Replacement Windows-Phase 2
#1
03-20-05, 07:22 AM
Join Date: Feb 2005
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Replacement Windows-Phase 2
I need advice on replacement windows. My home is apprx 40 yrs old and had 27 conventional single pane windows. This fall I replaced 12 windows with the gas filled double pane replacement windows(9 of the windows on a drafty sunporch that is located North Side of home). Without naming the manufacturer, these windows have a coating called Solarban. I am getting ready for the 2nd phase of my window update. Generally speaking, I am satisfied with the first installation-phase 1. My question is this. Are these gas filled windows really effective and what do you think of Solarban? I am thinking about just getting the same replacement windows minus the gas filled and Solarban? Would save about $50-60/window. Thanks for your advice and reply.
#2
03-20-05, 11:55 AM
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Without knowing the exact style of Solarban you have, it's hard to give you specific advice... but I found a website that has an easy to understand chart that might help you to make a comparison. It can be found at http://www.dovewindows.com/glass/sun1000.htm
The most important figures to look at on the chart are "center of glass u-value", and how that relates to the "winter indoor glass temperature", which is generally tested when the indoor temperature is 70F, but the outside temperature is 0F.
You will easily be able to tell that clear/clear IGUs are inferior to low-e (Solarban) IGUs, and that the argon gas adds to the efficiency of the glass. U-values might be hard to understand, since it's hard to gauge how much better a .24 or .30 window is over a .49 window. But when you realize that you are talking about a 9 to 12 degree difference in temperature, that's huge. $50 to $60 per window is a lot to spend when you're talking about 20+ windows... but you need to figure out if it's worth it. How long will you be in this house? Will heating prices get cheaper in the future?
You might be able to dicker with them on the price somewhat... tell them if they come down a little bit on the Solarban price you might go with it, otherwise you'll shop around.
But in my opinion, the better glass is definately worth it. Getting a window without today's technology would be akin to buying a car without air-conditioning even though you live in Arizona.
The most important figures to look at on the chart are "center of glass u-value", and how that relates to the "winter indoor glass temperature", which is generally tested when the indoor temperature is 70F, but the outside temperature is 0F.
You will easily be able to tell that clear/clear IGUs are inferior to low-e (Solarban) IGUs, and that the argon gas adds to the efficiency of the glass. U-values might be hard to understand, since it's hard to gauge how much better a .24 or .30 window is over a .49 window. But when you realize that you are talking about a 9 to 12 degree difference in temperature, that's huge. $50 to $60 per window is a lot to spend when you're talking about 20+ windows... but you need to figure out if it's worth it. How long will you be in this house? Will heating prices get cheaper in the future?
You might be able to dicker with them on the price somewhat... tell them if they come down a little bit on the Solarban price you might go with it, otherwise you'll shop around.
But in my opinion, the better glass is definately worth it. Getting a window without today's technology would be akin to buying a car without air-conditioning even though you live in Arizona.
#3
03-21-05, 04:02 AM
Solarban 60 is PPG's version of a dual-silver layer coated LowE...akin to Cardinal's LowE2 (squared).
With two silver coatings in the LowE, the product has significantly improved SHG (solar heat gain) performance and better overall U value numbers.
I agree with XSleeper that you would be doing yourself a great disservice if you didn't spend the few extra dollars and get the coating.
Some people will suggest that the gas infill is less important depending on your environment, but it really shouldn't be a significant amount of the cost upgrade.
I would also talk with the window company and see how much they are willing to negotiate.
With two silver coatings in the LowE, the product has significantly improved SHG (solar heat gain) performance and better overall U value numbers.
I agree with XSleeper that you would be doing yourself a great disservice if you didn't spend the few extra dollars and get the coating.
Some people will suggest that the gas infill is less important depending on your environment, but it really shouldn't be a significant amount of the cost upgrade.
I would also talk with the window company and see how much they are willing to negotiate.
