How to tell differences in window materials?

[Scott R Marshall]

Okay wood and aluminum (metal) windows are easy enough to figure out. But what is a tangible difference that an appraiser can identify between fiberglass and vinyl? Low-E vs. a typical thermal window?

Once again, thanks in advance!!!!

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

Sounds like a good topic for a continuing education program.

 

[Papoua Jose]

If it melts, it's vinyl.

 

[Mr Rex]

Vinyl and fiberglass typically have a different feel and also a different sound when tapped. You can use a lighter to see if there is a low e coating. Hold it up to the glass and look at the reflection from each of the panes, they will look the same if no coating and have a different color on the second pane if there is a coating (its on the inside of the panes). They do make a meter that tests for low e. They are often used by the energy audit folks.

 

[Terrel L. Shields]

Vinyl Clad wood and Vinyl windows are not easy to differentiate. I simply call them "vinyl clad" if I cannot tell.

 

[Restrain]

Realistically, most new or replacement windows are low-E. BTW, if replacing windows, do not get the additional sun coverings on low-E windows. Not needed and a waste of money. Stick to metal or vinyl, insulated or uninsulated.

 

[Mike Kennedy]

http://www.efficientwindows.org/lowe.cfm

http://www.efficientwindows.org/selection.cfm

http://www.finehomebuilding.com/how-to/articles/understanding-energy-efficient-windows.aspx

 

[rbrienza]

Fiberglass and vinyl windows have a different feel to them and also sound different when tapped. Low e windows will have a color variation also look in the corner of the window on the glass there will be a marking stating that it is low e.

Spend some time at a few home improvement centers -- I use to manage the doors and windows department at Home Depot. I liked it when people would come and ask questions (just not on a weekend). (Gas filled windows have a diminishing return - the gas leaks out over time - approximately 10 years)

Ray

 

[Mile High Trout]

(Gas filled windows have a diminishing return - the gas leaks out over time - approximately 10 years)

Good points.

And the next question is where was the window manufactured?

For CO at least, much of the gas filled came from lower elevation manufacturing points.

That means when they bring them to the high country, the pressure balances are off from the start. Lots of old homes had that interior glaze or calcification thing going on when the seals gave way.

There are a few of them that manufacture high altitude for these parts, they have longer life spans.

But regardless of what they paid, it's a market standard sort of thing. The guy who spends a fortune more on windows won't necessarily see a marked increase in current value. However, he surely will see a more reliable reduction in future upkeep costs. While everyone else is swapping windows, he'll still be looking mean and lean. Similar to hand paint vs spray sort of issue.

 

[sputnam]

And the next question...the only one that really matters...is there a monetary difference in market reaction for vinyl clad versus all wood windows or versus whatever kind of window? If not, it's kind of irrelevant, huh?