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I bought (4) 5-0 x 4-0 vinyl dual pane windows late last year for a remodel that was scheduled for this spring. When I ran plans through the City, they claim that new engery laws require Low-E in all remodel projects. I missed that one!! (Else I would have raised some stink!) So now I am stuck with these windows unless someone knows how to “Fix them” I know that Low-E is a coating that is put onto the inside of the Dual glass and that the gas inside has some bearing on it but…WhatdoIknow? Ant help would be great!
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if the mfr. has that option, you could order new sash for the units
*You should be able to get the glass out of vinyl sash. They probably have a little molding holding it in. Being careful with a thin blade putty knife pry the molding off and have a local glass co remake with low e. Make sure you take the glass when ordering new as the thickness of the glass, each pc is very important. If these are double hung the weight must match or you'll have problems with operation.
*Low E windows are filled with Argon gas. Just putting a coating on them (from the info I found) will not make them true low e rated. Talk to a window manufacturing company and ask them what process is involved. I got my info from Pella.James DuHamel
*JamesYou have it backwards. Low-e is from the coating that reflects enegery in certain wave lenghts and alows othr to pass.Argon reduces the conductive loses.SteveThere are low-e window films that you can put apply to the surface. Do a google search on "low-e window films".I don't know what the city will accept. But here is a DOE info page on low-e windows;http://www.eren.doe.gov/erec/factsheets/windows.html"Although low-e films are usually applied during manufacturing, retrofit low-e window films are also widely available for do-it-yourselfers. These films are inexpensive compared to total window replacements, last 10 to 15 years without peeling, save energy, reduce fabric fading, and increase comfort."
*I stand corrected.After more searching, I found some more info that tells of the purposes of argon gas in the windows. Not only does it reduce conductive loss, it helps to prolong the life of the soft film by keeping it from coming in contact with air. Air will reduce the coating's life, so the argeon HELPS preserve the coating.James DuHamel
*Once again you guys prove that you are worth every penny I pay for!! Thanks very much!! Steve.
*in fact, a retrofit would prove superior if you live in seismically active areas the film would serve a dual purpose as it would improve the safety in the area surrounding your windows as well...brian
*a word of caution...after the northridge earthquake, i considered installing mylar film on my dual-glazed windows. my neighbor checked with the company providing the home warrantee. they said that it would void their warranty. their concern was about heat build-up within the space between the glass panels ruining the seals (temp/pressure?).now mylar is not the same as low-e, but the basic principle seems to apply.leads me to believe a simple call to the manufacturer is in order to find out which low-e films are approved for their units.brian
*At least one company in my area that advertises the film says that they have never had a problem, but because of this they have there own warantee against window breakage.
*SteveUsually the glass/sash is replaceable, especially if the glass is broken. The manufacturer will/should be able to supply you with a replacement and directions on how to do the work. Most glass is held in by a double sided sticky tape and plastic molding. From what I've heard, it sounds pretty easy to do the replacement.Make sure you get both low-e and argon gas when ordering the new glass... there's a huge different in performance. It's definitely worth spending the extra money [approx. $20 per window] and saving money in the long run.
*after-market films put additional surface tension on the glass....this stress is often relieved at small edge imperfections.. and a stress break will run across the glass.. so..in a typical install, of say 20 sash... within the first year, i would expect 3 failed sash... this is why the original mfr's warranty is void by the process.. ..my option would still be to order new SASH with Low-e from the original mfr.
*Steve; We took used sliding glass doors and used them for windows in our new house.Some of the units were fogged and so we cut the double panes from the aluminum frames and had them reframed for $40.00.For an extra $10.00 dollars they added argon.The glass company is a sindicate nationwide--Vynal-lite Don L.
*I have done quite a bit of the film. There are different shades of the film. The factory will recommend the shade you may use with double panes with out damage. According to what I was told at a plastic show in Atlanta by one of their reps ;No damage will occur if their recommendation is followed. The darkest films will put to much stress on double pane windows. This may not help you;but I recommend some research before new windows are ordered . Also the glass shop I use charges to much for the change. So the film has been my alteritive.Hope this helps.