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Window
Options
Your window options are numerous with the most important
and obvious being the window style itself. Below we will discuss
other options and explain how they can help the performance
and enhance the overall appearance of the window.
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| Glass
Options
GRIDS: Sometimes referred to as mutins, are placed
between the two glass panes in an insulated glass unit. Grids
give the appearance that the window pane is made up of several
"lites". Placement of the grid between the glass
allows for easy cleaning.
Choices include, size of bars in the grid, from 5/8"
to 1-1/16" width. Shape of the grid bar can be flat or
sculptured and can simulate a variety of patterns.
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| Grid
Detail |
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Internal
Flat
Grid
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Internal
Sculptured
Grid
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Grid Patterns |
Standard
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Diamond |
Custom |
Sun Burst |
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Safety Glass
TEMPERED GLASS is heat treated during manufacturing
to produce a stronger glass. Considered safety glass, Tempered
Glass is stronger than normal "heat treated" glass.
LAMINATED GLASS is where a polyurethane film
is laid between two sheets of glass during the glass production
process. If this glass breaks, it does not shatter but adheres
to the film between it. Laminated Glass also provides a sound
break with the polyurethane film acting as a noise barrier.
WIRE GLASS has a steal wire mesh laid between
two sheets of glass during the glass production process. Having
much the same effect as Laminated Glass but providing more security
at the same time. |
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Privacy
Glass
OBSCURE GLASS provides privacy where conventional
window covering are prohibitive or not desired. Most common
uses are in bathrooms or side lites to entryways. Usually
appearing as frosted and smooth one side and textured on the
other. Other options to obscure glass include, sculptured
pattern glass with an amber or gray color applied.
TINTED GLASS reduces glare and adds more
protection from UV rays. Tints can range from gray smoked
to aqua marine in color with varying degrees of UV protection
and glare reduction as well as price.
REFLECTIVE GLASS has a reflective coating
applied during the glass production process. Because they
are reflective, they reduce daylight transmission and solar
heat gain as well. Reflective type glass works with the play
of light. Example: During daylight hours you can't see inside
a building (only your reflection). At night it is the opposite,
you can see inside but from inside you can not see out.
Insulating
Glass fill
ARGON GAS is used as an insulating factor
for some models of windows. Argon is a colorless, inert gas
that has a heavier than air property to it, this decreases
heat transfer in the insulated glass unit.
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Frame Options
COLORS are limited with most windows to 2 colors,
white and beige. Windows America can offer you a painted vinyl
window in virtually any color for an additional cost. The painted
coating has a 10 year warranty from cracking, pitting, peeling,
blistering, and non-uniform fading or discoloration.
STYLES are directly related to price, some
window styles are simply more expensive to manufacture. Style
changes can offer you increased ventilation. Example: Replacing
a tall narrow fixed window with a casement window that opens.
The appearance is the same but you have gained the ability to
open that window.
MODELS can offer more features, for example:
You can find a slider window in two different models and price.
The differences can vary from mid-open latches to heavier frame
design. Your Windows America of Portland representative can
help you determine the model that fits your specific application.
MULLING is the permanent attachment of two
or more windows to make a single unit. Replacing a large picture
window with a set of double or single hung windows would require
the double/single hung windows to be mulled together to make
one unit.
Z-BAR AND NAILING FINS are added to a window
to aid in the installation. A window applied to a brick or masonry
exterior would require a different attachment mechanism than
a wood construction home. Your Windows America representative
will recommend these if needed.
FRAME COMPOSITES can offer different options.
Fiberglass frames can be painted any color. Please see "Frame
Materials" for more information on the difference in these
materials.
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