We Do WIndows Right!

Only exceptionally old homes have single pane windows, as they are not energy-efficient by any means. To keep the cost of repairs low, these windows were usually divided into small panes so that if, for some reason, a pane was cracked or broken, only that small pane needed to be replaced. Then came dual-paned windows, usually filled with a pressurized gas such as nitrogen or argon. (Some window manufacturers even make triple-paned windows, for those who desire increased energy efficiency.)

People had become so used to seeing the small pane design, that window manufacturers chose to give new dual-paned windows the look of the old-style single pane windows while providing the energy-efficiency of a dual-paned window. Essentially, they installed fake dividers simply for that appearance.

In times past, nearly all windows had a divider between the two panes that would give it the old-style appearance . . . take a look at the "before" image here and you will see the fake dividers that were between the panes to give it that look. For some reason, it is human nature to want to cling to that which is familiar. However, now most home owners prefer new windows that are dual-pane without the dividers, as it allows a more unbostructed view of the yard and neighborhood. If you look at the "after" picture below, you will see that the new windows installed did not have the fake dividers between the two panes. You may also notice that the windows installed used tinted glass which provides two major advantages:

1) It prevents sunlight from entering the home with the intensity of untinted windows, yet, when someone from the inside of the home looks out, it looks as if they are looking through nearly clear glass. The tint can only be seen from the outside, not the inside (only a slight tint might be perceived, but most don't even notice any). This significantly increases the energy efficiency of the new widows, but does not obstruct the view of the residents who can see out the windows perfectly.

2) As we point out above, the tint creates a dark appearance from those driving in front of the home or walking through the neighborhood. The only way to look into the home during the day is to stand in front of the window up close, which provides increased safety for the occupants. Even with lights on inside the home, those passing by cannot peer into the home from the street.

Cleaning windows has always been challenging with the older windows. You see, they are installed in tracks that only allow them to slide upward and downward. As such, the only way to clean the windows on the outside would be to get out the ladder to reach the second floor windows. Not so with new windows. As you can see in the image on the right, these widows have track releases that allow them to be tilted in 90 degrees so you can easily clean both the inside and outside. By sliding the top down a few inches the upper track releases allow them to tilt in 90 degrees, as well. Cleaning windows have never been easier.

In addition, the screens on old-style windows weere fixed in place and usually locked into place only for the lower window. These had to be removed to access the lower windows from the outside. However, new windows have sliding screens that enable you to clean easy to acccess windows from the outside, if desired, without tilting the windows inside to clean them. This also enables people to slide the screen up and lower the top window down to let fresh air come in during the Spring and Fall when the temperatures outside are cool, even if it is raining heavily outside, as the overhang of the roof may prevent the rain from coming into an upper window opened by sliding it down the tracks.

Are you considering installing new windows. In the past, the government even provides tax breaks for those who invest in installing energy-efficient windows (check with you accountant for the current allowances). The reduced energy bills also are a great incentive, not to mention the added beauty the new windows bring to your home.

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