Before you go shopping for windows,you should familiarize yourself with some terms to help you decide.
Here is a list of some terms you will find on window labels:
- Glazing – Glazing is a bit of a misnomer, and many believe this is the glaze on the glass. In fact, glazing actually refers to the type of glass used in the window and when your windows need to be re-glazed, it means the glass panes are in need of replacement. For maximizing energy efficiency choose double pane or triple pane windows separated by an insulating gas.
- Low E – This stands for low-emission, and it represents the window’s ability to reflect heat. To do this, the glass needs a thin metallic coat. This process can be applied to preexisting windows if the frames are still in good condition. Windows made in the factory to be Low-E are more effective in this category. If you have large windows or a house with numerous or complicated window arrangements, it’s best to have a professional come coat your windows with this film.
- Gas Fills – These windows contain argon or krypton inserted between glazing layers, thus improving insulating and heat reflection abilities. However, homes at high altitude should avoid this type of window, because air pressure differences force the gas out.
- Spacers – These separate sheets of glass in a window help with insulation. How these are made and what material is used matter greatly in terms of condensation prevention and heat loss.
- Frame Materials – Frames are made from a variety of sources, including aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl, wood, or a combination. Each has their own strengths. Aluminum is light, stable, and stops sound well. Fiberglass is also stable and easy to maintain. Wood offers the classic look and is easily painted or stained. Vinyl is easy to maintain and good at insulation. However, each has its own flaws. Wood and vinyl are susceptible to moisture, while wood is hard to maintain properly, and vinyl contracts or expands with temperature changes. Aluminum conducts heat rather than reflects it, and fiberglass is expensive.
What Central Pennsylvania property owners should consider
Window Lingo is best understood in the context of the whole property, not from one symptom alone. The age of the materials, previous repairs, water-management details, installation methods, and nearby exterior components can all affect what is visible. Central Pennsylvania’s mix of heavy rain, wind, summer heat, falling leaves, freeze-thaw cycles, and winter weather can also make the same concern look different from one home or building to another.
Start with observations that can be made safely. Avoid climbing onto the roof or disturbing damaged materials. Instead, note when the concern appeared, whether it changes during particular weather, and whether it is isolated or occurring in several areas. Photographs taken from a safe location and notes about prior work can help a professional understand the history without relying on memory alone.
Details worth documenting
- visible deterioration that may extend beyond the unit itself
- interior and exterior access needed for a complete evaluation
- drafts, condensation, staining, or changes around the opening
- the age and condition of nearby roofing, siding, trim, and flashing
- how the room is used and what comfort or daylight goal matters most
These details do not replace an on-site evaluation, but they make the conversation more useful. They also help separate a maintenance item from a repair need or a larger project. A clear evaluation should explain the observed condition, the likely scope, the surrounding components that were checked, and any assumptions that could affect the recommendation.
Questions to ask before authorizing work
- How will the opening be protected during installation?
- Is the issue with the unit, the installation, or surrounding materials?
- How will flashing and water management be handled?
- What interior and exterior finishes are included?
- Will the work affect roofing, siding, trim, or insulation?
- What maintenance will the selected product require?
Ask for the proposed work in writing and compare scopes rather than price alone. Materials, labor, disposal, cleanup, ventilation, flashing, permits, warranties, and possible concealed conditions should be easy to identify. If alternatives are available, the practical differences should be explained in plain language so the decision reflects the property’s needs and the owner’s priorities.
Greenawalt Roofing serves homeowners across Central Pennsylvania. Learn about residential exterior services, review what happens during a Full Exterior Exam, browse the company’s service areas, or request a free estimate.
