What time of year is the best time to replace your windows? We don’t think there's really a wrong answer there but records show that many people will look to the end of fall to replace their windows before those chilly winter months set in.  

Up until recently, if you needed windows made, your contractor went to their local replacement window manufacturer and got your custom windows made within a few weeks of your order. Now, in this age of convenience, you can head over to your closest big box home improvement store and get your windows there the same day. But, is cheap and fast really worth the cost?

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has recently said that there is a growing market for those who are willing and able to retrofit older buildings to be more energy efficient. Advocating for transparency in performance rating and asset ratings, the WEF predicts an increase in demand for energy efficiency.

Sometimes, measuring storm windows can be a tricky endeavor; with many companies and contractors using different terms and techniques, we thought we’d set the record straight and give you our crash course in how we do it with our XL400 model.

The purpose of the NFRC Label is to be able to compare all windows on an even playing field. This sticker will show you how the window preforms in several categories relating to the windows energy efficiency. These numbers are taken directly from the laboratory performance tests on the windows frame, glass, and spacers that separate the individual glass panels. 

Although demand for siding still trails the 2000 high, it is expected to have a steady rise from now until 2015. There is even a 7% annual growth expected for the industrial side of the building industry.

Window glass was revolutionized in the 1970′s. Insulated glass (two or more pieces of glass with a dead air space between) made its debut in the early 70′s. Low E glass was introduced in 1979. The E stands for emissivity. Low E glass works by reflecting heat back to its source. It does this by utilizing an ultra thin metallic coating on or in the glass.

The EPA has improved and updated its search tool for EPA-certified RRP firms, allowing the public to search by firm name, as well as by location. You can find the search tool by clicking here. EPA-certified firms should encourage their potential customers to use this search tool to check the certification status of firms they are considering hiring.

In addition, EPA has updated its database of Frequent Question (FQ) about the RRP Rule to reflect recent regulatory changes that took effect on October 5, 2011. The searchable database can be located by clicking here.

Here at Mercury, we're proud to be a part of the Efficient Windows Collaborative. The Efficient Windows Collaborative (EWC) is a consortium of manufacturers, home performance contractors, research organizations and others dedicated to increasing the market share of high-efficiency windows in both the residential and commercial sectors.

Vinyl Is Final

While there are many options to choose from when selecting material for your windows, vinyl still reigns supreme.  With its virtually maintenance free exterior to its dependable energy efficiency, these windows will provide you with all that you’re looking for in a quality product, and more!