FAQ

How does vinyl siding add resale value?

Remodeling magazine said in its annual survey “the highest payback comes from projects that give an older home the same features that have become standard in new homes.”

A real estate agent interviewed added, “Things like new siding and new windows . . . will cause the house to sell quicker for more money.”

Am I really losing money keeping my old windows?

Yes. The U.S. Department of Energy has stated up to 40% of your energy bills may be attributed to poorly insulated windows and doors. In fact, a 1/16″ gap in a standard window will allow as much air to enter your home as a missing brick.

9 Windows = 9 Bricks missing in your home to allow heated or cooled air to escape thus driving up your energy bills.

Do Vinyl Replacement Windows add resale value?

The Eastern average of recoup is 73%, while Garden City, NY is 149%, New Haven, CT it’s 111% while Boston, MA is 89%.

Are Replacement Windows a good investment?

Yes. First of all you may save money in your monthly heating and cooling bills. Additionally, because they are vinyl framed, you eliminate any repainting costs. Lastly, the warranty is transferable which will help in the resale value if you ever decide to sell your home.

What about strength, protection and noise reduction?

Our computer controlled process provides superior strength in both the main-frame as well as a perfectly square window sash.

The full interlock at the meeting rail provides energy efficiency helping to protect your home from the elements or unwanted intrusions. The insulating glass traps dry air, creating an exceptional comfort barrier.

Additional sound and intrusion barriers are created at the point where the upper and lower sashes meet with our full interlock system.

When should I consider replacing my windows?

You should consider replacing your windows if: Your windows are difficult to clean easily and safely from inside the home. Your windows aren’t energy efficient. Your wood frames are rotting. You get excessive amounts of condensation, fading of furniture and draperies. You are tired of painting and staining. You feel drafts while sitting near your current windows.

What should I look for when selecting a product?

Choose a company with a proven track record and good references. Make sure you are getting a high quality product and certified installers.

I have odd-sized windows in my home. Can Advanced Window Systems provide replacement windows to fit my openings?

Yes, Advanced Window Systems carries custom-made windows to the nearest 1/16″ increment and can produce a variety of shapes and sizes

What does AAMA and NFRC certified mean to me as a homeowner?

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) sets all performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the window industry. When a product passes AAMA tests, it ensures long, reliable service if properly installed and maintained correctly. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit organization created by the Department of Energy and the window, door and skylight industry to provide consistent ratings on window, door and skylight products pertaining to the energy performance of that product.

A NFRC label is placed on window, door, and skylight products to inform consumers about a product’s U-factor. Factors taken into consideration for the U-factor rating include: the ability of the product to block warming caused by sunlight, light transmittance and air leakage by infiltration through cracks in the product assembly.

What’s the best way to evaluate a window’s energy performance?

The easiest way to compare energy performance of different windows and doors is to read the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. It provides valuable efficiency information about the product including the u-value, solar heat gain and visible light transmittance values. Also check to see if the product is ENERGY STAR® approved.

What is the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA)?

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association or AAMA sets all performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the window industry. When a product passes AAMA tests, you can expect long and reliable service as long as the window is installed and maintained correctly.

What is ENERGY STAR®?

ENERGY STAR is an independent U.S. government program establishing a standard set of guidelines to recognize the energy efficiency of various products. ENERGY STAR guidelines are used in conjunction with a variety of building materials, including windows and patio doors. Over the past 10 years, ENERGY STAR guidelines have helped double the efficiency of windows they endorse.

What is Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass?

Low-e glass is manufactured by depositing a microscopically thin, transparent metal or metallic oxide layer on the glass. Low-e coatings reduce radiant heat loss, and can reduce the passage of UV rays. Use of heat-resistant (or absorbing) glass began in the 1950s, as did the use of reflective (or mirror) glass.

What is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)?

The NFRC is an independent, third-party certification organization with industry-accepted standards for evaluating and certifying energy performance. The NFRC Certificate contains U-factor, SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) and VT (Visible Transmittance) values. These values form the basis for the ENERGY STAR® Door and Window Program.

What is R-Value?

Refers to a window’s resistance to thermal transfer or heat flow. The higher the value, the better the insulation.

Aren’t all vinyl windows really about the same?

No. There are many different ways windows are manufactured and many different quality levels. Also, there are many different types of thermal glass systems. Both contribute to the overall cost.

What happens if the thermal seal of the glass goes bad?

Most window brands installed by Advanced Window Systems carry a non-prorated lifetime warranty against seal failure.

What is U-Value?

U-Value is a measure of air-to-air heat transmission (loss or gain) due to thermal conductance and the difference in indoor and outdoor temperatures. As the U-Value decreases, so does the amount of heat that is transferred through the glazing material. The lower the U-Value, the more restrictive the fenestration product is to heat transfer.

Who will perform the actual installation of my windows?

Advanced Window Systems’ own trained craftsmen will install your new windows with pride and expertise. This will ensure both a quality installation and a beautiful job every time.

How long does a window installation usually take?

Most homes with up to 12 to 15 windows can be completed in one day, including clean up. Some jobs may require finishing up on a second day.

What about the old windows and all the mess from the installation?

All job debris is removed and the job is cleaned up very well inside and out. We take pride in our work and the area around it, so we will clean up our job for one less headache on your end.

How long will it take before my windows are ready to install?

Usually within 4 -5 weeks, however lead time can vary during different times of the year through our busy season.

Are there advantages to vinyl over wood?

Yes, many. Advanced Window Systems vinyl windows are all custom made for a perfect fit. Most wood windows are standard size and won’t fit without a great deal of construction or carpentry work.

When Advanced Window Systems finishes the job, it’s finished and beautiful. When wood windows are installed, the hard part of sanding, staining and sealing just begins.

With some vinyl window manufacturers’ lifetime warranties there is no out-of-pocket expenses. Most wood window warranties are for shorter periods of time.

Can you install year round?

Yes. Advanced Window Systems trained installers have methods that allow for year round installation without harm to your home or comfort.