Bay and Bow Windows

Condensation is appearing on your windows because they are better insulated! Water vapor occurs naturally in your home. It is trapped indoors because when your windows are closed, they offer a perfect seal. When the vapor comes into contact with a cold surface (e.g. mirrors, windows), it condenses into a liquid. The more your home is insulated, the more you must ensure proper and adequate ventilation.

Low Emissive or “Low-E” glass has a special thin-film metallic or oxide coating on its interior surface, which allows the passage of short-wave solar energy (light) but prevents the passage of long-wave energy (heat) from the sun or heating systems through the glass. Low-E glass thus allows light to enter while also providing thermal insulation. This type of glass cuts the loss of heat during the winter and cuts the absorption of heat during the summer by reflecting the heat back to its source, thus providing year-round savings by lowering utility bills. Low-E glass also selectively filters the sun’s energy, blocking up to 84% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays in the summer, thereby reducing the degree of fading of upholstery, carpet and drapes. Low E also reduces heating costs reflecting room side heat back into the room resulting in a lower winter U-value.

Argon is a safe, odourless, colourless, non-toxic, non-flammable inert gas commonly used in place of air between the glass panes of an insulated Low-E glass unit. Argon’s heat conductivity is lower than that of air, and thus it is a better insulator and contributes to a lower U-factor. Argon is not an effective solar performer by itself; that is why it is only used in conjunction with Low-E glass.

• Difficult to open or close
• 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