Copyright © 2006 A.S.K. Construction, Inc. All rights reserved.
Windows
In older homes, windows are often one of the largest sources of heat loss in the winter due to their low insulating ability and high air leakage rates. Windows are also generally the major source of unwanted heat gain in the summer. As a result, windows are typically net energy losers, and can be responsible for 10 to 25 percent of the energy used to heat and cool homes. However, improved windows, combined with proper consideration of their placement and other details, can result in windows that provide a net energy gain.
Whether you are replacing windows or adding new windows, some of the basic factors to consider include when selecting a window
* U Factor
* SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Co-efficient)
* Visible Transmittance (VT)
* Air Leakage
* Glazing Type
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC – www.nfrc.org) operates a voluntary certification program for windows that documents three measured criteria corresponding to each of these heat loss and gain methods: U-factor, air leakage, and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). In addition, NFRC labels the visible transmittance (VT) of the window.
A.S.K. Construction Inc. uses NFRC rated windows in new and existing buildings. We suggest for our customers to install energy efficient windows. With over 18 years experience our work is carried out to the highest standards by our team of skilled craftsmen.
Storm or Thermal doors
In addition to their obvious function of providing entry to or from the home, doors also function as part of the thermal envelope or shell of the home. Like other components of the shell, doors are subject to several types of heat loss: conduction, infiltration, and radiant losses.
Conduction losses can be minimized in several ways, depending on the existing door type and the home's aesthetics. A wooden door can be made more energy efficient by adding a storm door. Like a storm window, a storm door works by creating an insulating air space between the storm and primary doors. A tight-fitting storm door can also help reduce air leakage or infiltration. If the primary door is fiberglass or metal with vinyl coating or trim, a glass storm door may not be the best option. Heat from the sun can be trapped by the glass and damage the plastic or vinyl. If a storm door is unacceptable for aesthetic or other reasons, installing an insulated metal door is the best option. Insulated metal doors have a core filled with either fiberglass or rigid foam insulation. They are more durable than wood and provide better security.
The R-values for different door types.
Single Pane Glass - 0.9
Double Pane Glass - 2.0
Hollow Wood - 2.0
Solid Wood - 3.0
Hollow Metal - 2.0
Insulated Metal - 4.0-8.0
Infiltration losses can also be reduced with an insulated or thermal door. Insulated metal doors do not warp, shrink, or swell with temperature or humidity changes. This means that they can be installed to a much tighter fit without interfering with their operation. They often incorporate magnetic-type weatherstripping, similar to the seal on a refrigerator door. Both of these factors combine to cut air leakage substantially. If a wooden door is preferred, a tight-fitting storm door, combined with good weatherstripping, will help.
Radiant losses occur primarily through glass. When possible, the use of glass in doors should be minimized or avoided. If glass is used, double-paned or double-paned Low-E glass should be consider.
For more information about windows and doors installation contact info@askconstruction.com
In addition to their obvious function of providing entry to or from the home, doors also function as part of the thermal envelope or shell of the home. Like other components of the shell, doors are subject to several types of heat loss: conduction, infiltration, and radiant losses.
Conduction losses can be minimized in several ways, depending on the existing door type and the home's aesthetics. A wooden door can be made more energy efficient by adding a storm door. Like a storm window, a storm door works by creating an insulating air space between the storm and primary doors. A tight-fitting storm door can also help reduce air leakage or infiltration. If the primary door is fiberglass or metal with vinyl coating or trim, a glass storm door may not be the best option. Heat from the sun can be trapped by the glass and damage the plastic or vinyl. If a storm door is unacceptable for aesthetic or other reasons, installing an insulated metal door is the best option. Insulated metal doors have a core filled with either fiberglass or rigid foam insulation. They are more durable than wood and provide better security.
The R-values for different door types.
Single Pane Glass - 0.9
Double Pane Glass - 2.0
Hollow Wood - 2.0
Solid Wood - 3.0
Hollow Metal - 2.0
Insulated Metal - 4.0-8.0
Infiltration losses can also be reduced with an insulated or thermal door. Insulated metal doors do not warp, shrink, or swell with temperature or humidity changes. This means that they can be installed to a much tighter fit without interfering with their operation. They often incorporate magnetic-type weatherstripping, similar to the seal on a refrigerator door. Both of these factors combine to cut air leakage substantially. If a wooden door is preferred, a tight-fitting storm door, combined with good weatherstripping, will help.
Radiant losses occur primarily through glass. When possible, the use of glass in doors should be minimized or avoided. If glass is used, double-paned or double-paned Low-E glass should be consider.
For more information about windows and doors installation contact info@askconstruction.com
A.S.K. CONSTRUCTION INC.
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save energy and money
