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Q.
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Why should I be concerned about windows?
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A.
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Windows can be responsible for unnecessary heat loss,
high-energy consumption and cold drafts and can be the
reason for condensation problems within homes. Windows
and the area around them are the biggest single area of
heat loss in the home.
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Q.
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How do vinyl windows compare in price with windows made
of other materials?
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A.
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Vinyl windows compare very favorably in price with
quality windows made of all other materials.
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Q.
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How do vinyl windows compare with windows made of other
materials from an operating standpoint?
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A.
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Vinyl's self-lubricating properties enhance its ability
to slide. Vinyl remains easy to operate as it does not
warp, twist, swell or otherwise distort its shape.
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Q.
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Will replacing my old windows really cut down on
my heating bills?
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A.
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Absolutly! Windows are one of the most important aspects
of regulating home temperatures. Most windows in older
homes were designed when energy was inexpensive and new
energy efficient materials were not important. Today’s
newer energy efficient windows are designed with overall
thermal efficiency in mind; keeping the heat in and the
cold out. Typically, an older home can lose up to 50
percent of its energy heat through leaky, drafty windows
and doors.
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Q.
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Are new windows a bad investment if I plan on selling my
home?
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A.
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No! In fact, not only will new windows make your home
more energy efficient and visually appealing, but they
should increase the overall value of your home.
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Q.
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How do I care for my vinyl windows?
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A.
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Vinyl windows never have to be painted. The color is
actually part of the vinyl. If your vinyl windows have
become particularly dirty, or if they are subject to
stubborn grime because of local conditions, a mild
non-abrasive detergent solution will clean your vinyl
windows to an "as-new" condition. Normally, all that is
required for thorough cleaning is a damp cloth.
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Q.
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What causes condensation on windows?
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A.
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Condensation, or "sweating," is a natural occurrence on
all windows and is caused by excess humidity, or
invisible water vapor, present in the air in your home.
When this water vapor comes in contact with a surface
which is at a cooler temperature, the vapor turns to
visible droplets of moisture.
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Q.
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What is Low E/Argon-filled glass, and how does it work?
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A.
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Low E (Emissivity) Glass is glass with a transparent
metallic oxide coating applied onto or into a glass
surface. The coating allows short-wave energy to pass
through but reflects long-wave infrared energy,
improving the U-Value. Argon Gas is an odorless,
colorless, tasteless, non-toxic gas that is six times
more dense than air. It is used to replace air between
the glass panes to reduce temperature transfer.
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Q.
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How much do vinyl windows cost?
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A.
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Price varies greatly, depending on window style, size,
features and options. In general, vinyl windows are less
expensive than comparable wood, vinyl clad wood or
aluminum frame windows.
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Q.
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When remodeling, can I get vinyl windows to fit present
openings without costly modifications?
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A.
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Affinity manufactures windows to fit any opening
dimensions ordered by you or your remodeling contractor.
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Q.
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What are R-values and U-values?
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A.
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R-value is the resistance a material has to heat flow.
The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance.
U-value is the amount of heat transferred through a
material. The lower the U-value, the slower the rate of
heat flow and the better the insulating quality.
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Q.
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What is Relative Humidity?
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A.
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When air will hold no moisture, it is said to be
saturated. Relative Humidity is the percentage of
moisture in the air in relation to complete saturation.
Example: 100% Relative Humidity would be raining. (0%
Relative Humidity would be excessively high inside
humidity. 20% Relative Humidity would be comparatively
dry air.
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Q.
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Do all of your windows come with double-pane
(thermal-pane) glass?
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A.
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Yes, all of our windows come with insulated
(double-pane) glass.
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Q.
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Do I need a professional to install my custom windows?
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A.
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It is strongly recommended that you have a professional
install your custom windows. It is critical that the
measurements of your windows be exact. Otherwise the new
windows will not fit. A professional installer will also
have the necessary tools to do the job correctly .
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Q.
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How long does it take to install new windows?
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A.
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In most cases, 10 to 15 windows can be installed per
day.
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Q.
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What about condensation between the panes of glass?
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A.
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Moisture between the panes of glass is an indication
that the seal around the windowpanes has failed. This is
an unlikely occurrence; however, if it does happen, it
is covered under your Affinity Windows warranty. We will
replace the glass with a sealed glass unit. We can also
replace seal failed glass in windows manufactured by
other companies for a nominal charge. Our insulated
glass department can replace almost any glass size,
feature or option.
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Q.
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Do you have references in my area?
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A.
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Yes. We have many references available in various areas
of the Delaware Valley. If you would like to see our
work in person please contact us.
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Q.
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How do I become a dealer for Affinity Windows?
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A.
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If you have an interest in becoming an Affinity Windows
dealer,
please contact us at 215-645-1275.
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