERGY STAR rating.

In terms of wood, some big changes have happened in recent years, thanks to AuraLast® wood by JELD-WEN. Known as the "worry- free wood," AuraLast wood windows and doors are the first to provide a 20-year warranty against wood decay and termites. AuraLast wood comes standard for all U.S.-produced JELD-WEN® pine wood windows and patio doors.

What makes AuraLast wood different is JELD-WEN’s proprietary treatment process. Unlike the industry standard “dip” treatment in which wood is dipped into a solution resulting in a thin top coating, AuraLast wood is created using a vacuum/pressure process. This forces the active ingredients into the wood, all the way through to the core, for constant protection. Screws and nail holes will not compromise the integrity of AuraLast wood. 

Q: What about style considerations?
A: Vinyl provides an attractive look and is low maintenance, which is an important factor for buyers. Wood or clad wood is a beautiful option that can enhance curb appeal and, with its customization ability, it can match virtually any architectural style you desire. 

Q: How do I select the window that’s right for my home?
A: Various product options, such as type of glass or cladding will influence costs, aesthetics and performance. To help select windows that may work best for you, determine your priorities and carefully research and evaluate product options. Also, when it comes to cost, homeowners need to look beyond the initial purchase and installation cost. Considerations such as energy efficiency and long-term maintenance costs are important to factor in. Keep in mind that windows and doors can have a big impact on home energy efficiency by helping control the amount of light, air and heat that enters and exits the home. NAHB statistics show the average home today has 19 windows, three exterior doors and one patio door—all of which can play a major role in energy use.

Costs vary greatly depending on styles, sizes and options. In general, aluminum is the least expensive choice, then vinyl, then wood and clad-wood. Aesthetics are a matter of personal preference. Wood generally offers the most options— again, the customization opportunities are virtually limitless. And given advancements such as AuraLast wood and options including cladding, wood has become more worry- and maintenance-free than ever. Vinyl windows also are undergoing some major advancements when it comes to having detailed styling options. Vinyl is a great choice for homeowners looking for affordable, reliable and efficient windows, but who may not have a budget for custom wood windows.

Q: What should homeowners consider when it comes to warranties?
A: Warranties are very important, and vary depending on products and options selected. Correct installation is also key. Homeowners need to pay careful attention to making sure their windows are correctly installed and maintained, or the warranty could be void.  AuraLast wood represents a major step forward when it comes to wood window and door warranty. JELD-WEN offers an industry leading 20-year warranty with windows and doors built with AuraLast wood and a limited lifetime warranty with vinyl windows. JELD-WEN warranties are also transferable and typically cover repair and replacement labor. Visit jeld-wen.com for specific warranty information for different types of products.

Q: What colors are available and what materials offer the most options?
A: Vinyl windows typically have been White and Almond, although JELD-WEN has a popular optional color called Desert Sand for its Premium Vinyl Window line. Wood cladding comes in a variety of colors— JELD-WEN offers 41 standard colors for its Custom Wood Window line, custom color matching, as well as three copper cladding options. Many homeowners, particularly in western mountain states, are choosing gorgeous cladding combinations such as black with copper cladding trim. It’s a great detail for any home to help add tremendous curb appeal.  Aluminum windows come in White, Bronze or Desert Sand finishes.

Q: What about energy efficiency? How important is it to today’s homeowner?
A: Energy efficiency is a big topic and research shows that an overwhelming majority of consumers place a high value on energy-saving features in new homes. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) found that 97 percent of respondents regard the energy performance of a window “important” or “very important” in their purchasing decision. Below are the best clues to help determine window energy efficiency.
 
Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, the ENERGY STAR label is the easiest way to identify the most energy efficient products on the market. The EPA states that a typical household can save up to 30 percent on energy bills (as much as $400 per year) by selecting ENERGY STAR qualified home products. Look for windows with the label that shows it meets ENERGY STAR qualifications suitable for the region where you live. JELD-WEN has been an ENERGY STAR partner since 1998.