Get Clear Windows Window Company FAQ's

The components of a more efficient window are: welding, foam fill and  the types of glass used. Double pane Low-E glass with argon gas is the  first line of upgrade. The most efficient glass is triple pane low-E  with krypton gas. All windows are rated with a U value to determine  their efficiency.​ 

Every window has an Energy Star label. The top left hand corner of the  sticker is the windows U value. This number is the only criteria for  accepetance into the Energy Star program. To convert the U value into an  R rating, this is the formula. R = 1/u. This R rating is the same  system used to evaluate insulation.​

In 2015, the qualifications for the Energy Star program increased from a  R 3 to an R 3.75. In order to have the Energy Star label, the window  must be at least rated at an R 3.75.​

Windows that have achieved an R 5 or better rating receive the "most  efficient" qualification. Vinyl windows can achieve a R 5.88 rating  whereas most wood windows are not able to achieve even a R 4 efficiency  rating. This is the way for the Energy Star program to recognize the  superior efficiency performance of vinyl windows yet allow the wood  window industry to still qualify for the Energy Star program.​

While vinyl windows have been considered lesser quality than wood  windows in the past, today's technologies have turned the table. Vinyl  windows are not only much more efficient, the industry has advanced the  beauty and performance by offering a multitude of options. Such as: wood  graining, miter formed edges, wood style grid options and infinite  number of color choices.​

No.  Since the Energy Star label is on the window, you know the  efficiency of the window without a full demonstration.  The Energy Star  label has acted as our own industry "consumer reports" performed by the NFRC.org, an independent testing organization for Energy Star.​

We all know Anderson and Marvin. These companies have built their  reputation nationally in the new construction industry. Vinyl windows  traditionally are regional operations. Interestingly the vinyl window  manufacturers have been in this market for many years and the wood  manufacturers are actually newcomers to the replacement market.​

With Get Clear Windows LLC we strive to give you the most value for all  levels of window. Always choose the best window that your budget  allows.​