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Bob Crager
Bob Crager of Lewis Street Glass is a 26 year veteran in the glass business. Lewis Street Glass is a leading Wichita Glass company, serving the entire Wichita/Sedgwick County area since 1919. They do anything and everything having to do with glass, both residential and commercial. They also do Auto glass. They are located at 743 South Market, facing Kellogg on the South, and you can reach them by phone at (316) 263-8259. You can email Bob Crager at bcrager@lewisstreetglass.com
Glass
2004-01-01 12:02:00
Getting more “energy efficient”
: How does one go about finding 'energy efficient' residential windows and performing other 'energy efficient' procedures?
ANSWER: Several characteristics of windows affect their efficiency. Features that reduce winter heat loss (lower U-factors) include: insulated glazing units ("IG units"), with two or more panes; "low-e" (low-emittance) coatings, which minimize thermal radiation; low-conductance gas fills (usually argon or krypton); and low thermal conductance spacers and window frames. Weatherstripping in operable windows, or windows that open, reduces air leakage (AL), which will soon be rated on NFRC labels (look for AL ratings of 0.30 or below). Energy-efficient windows also minimize occupant discomfort and decrease condensation. An effective strategy to reduce summer heat gain is the use of windows with low-e coatings, especially spectrally selective low-e coatings, which reduce SHGCs and U-factors, but not visible light or color. Tinted windows may also reduce solar heat gain, although they transmit less visible light. Visible transmittance (VT) will also be rated on NFRC labels; windows with VT values below 0.5 reduce light transmission noticeably. To prevent air infiltration when outside temperatures are extreme, keep windows tightly closed and locked; this saves energy as well as preventing drafts. Interior shades and blinds can also help reduce unwanted solar heat gain. It's a good idea to physically inspect your windows each year to see if dry rot or any other deterioration has begun to develop in the frames. These problems are easier to correct if detected early as opposed to later. When thermopane windows lose their seal, and begin to show signs of moisture or clouding, it's time to replace the glass unit with a new one, which can be accomplished by contacting your glass dealer with the kind and size of window you have. Sometimes the glass professional will need to come by and measure the size and determine the type of window for you to avoid mistakes. Since windows make up the single largest area of heat loss and gain in the walls of your home, it's a good idea to make certain they're in good shape. For more information about the types of glass and installations for both residential and commercial applications, as well as pricing for both, contact your local glass dealer.
 
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