What is True Square welding?
Most vinyl window manufacturers use 2-point welders to fuse the vinyl components of their windows. USA Windows uses a robotically controlled full four-point welder. This process ensures that each window is welded on all four corners, at the same time. This step absolutely ensures a true square window. The weld at the corner is actually stronger than the window itself.

Why should I buy custom replacement windows?
Custom windows are designed and manufactured for a perfect fit. And that means less air infiltration and a more uniform appearance compared to stock windows.

What’s the difference between vinyl, wood, & aluminum windows?
Vinyl is an excellent insulator versus aluminum which is a major source of lost energy. Wood windows may swell and shrink when the temperature and humidity shifts from season to season. Wood windows require routine maintenance.

Do I lose any volume of glass when I replace my windows?
USA Windows are unique in that they don’t use a step jamb. All other windows do which results in uneven sash sizes with the top sash being smaller than the bottom. Some window manufacturers will try to cover up this weakness by making the bottom sash frame thicker to line up with the top one. USA Windows have more square inches of glass per opening than most other window companies.

Is putty and tape still used to hold the glass in place?
Very few windows are made with two-sided tape or putty due to improvements in technology. New technology includes an automated silicone glazing system (Auto Glazers). The glass and sash are securely bonded to provide a better seal and create a stronger one-piece window unit. The process eliminates areas where air or water can penetrate around the glass unit and into your home.

Are replacement windows secure?
Yes. USA Windows are steel reinforced on the meeting sash rails, making them stronger and more durable. Locking heavy-duty extruded screens make entry from the outside less inviting. Sash vent latches allow for consistent ventilation, but when needed, they make the sashes unable to be fully opened for exit or entry. The deep heavy duty rail interlock hold the sashes together when closed, making forced entry more difficult from the outside.

What is a "U-factor"?
U-Factor measures the total energy efficiency of windows, including the glass and frame unit. The lower the U-Factor, the window’s insulating ability.

What is more important R-Value or U-Factor?
R-Value stands for thermal resistance and is typically measured in the center of the glass only. R-Value does not measure the window unit’s overall efficiency. U-Factor is a more important factor when evaluating energy efficiency. You shouldn’t consider a window with a U-Factor over a .22.

Is all Low-E glass the same?
No. Low-E stands for low emissivity. There are two major types of Low-E glass. Hard-coat Low-E is a tin-based coating applied while the sheet of glass is still soft during the manufacturing process. Soft-coat Low-E is a silver-based coating that is sputter coated, similar to chrome plating the bumper of a car. Both block radiant heat by keeping the heat outside in the summer and keeping inside during the winter. That is where the similarities end. USA Windows uses only soft-coat Low-E glass because it gives better glass clarity and significant insulation.

Are all spacer systems the same?
No. When considering an insulated glass unit, the spacer is one of the most important parts of the entire glass system. The spacer bar separates the sheets of glass, which creates the all important “dead air space” between the panes. Most spacer bars are aluminum, with joints that are prone to failure, allowing outside air to mix with the air or gasses between the panes of glass. This will ruin the energy efficiency of the window, not to mention spoiling the view.

Why use exotic gases in the glass?
Argon and Krypton gas are used to add energy-efficient properties inside the airspace, between the panes of window glass. Because these gases are heavier than air, they provide greater resistance to heat and cold conduction through a glass unit. These gases exist naturally in the air we breathe and are safe to use within insulated gas units.

Is it possible to get the look of wood without the hassle?
Yes. USA Windows offers paintable stainable options with SimLam, a synthetic laminate available in pine or oak grains. Or we have WoodLam, a real wood laminate. Both products, when properly finished present the real look of wood with out the maintenance.

What warranty information should I consider when buying replacement windows?
Warranty considerations are one of the most important variables to consider when replacing windows. Careful attention should be given not only to the general warranty but to the glass package as well. Lifetime isn’t always lifetime. It usually means what the manufacturer feels is the average time that someone will live in the home. Also a warranty is meaningless unless the company has some longevity to prove that they will be around to honor the warranty USA Windows offers a true lifetime guarantee covering materials and labor on frames and working parts, and a 30 year limited guaranty on the glass packages.