Window installers have gotten in trouble for overstating the effects of windows on home energy performance (see “Sell the Facts on Energy Savings,” REPLACEMENT CONTRACTOR, 6/11). But the fact remains, energy efficiency is a good hook for selling windows. This is particularly true for occupants of older homes where drafty windows create real comfort problems and heighten concerns about energy-use. As U.S. energy independence grows, energy concerns will only continue to expand in the window market.
Enter the advanced window technology developed in Europe over the last few decades: In JLC's "A Look Through European Windows," Steve Baczek gives us a tour of a European window manufacturer that gives a snapshot of the state-of-the-art in window technology today. The key features are tilt-turn operation and low U-values afforded by triple-pane glazing. (and, yes, these units get super heavy, so installers be warned).
This "Euro-style window" is gaining ground, and gradually finding it’s way into the U.S. window market. Here are some of the U.S. window makers currently offering high-performance, tilt-turn units:
- Wisconsin-based Wasco offers European windows with U-values as low as 0.14.
These units are made in Milwaukee from German, U.S. and Canadian components.
- Kolbe’s Ultra Series combines American flush-to-frame design
with European tilt-turn functionality and advanced low-E triple-pane glass.
- Marvin offers a line of “Tilt Turn” windows (which they
unfortunately also group with “hopper” windows, making them sound like
something suitable only basements). These are premium window with triple-pane glass and U-values less than
0.2.
- Jeld-Wen offers “custom wood” tilt turn windows. These are only available with double-pane glass, but come in a wide range of frame colors and glass options.
- Pella offers tilt-turn units in its “specialty windows” category. These are currently only available with double-pane glass. However, advanced low-e triple pane glass is available for Pella’s Designer Series, Pella 350 Series windows and patio doors, and Pella 250 Series windows.
