Q: What is a replacement window?
A: A replacement window is a window that's custom built to fit within the opening of an existing window. It's built to fit precisely and can be installed without disturbing the interior and exterior areas around the window.

Q: How can I tell if I need new windows?
A: Here are some sure signs that your old windows need to be replaced:

	Difficult to open or close
	Drafty, with air leaking through or around the window
	Excessive condensation or icing on the inside of the window panes
	Windows rattle in the wind
	Paint chipping or peeling
	House is always too cold in winter - or too hot in summer

Q: What causes condensation on the inside of my windows?
A: Condensation is a natural occurrence on all windows and is caused by humidity, or invisible water vapor, present in the air. When this water vapor comes in contact with a surface that is cooler, the vapor turns into droplets of moisture.
Michaels Construction windows have built-in features to keep the temperature of the glass as warm as possible and thus reduce condensation. Our insulated glass provides superior energy efficiency to reduce the potential for condensation. However, there is no such thing as a condensation-free window in high humidity conditions. Controlling the amount of moisture in your home is the most effective action you can take to avoid condensation.

Q: How can I tell if a window is energy efficient?
A: Check the window's NFRC rating label. The NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) is an independent testing organization that rates the "U-Factor" for replacement windows. This is a measurement of the window's ability to resist the transfer of heat and cold. U-Factor is the amount of heat transferred through a material. The lower the U-Factor, the slower the rate of heat flow and the better the insulating quality.

Q: What is Soft-Coat LowE glass?
A: Soft-Coat LowE (emissivity) glass uses a metallic coating on the inside surfaces of the glass, reflecting UV and infrared light away from the windows. This causes less furniture fading and keeps your home cooler in the summer heat.
In the winter, all objects in your home are heated by sunlight or your heating system. As this heat is radiated by the objects towards the windows it is reflected back into your house by the low-E glass, helping to keep your energy bills lower year-round.

Q: What are the advantages of custom replacement windows over pre-made, standard-size windows?
A: Because custom windows are made to fit perfectly, they provide the best energy efficiency and can be installed much more easily and with very little mess. Also, because of the myriad of options available that affect appearance and efficiency, custom windows allow consumers to get exactly the windows they need or want.
Standard windows sometimes cost less in the beginning, but other expenses and factors-like additional labor and the disruption to the home-far outweigh the original savings. For example, installing stock windows often requires that you add brick or siding to the exterior, and drywall or other materials to the interior of your home.

Q: Will replacement windows really pay for themselves?
A: If you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows, your windows will "pay back" your investment in savings you will realize with lower heating and cooling bills. Engineered and well-built windows have been proven to lower home energy consumption.

Q: How should I maintain and clean my Michaels Construction windows?
A: Michaels Construction windows are easy to keep to clean, and require practically no maintenance. Use any window cleaner to clean the glass surface.

Have more questions? We'd be happy to answer them!
A free estimate can be obtained by calling us at (408) 292- 4999.