Replacement Windows – How can you compare quality?

You may not know it, but your windows may be your biggest problem in having an energy efficient home.  The best solution to this is finding good, high quality replacement window.  If you are going to go to the expense and stress of doing a window replacement, you want to make sure of the quality of your replacement windows. After all, you don’t want to have to replacement them again in a few years. Back in the early 1900’s such high quality materials were used that many of the windows in those houses are still in very good condition over 100 years later.  The glass package isn’t as efficient as the new technology of the present day windows, but the quality of the frame and sashes was great. It’s all about the quality, but how can you compare?

The window construction materials do make a difference. The length of the warranty will give you an indication of how long the window materials are expected to last. For example the best wood windows carry a 10 year frame and hardware warranty, while the best vinyl windows will have a lifetime warranty. To compare different vinyl windows, the University of Minnesota recommends that you buy certified products. There are two independent testing associations, that have certification programs, recommended by the University by name. This is the best way to find the best window for your money.  No matter what the salesman will try and convince you of, use these facts and certifications as your authority.

The very best replacement windows are the ones certified by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The AAMA gold label is considered the top standard since they test the quality of the material, how the materials are assembled, and the integrity of the finished product.  The testing is done randomly and very rigorous.  When a replacement window manufacturer decides to have the AAMA certify their window a contract is signed that allows AAMA unannounced, random access to their production line. This ensures that you will get only the best quality and that the window you are buying meets strict quality standards.Without this AAMA Gold Label certification you don’t really know what the quality of the window is and will have a very hard time comparing the quality of the windows you are considering. Stay away from windows that aren’t certified by AAMA.

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) focuses their testing on energy efficiency.  This means they test and determine the U-factor of the window. The U-factor is the window’s ability to keep heat inside your home in the winter. The lower the number, the less energy it took to keep the home warm. This testing takes into consideration the efficiency of the whole window, which includes the glass, the frame, air infiltration and other factors.

You want to find windows with both certifications to know you are getting the best.  Both associations install a label on window.  The AAMA gold label will be attached to the window frame, usually in the header of the frame. The NFRC label is applied to the glass and will be removed when cleaning the replacement windows after installation. You should save a couple of these for proof of the windows efficiency level when you resell your home.