:: Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can I get more information and literature about Vinyl Design Window products?
A. We will help you find a dealer in your area that carries our products, and can supply you with information, specs, colors and a brochure. Please see our dealer request form, or call us.
Q. How can I get a price list for Vinyl Design’s products?
A. Consumer pricing information is available through your local dealer.
Q. What are U-Values and R-Values?
A. U-Values are the amount of heat transferred through materials. R-Values are the resistance that materials have to heat flow. Low U-Values mean more efficient insulation quality and a slower rate of heat flow. High R-Values mean high resistance. Energy efficient doors and windows have high R-Values and low U-values. See NFRC Ratings chart for additional info.
Q. What is Low “E”/Argon-filled glass, and what does it do?
A. Low “E” (Emissivity) glass improves the U-Value with a special surface coat that reflects long-wave infrared energy and allows short-wave energy to pass through. The same Low “E” coating also helps keep the heat inside your home, away from the windows, so winters will be warm and cozy. Argon replaces the air between glass panes which reduces temperature transfer resulting in improved thermal efficiency.
Q. How do Vinyl Design products perform when compared to AAMA and NFRC standards?
A. Vinyl is committed to providing the best possible air, thermal, water, operating force and structural performance in each product line. The standards of the AAMA and NFRC compares favorably with Vinyl Design test data.
Q. How does insulating glass improve the quality of Vinyl Design products?
A. Insulating glass reduces condensation, keeps heat in and cold out during winter months, keeps heat out and cold in during summer months, and improves the U- and R-values.
Q. How do vinyl windows compare with windows made from other materials, such as wood and aluminum?
A. Vinyl costs less to produce and performs favorably in comparison to other building materials such as wood and aluminum. Vinyl also offers low maintenance, excellent thermal efficiency and recyclability. When cared for properly, vinyl retains a new appearance and will not peel. Vinyl Design’s vinyl compound has extra UV inhibitors to withstand hard winters.
| VINYL | ALUMINUM |
|---|---|
| Will not rot, rust, pit or corrode. | Will scratch and oxidize. |
| Ultra-violet inhibitors prevent fading and discoloration. Virtually maintenance-free. | Can discolor, and fade. Regular maintenance, and touchup required. |
| Energy loss: 1.3 BTU’s per hour(over 1,000 times less) | Energy loss: 1,416 BTU’s per hour |
| Mullion u-brackets secure panels togetherare hidden to make a smoother view. | Uses hundreds of visible sheet metal screws. |
| Hidden brackets and exterior drainskeep the vinyl unaffected by rain. | Screws on the exterior can causerust streaks from rain run-off. |
| Warm in the winter, and cool in the summer. | Warm in the summer, and cool in the winter. |
Q. I plan to have Vinyl Design windows installed in my new or existing home. How can I be sure the contractor, remodeler or window installer is qualified to install Vinyl Design windows?
A. The Better Business Bureau is a great resource to make sure your Vinyl Design windows will be installed by a qualified professional. You can also ask your remodeler, dealer or contractor for references.
Q. What are egress requirements?
A. Egress requirements represent minimum window opening sizes that meet local building codes.
Q. What do I do if I have an issue covered by my warranty?
A. Your qualified Vinyl Design installer will help you assess the situation and determine a course of action, so contact him/her first. The dealer can also be a good resource to help you resolve any issues. Bes sure to send in the warranty registration card when you first install your windows - we must receive it within 15 days of installation. If you did not receive a warranty card, you may download our warranty here. If you still require more assistance, please contact us.
Q. How is condensation reduced in my Vinyl Design windows my windows?
A. Our windows are built to help reduce condensation, using a no-metal, warm-edge spacing system called SuperSpacer®. In your home, controlling moisture will also help. You can do this by using fans to circulate air, opening windows and doors, and using a dehumidifier in problem areas.
Q. How can I help maintain the quality and beauty of my new Vinyl Design windows and doors?
A. Simple cleaning procedures ensure that Vinyl Design products will remain beautiful for years to come. Vinyl is cleaned easily with mild detergent. If this doesn’t work, use stronger household cleaners on the chart below. You can also use a midly abrasive cleanser such as Soft Scrub, but this could scratch the glass and frames. It is important to never use strong detergents containing organic solvents, liquid grease remover, furniture polish remover, nail polish remover, or bleach. Refrain from washing windows with high pressure spray, as this could damage the product.
| Cleansers to Remove Stains From Vinyl Window and Door Frames | |
|---|---|
| Bubble Gum | Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water, Windex® |
| Crayon | Lestoil® |
| DAP(oil-based caulk) | Fantastik® |
| Felt-tip Pen | Fantastik®, water based cleansers |
| Grass | Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Lipstick | Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap® |
| Lithium Grease | Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Mold & Mildew | Fantastik®, solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water, Windex® |
| Motor Oil | Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Oil | Soft Scrub® |
| Paint | Brillo® Pad |
| Pencil | Soft Scrub® |
| Rust | Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Tar | Soft Scrub® |
| Top Soil | Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap® |
Q. How do I maintain the brass hardware's appearance on my new Vinyl Design windows?
A.Brass hardware is easy to maintain and will keep the original luster if properly maintained. A dry, soft cotton cloth can be used to remove any dust or dirt on the hardware.
You may notice tarnish or dark spots on the hardware over time. You can easily refinish the components with these easy to follow instructions:
- Clean dust and dirt from the hardware and remove from the window
- Soak fine steel wool in soapy water and scrub the hardware gently
- Polish the hardware with any commercial polish
- Coat the hardware with automobile wax to re-apply the protective laquer