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More and more homeowners are beginning to utilize low e-glass windows to make their homes feel more comfortable and look more modern. This is due in large part to the aesthetic and energy-saving benefits that installing low e-glass windows provide. This review discusses how you can save money and improve the look and feel of your home by installing low e-glass windows.

Reasons You Should Install Low E-Glass Windows

There are many benefits that low E-glass windows offer that traditional insulated windows do not provide. These benefits include reduced energy loss, increased monthly savings on energy costs, a transparent window appearance, exceptional durability and protection from harmful UV rays.

While discussing the benefits with a Low-E glass window installation contractor is the best way to determine if they are right for you, this review should give you insight into why they might work well for you.

Reduce Energy Loss In Your Home By As Much As 50 Percent

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), Low-E glass windows can reduce energy loss in your home from between 30 and 50 percent. So what does this mean exactly?

This means your HVAC unit does not have to work as hard to keep the home at your desired temperature level. Subsequently, your home is likely to feel more comfortable than it did before you installed Low-E glass windows.

Save Money On Energy Costs Each Month

Since your home does not have to work as hard to control the temperature with Low-E glass windows, you can naturally save money on energy costs each month.

The cost of Low-E glass windows is approximately 10 to 15 percent more than traditional-style windows, but the extra cost is often returned to the homeowner over time due to monthly cost savings. When combined with the exceptional durability that Low-E glass windows provide, it is a cost-effective solution long-term, despite the increased cost upon installation.

Low-E Glass Is Completely Transparent

Low-E glass is essentially invisible, which gives it an aesthetically pleasing transparent appearance. This is because the protected coatings of Low-E glass have a transparent nature. There is also no tint added to Low-E glass windows. In addition, they are damage and scratch-resistant (see below). While regular cleaning may be necessary, it is easy to keep their beautiful appearance for more than a decade. 

When combined with the energy cost savings, the aesthetic value makes Low-E glass windows essentially flawless.

The Low-E Coatings Cannot Be Damaged

The reason Low-E glass windows are so durable is that the protective coatings that deflect UV and infrared rays are on the outside of the glass, which means the glass is protected in the middle.

Subsequently, the glass is far less likely to get dirty or damaged by weather elements, animals, etc. In fact, Low-E glass windows last an average of 10 to 15 years. Of course, the climate you live in and the regular maintenance you provide may play a role in how long they last.

Protect Your Home Furniture From Harmful UV Rays

UV rays and infrared light can damage furniture over time, in addition to heating the home more than you may desire. This can lead to you having to replace your furniture more often than you want. However, since Low-E glass windows deflect UV rays, it helps protect your furniture’s upholstery from early wear and tear.

This means you can allow the natural light to shine through without worrying about damaging your furniture, so you can say goodbye to the curtains during the daytime and enjoy the beautiful natural lighting.

Low E-Glass Windows vs. Traditional Insulated Windows

Low-E glass windows cost more on average than traditional insulated windows. However, this is only in reference to the initial cost of the window installation.

When factoring in the cost of energy savings long-term, many who purchase Low-E glass windows save more money. In addition, Low-E glass windows protect your furniture from damage by UV and infrared light, which is not the case with traditional insulated windows.

Traditional insulated windows are more affordable initially than Low-E glass windows. However, they may not hold up as well over time. While they can last for more than a decade, they are more susceptible to damage from weather, animals, golf balls, etc. Perhaps more notably, traditional insulated windows do not deflect UV light the same way as Low-E glass windows and may be more vulnerable to stains.

Some traditional window styles also include a tint, rather than the invisible and stain-resistant nature of Low-E glass windows.

Reach Out To The Experienced E-Glass Window Installation Contractors

If you are interested in low e-glass windows and want to learn more about how they can benefit your home, reach out to our experienced team of window installation contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today by calling (703) 386-7357 or by requesting an estimate online. We are glad to answer any questions you may have and guide you through every step of the decision-making and installation process with low e-glass windows.

Low-E glass, also called low emissivity glass, is an innovative window style that utilizes transparent coatings of metallic oxide to deflect UV rays and infrared light; it only allows natural light to enter your home. This is important as UV rays and infrared light can harm upholstery and increase the amount of heat inside your home, leading to damaged furniture and increased energy costs.

With this type of glass, homeowners are able to control the temperature inside their homes with less effort. Although it may seem too good to be true, the science behind Low-E glass windows is fairly definitive. In simplest terms, invisible coatings allow natural light in while keeping a large majority of the heat away from the interior of your home.

The Different Types Of Low-E Glass

There are two primary types of Low-E glass windows—passive and solar control Low-E coatings. They both offer unique benefits. In general, passive Low-E coated windows are ideal for cold climates, whereas solar control Low-E coated windows are ideal for neutral to warmer climates.

Passive Low-E Coatings

Passive Low-E coatings, also called hard-coat Low-E coatings, use a pyrolytic coating. This coating has a hard bond and is very durable. It allows some short-wave infrared energy inside the home, so it is an ideal solution for homes that are in colder climates.

This is because they allow more heat to enter your home than with solar control Low-E coated glass windows, but they still provide the benefit of keeping much of the harmful UV rays out.

Solar Control Low-E Coatings

Solar control Low-E coatings, also called soft-coat Low-E coatings, use a Magnetron Sputtering Vapor Deposition (MSVD) process. This process creates a soft coat and offers a lower emissivity rating.

This means it has excellent solar control and does not allow much unwanted UV light to enter the home. It is still durable and damage-resistant as well. Subsequently, this coating option works well for more neutral or warmer climates that do not need any extra heat from sunlight to regulate the temperature of your home.

How To Choose The Right Type Of Low-E Glass Coating

As mentioned, passive Low-E glass coatings (hard-coat) are ideal for colder climates, whereas the solar control coatings (soft coat) are more ideal for warmer climates that do not need extra heat from UV or infrared light. Of course, the best way to choose the right type of Low-E glass coating for your home is to discuss both options with a window installation professional.

They can help you make informed decisions and ensure the proper installation of the glass windows, which is typically more complex. DIY installation is usually not an option.

The Pros & Cons Of Low-E Glass For Your Home

Low-E glass windows offer unique benefits due to the ability to keep UV and infrared light and heat out of the home. Several of the more notable benefits to this kind of glass windows include but are not limited to:

• Reduced energy loss
• Monthly energy cost savings
• Transparent appearance
• Improved home comfort
• Damage-resistant
• Protects furniture from UV rays

Low-E glass windows improve the comfort of the home by keeping the sunlight out. They also add aesthetic value due to their invisible appearance, and they are durable due to the damage-resistant coating and the protection of the window glass.

The drawbacks to Low-E glass windows are that they cost more and may have a more complex installation process. DIY Low-E glass windows are not a good idea, and it is best to trust a professional window installation contractor to handle the job. As it pertains to the cost, although this kind of glass windows are more expensive initially, they can save the homeowner more money long-term as they can reduce monthly energy costs.

Are Low-E Glass Windows Worth The Investment?

As mentioned, Low-E glass windows cost more than traditional window options, but they can yield a significant return on your investment over time. In many cases, the difference in price for the glass windows pay for themselves by reducing your energy costs each month by a substantial amount.

On average, Low-E glass windows cost between 10 and 15 percent more than traditional insulation windows, a small amount compared to the long-term value they provide. Therefore, if you have outdated, damaged or unattractive windows that you would like to (or need to) replace, then Low-E glass windows are most certainly worth the investment.

Call The Pros At Adelphia Exteriors For Low E-Glass Installation

If you are interested in low e-glass as replacements for your outdated, damaged or unattractive windows, then reach out to the window installation professionals at Adelphia Exteriors by calling (703) 386-7357 or by contacting us online.

We offer low e-glass window installation, and we are glad to answer your questions and provide a quote to help you decide whether these kinds of glass windows are right for you.

Double hung windows look similar to single hung windows, but there are some notable differences. This review discusses the difference between single hung & double hung windows and how you can choose the best option for your new window installation.

What Are Single Hung & Double Hung Windows?

Single & double hung windows are two of the most traditional window styles. Single hung windows have two sashes, but only the bottom sash opens while the top sash remains stationary. Double hung windows allow you to open either the bottom or top sash.

Some forms of double hung windows allow the sashes to open outward, rather than by sliding it up or down. Although similar in appearance, there are some notable differences in price, style and ease of use, which we will discuss below.

The Pros & Cons Of Single Hung Windows

Single hung windows are the most traditional window style and there is a reason they are the most popular option. Most notably, single hung windows are convenient. They are easily installed and affordable. Other benefits of single hung windows include:

• An authentic and classic look
• Increased savings potential
• Easy for replacing existing windows

Although a professional window installation is still recommended, the installation for single hung windows is easier (and subsequently more affordable). The windows themselves are also more cost-efficient as well when compared with double hung windows.

The drawback to single hung windows, however, is that they do not allow for the same level of ventilation that double hung windows do. In addition, it is more challenging to clean single hung windows since the upper sash does not pull down. They also may not be the most stylish solution for more modern homes.

The Pros & Cons Of Double Hung Windows

At first glance, double hung windows look the same as single hung windows. However, there are notable benefits to choosing double hung windows over single hung windows. These benefits include:

• Easier to clean and maintain
• Allows for better air circulation
• Offers more aesthetic appeal

The exterior of double hung windows are easier to clean. This is because you can easily slide the upper sash as well as the lower sash down for easy access. Subsequently, double hung windows work well for second stories, whereas it is much harder to clean the exterior side of single hung windows on the second floor. Of course, the downside to double hung windows is that they are more expensive when compared with single hung windows.

However, they are still a relatively affordable option when compared against all window types. The installation process may be more challenging as well.

How To Choose Between Single Hung & Double Hung Windows

You can decide between single hung and double hung windows by considering the cost advantages for each, your home type and the ventilation. These considerations should provide you with more information and allow you to make a more informed buying decision.

Consider The Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Value

The cost for new double hung windows is more than new single hung windows. However, the long-term value of double hung windows is greater. This is because they are more valued and easier to care for long-term, which may make it easier to sell your home for the ideal amount in the future.

When choosing between single hung or double hung windows, you should consider whether you prefer to save on installation costs or to attain the long-term added home value that double hung windows offer.

Consider The Type Of Home

Single hung windows are typically ideal for craftsman or cottage-style homes. Double hung windows are used more for colonial, Cape Cod and Victorian houses.

You are starting to see double hung used more for craftsman-style homes as well. Of course, these rules are not written in stone, and both options can look great in most home types. However, considering the type of home you have can always give you a more specific idea of what your home will look like after installation.

Consider The Quality Of Ventilation

Double hung windows allow for better air circulation and ventilation due to their ability to open from both the bottom and upper sashes.

Whereas single hung windows can only open from the bottom sashes, so allowing natural air inside your home is more limited. Your preference for ventilation may influence your preference between single and double hung windows.

Contact The Professional Window Contractors At Adelphia Exteriors

Adelphia Exteriors can help you decide between single hung and double hung windows. We can also help you choose the specific window option that works best for your home (i.e. color, size, etc.), along with handling the installation for you as well.

If you would like to learn more about single hung and double hung windows for your home, contact our professional window installation contractors today by calling (703) 386-7357 or by contacting us online.

Double hung windows offer benefits such as increased ventilation inside your home, an easy cleaning process and increased value when compared with single hung windows. In general, they are an affordable window solution that offers unique advantages when compared with single hung windows. Plus, they are easy to maintain long-term.

This review discusses what double hung windows are, how they work and the advantages to choosing them over alternative window solutions.

Double Hung Windows: An Overview

Double hung windows are traditional-style, rectangular windows. However, the casing on double-hung windows is typically thicker than single-hung windows. They also have two opening sashes. This means you can open the window from the top or the bottom. With single hung windows, you can only open from the bottom. The primary reason homeowners choose double hung windows is for the extra ventilation.

There are other key benefits to double hung windows as well (see below). There are different types of double hung windows to consider. For more traditional double hung windows, you can open them by pulling down (or up) on the sash by placing pressure on the rails. There are newer forms as well, which can open by leaning the windows out from their tracks.

The Advantages Of Double Hung Windows

On average, double hung windows cost more than single hung windows. However, with the additional cost come some key benefits homeowners should consider.

Notable advantages of double hung windows include the ability to let more airflow into the home, an easier time keeping the windows clean and increased home value if and when you decide to sell your home.

Opening & Closing The Windows Is Simple

You can easily open and close double-hung windows without much effort or know-how. As mentioned, you can easily open them by unlocking them and pulling the sash open. You also have the option to open the top or bottom sash.

Some types of double hung windows, allow you to effortlessly open them by leaning the windows out from the tracks. This allows you to clean the outside glass from inside the house.

Double Hung Windows Are Easy To Clean

Both types of double hung windows are easier to clean than single hung windows. You can easily pull the upper sash down, so you can reach it without a step-stool or small ladder while cleaning. For double hung windows that allow you to lean them out from their tracks, you can clean both sides of the window from inside (or outside) the home.

With single hung windows, it is more challenging cleaning the upper sash as it does not slide down and the sash does not lean out.

Double Hung Windows Are Often More Attractive

Of course, the ability to easily clean double hung windows makes it easier to maintain their natural appearance and prevent them from collecting dirt, dust and stains. With single hung windows, homeowners are often less motivated to clean the windows as doing so is more challenging.

This can lead to early replacement of the windows due to the collection of debris that can damage the glass over time. Therefore, homeowners who desire clean and transparent glass that can easily be cleaned in less than an hour should consider double hung windows.

They Are More Valuable Than Single Hung Windows

Double hung windows cost more than single hung windows. Given their similar appearance when they are both brand new, this leads many to buy single hung windows. However, the long-term value is better with double hung windows. Not only are they initially more valuable, they are also easier to keep clean and less likely to need early replacement due to stains or damage.

Clean and damage-free windows can improve the aesthetics of your home and make your home seem more appealing to prospective buyers during the home selling process.

How To Determine If Double Hung Windows Are Right For You

Double hung windows are a great window solution for homeowners who want an affordable option that still offers more unique benefits than traditional single hung windows. They typically work well on the second floor of homes as well since they are easier to clean from the inside of the home.

However, single hung windows are more affordable than double hung windows. They may be ideal for homes that only have one story as they may require cleaning from outside the home, which is difficult to do on the upper floors.

Contact The Professional Window Installation Contractors At Adelphia

Adelphia Exteriors can provide and install double hung windows for your home or business. If you have questions about your window needs, then reach out to our team of professional window installation contractors today by calling (703) 386-7357 or by contacting us online.

We are glad to provide you with answers and help you make an informed decision about the window type that is best for your needs and preferences.

New windows are a great way to improve the appearance of your home and make your home feel more comfortable. However, the extent of the benefits you receive depends largely on the quality of the window installation. A qualified window installation contractor can ensure the job is complete in an efficient manner and in a cost-effective manner. Perhaps more importantly, they can also ensure that the goals you have for your new windows are met with high-quality results.

What Does A Window Installation Contractor Do?

A window installation contractor makes the entire window installation process easy for the homeowner. They handle everything, including but not limited to:

• Helping with design decisions
• Putting together a quote
• Preparing the windows for removal
• Removing the old windows
• Installing the new windows

You should receive personalized service from your window installation contractor.

They should take the time to understand your window installation goals and communicate well with you throughout each step of the window installation process to ensure you are satisfied with the final results.

Tips For Hiring The Right Window Installation Contractor

You can ensure you choose the right window installation contractor by verifying their licensing and insurance, reviewing the cost and time estimate, reading views and having a conversation about your project goals with each prospective contractor. The following is a more in-depth description of each professional tip.

Choose A Licensed & Insured Contractor

First and foremost, it is important to choose a licensed and insured window installation contractor. If the contractor is not both licensed and insured, then you are liable for paying for any damages that may occur.

In addition, the results are less likely to be as you desire if the contractor has not gone through the proper channels to become licensed. You can simply ask the contractor about their licensing and insurance and request information if there is any doubt about their credentials.

Receive A Cost & Time Estimate

Contractors are not always able to provide an exact quote for your project. However, they should be able to give you a tentative estimate based on the type of windows, the number of new windows being installed, etc. They should also be able to provide a time estimate for the project as well. This should include when they expect the project to be finished and the hours they intend to work on the new window installation each workday.

In general, new window installations can take anywhere from a couple of days to more than a week depending on the size of the project.

Conduct A Search For References & Reviews

It is also beneficial to ask for references to previous projects. This allows you to determine the type of results you can expect based on previous clients the contractor has had. You can also ask the contractor for pictures of previous projects as well. In addition, online reviews provide you with more information about the quality of a particular contractor.

Be sure to read the feedback provided, rather than simply checking the online rating of a particular contractor. If there are concerns, then ask the contractor about it specifically.

Have A Conversation With The Window Contractor

Communication is essential. You want to ensure you hire a professional window installation contractor that communicates well and keeps you informed throughout the project. One great way to get a sense of their willingness and ability to communicate well is to have a conversation about the project with them over the phone or in person.

If the conversation goes well and their reviews suggest that they provide quality customer service and communicate well throughout the project, then this is a promising sign that the new window installation will go smoothly.

Review Multiple Quotes To Verify An Honest Price

If you receive a quote from a contractor you trust, then this last step may be optional. However, if you are unsure if your quote is fair, then you can verify an honest price by receiving multiple quotes. This allows you to compare prices. However, keep in mind that the least expensive price does not necessarily mean the most overall value. It is important to place importance on the quality of the contractor.

Windows can last for decades, and the initial investment you spend to ensure you hire the right window installation contractor will not seem nearly as important as time passes, but windows that remain in good condition long-term can ultimately save you money.

Speak With A Professional Window Installation Contractor Today

If you are interested in replacing your outdated or damaged windows, then reach out to our experienced team of window installation contractors today. We offer high-quality windows and handle the entire window installation process for you.

For more information about our professional window contractors or to schedule a window installation, give us a call at (703) 386-7357 or contact us online.

New window installation is a great way to add aesthetic value to your home, make your home feel more comfortable, and cut monthly energy costs. A new window installation can take anywhere from a couple of days to more than a week, depending on the size of the home and the number of windows installed.

However, you can ensure the process goes smoothly and that the windows are installed as quickly as possible. You can also pay a minimal cost to prepare your home before the window installation professionals arrive.

A General Overview Of The Window Installation Process

It is first helpful to understand what you can expect during new window installation. Of course, every contractor has a unique process, but there is typical process homeowners can expect:

• An inspection of the window site
• The removal of obstructions
• The laying down of dust cloths
• The removal of the windows
• The installation of the new windows

The installation professionals should provide you with additional details about the installation based on the type of windows that are being installed, etc. Be sure to ask any questions about the new window installation to learn more, particularly as it relates to preparing the work area before they begin.

5 Tips When Preparing For New Window Installation

New window installation does not have to be an inconvenience to your daily life, so long as you properly prepare ahead of time. You can prepare for new window installation by clearing your work area, providing access to your home, protecting your furniture from dust, and finding ways to conserve energy. While contractors can do many of these steps for you, taking initiative ahead of time can ensure the process is completed in a timely fashion.

1. Ensure The Work Area Is Clear

The first thing you should do after the window installation contractor provides you with a timeline for when they can complete the project is to clear the work area. They will need to move equipment in and out of the worksite, and it can make the process go faster by having a pathway cleared out for them.

The last thing you want is for the windows to be dropped and shattered. This may also include moving anything that may get damaged away from the worksite or pathway to the work area.

2. Provide Them With Access To Your Home

The window installation contractors should also have access to your home as the inability to access the home could lead to major setbacks in the installation process.

Be sure to communicate with the window contractors and determine what times they intend to come and make arrangements accordingly. If you are unable to be there, then you may need to arrange for a relative, friend, or neighbor to let the contractors in, so they can begin the installation process on time.

3. Protect Your Home From Dust

Depending on the specifics of the installation, there may be parts of the job that can become quite dirty. Professional window contractors should protect the floors and surrounding furniture by using dust covers. However, it may also help to remove or cover the surrounding furniture and floors yourself.

This ensures your home can remain as dust-free as possible during and after the new window installation process.

4. Consider Ways To Conserve Energy

The new window installation process involves removing your existing windows. Of course, when this occurs, it allows the air inside your home to leave and let outside air inside.

With this in mind, consider ways to cool or heat your home in a way that minimizes the use of your HVAC system. This can conserve energy and keep your energy costs as low as possible.

It may also help to schedule the new window installation in the spring or fall months when the weather is a little more neutral. You can also purchase fans or space heaters as well.

5. Remove Any Window Obstructions

Be sure also to remove any window obstructions that may take the project longer. This includes window curtains, interior shutters, trimming, hardware, etc. You can also remove any pictures or wall hangings that are near the window.

While this step is not particularly necessary as the installation professionals can do all this for you, it can allow the contractors to get right to work and ensure the job is done in a timely fashion. Also, removing any obstructions can protect them from collecting dust or getting damaged during the project.

Get In Touch With The Window Installation Professionals

If you would like to learn more about new window installation or when you should consider replacing your windows, then contact our professional team at Adelphia Exteriors by calling (703) 386-7357 or by scheduling a free estimate online. We take pride in helping home and business owners in our local area with window replacement. 

Our experienced team of window installation contractors can help you through every step of the process, from deciding on the right type of windows and design to ensuring that you are satisfied with the final results after the project is complete.