Windows / Discussions

Which window frames are the best: Fiberglass, PVC or Fiberglass hybrid uPVC?

...windows with a casement-style window. My wish list of thermal and sound reduction points to a triple pane window. I want to purchase the best quality window that I can afford, even if it means only purchasing a few at a time. Most window suppliers that I have found at Hardware outlets offer PVC tri-pane windows. I was ...

Posted by Zarah M April 10, 2025 Windows and doors 1 response

Should our HRV keep our humidity lower than 40%, even in the cold months?

...windows. The humidty is registering at 40% on all levels, even though the HRV is set to Max. Is it possible that it is not functioning properly? Thanks in advance! The thing about condensation on windows, is that there can be a number of causes. 40% RH isn’t unusual, and at -30C its not a surprise you’re seeing condens...

Posted by Kim Clement Feb. 8, 2021 Ventilation 5 responses

Is this a good way to insulate drafty windows?

...windows and sliding doors to a balcony.  If there existed a rectangular clear plastic bladder with three layers that could be made to fit in the space between the inner and outer windows, and if this bladder could be blown up with air, would it be effective in eliminating drafts and and behave much like a triple glazed...

Posted by Robert Schmidt Feb. 6, 2021 Windows and doors 2 responses

Can you add exterior rigid foam insulation (e.g. EPS) with replacing windows?

...windows of the cabins are in reasonably decent shape.  We have a strategy to insulate the attic space and crawl space but were wondering the most cost effective method to insulate the walls and if we can do so without replacing/resetting windows.  The current walls are 2x4 with fiberglass insulation and plywood exterio...

Posted by Peter Milliken Nov. 9, 2020 Wall assemblies - renovation

What is the best way to do Stucco/E.I.F.S exterior window wraps?

Ive been a Plasterer for 30yrs and always wrapped and flashed windows to protect from water intrusion. Yet I see roofers doing it wrong, painters attempting it and the issues always effected stucco. Is there a licensed or certification for pan flashing or air barrier installation? Installing a window properly to avoid ...

Posted by Pat Estes July 17, 2020 Windows and doors 2 responses

How do you install windows with SIP exterior insulation?

Is it a good idea to add comfort board or similar to outside of SIP, and if so how do u deal with window set back?

Posted by tony wolff March 8, 2021 Walls and Roofs

How much window area can i have in passive house?

...windows can be accommodated and still meet the performance criteria. This page will be helpful I think –  All you need to know about Passive House certification But to address your question about windows – there is an overall performance target that needs to be met for any Passive House building, so the more windows yo...

Posted by tony wolff March 4, 2021 Windows and doors 3 responses

How do you calculate window height and location for passive solar heating?

I couldn't see the answer in a search - apologies if this has already been covered. If I know that at the winter solstice the sun will be at an elevation of 20 degrees, my south facing (northern hemisphere) glazing is 4 metres high (bottom to top of windows) - then what is furthest point the sun will reach to into the...

Posted by Daniel Gardener Sept. 12, 2019 Passive solar home design 1 response

If a passive house is designed well is it worth the extra cost for Low E window coatings?

...windows be appropriate without the Low E coating?  The Low E coating does reduce the solar gain even if you choose a coating designed for the northern climate.  (I am in Ontario 44 degrees north).  My application would have 5x5 ft fixed windows with 5x2 foot awning style windows below and above for ventilation. Low-E c...

Posted by Joe Van Kuren June 7, 2019 Passive solar home design 1 response

What windows should you use when trying to build a Passive House?

...windows will be warmer than doubles, so less condensation will form which will help safeguard the interior wood. here are other pages that may be of value: Understanding window performance How to install windows properly Low-E glass windows can significantly improve energy efficiency

Posted by Raoul Lions Jan. 25, 2019 Windows and doors 1 response

Can I reclaim old triple slider windows?

...windows because I want to spend the money I would otherwise spend on windows on a heat pump hot water tank, which I can use to also help heat the house.  Regarding your first question about making your own windows – Let me make sure I really understand – is your plan to build new window frames then insert the existing ...

Posted by Keanan Toews Jan. 20, 2019 Windows and doors 1 response

Should I replace my skylights with solar tubes?

...windows that depends on the extent of damage and the cost comparison of repairing / replacing. So – in some cases, if you’re sure it’s the condensation that’s the problem, covering the bottom with plastic or a sheet of plexi may make a difference. That would prevent moisture from accumulating in the cavity, it would al...

Posted by Elizabeth Brown Nov. 30, 2018 Windows and doors 1 response

How do you seal windows from the exterior for water and air but not create a vapor seal?

I am following your technique to seal the windows from inside that is to use Rockwool to insulate the gap and tape for water, air and vapor barrier. I am concern that taping it outside might cause the vapor sandwich which I want to avoid. I am not sure what you have done for 2015 model home for exterior. Your help on t...

Posted by Piyush Prince Nov. 7, 2018 Windows and doors 1 response

is there a SketchNanoGard Review?

...windows and everyone was quite impressed with how it performed. you can read more here about how it works and our in house review of how well it works -  Reflective window film to reduce overheating    

Posted by Island Lake June 24, 2020 Windows and doors 1 response

What are the best windows for replacement in a basement?

...windows, there is no really no difference between basements and above grade walls. Basement windows are often smaller than main floor windows, other than that, whatever performance of windows you decide to invest in would make sense for all floors. I would say your first stop would be finding windows that suit your cli...

Posted by Chrystele Chevallier-g May 21, 2020 Windows and doors 1 response

Is Condensation on Windows a bad sign?

...windows are starting to get what looks like a black mold - should I be worried? What can I do to stop it - or is condensation on our windows just a part of living in Michigan in winter?  Condensation on double-glazed windows in cold climates is fairly common unfortunately. Despite being common it can be a problem, part...

Posted by Greg Olmstead Dec. 12, 2019 Walls and Roofs 1 response

How do you replace windows in a double stud wall house?

...windows on the north side of the home. Is there anything special that should be considered to expand the size of the windows by the builder? If we install triple pane windows, do I still need to install  double windows for each opening to retain the envelope? I am looking for a builder in SE Wi who is familiar with the...

Posted by Sasha June 25, 2018 Windows and doors 3 responses

How do you know when its time to replace windows?

...windows unnecessarily, even by well-intentioned contractors, but just do that math – how much will it cost to purchase new windows, remove and dispose of old ones, install new windows and repair finishing and trim inside the house and out. Now figure how much energy will you save with new windows compared to your exist...

Posted by Ted Dec. 11, 2017 Windows and doors 1 response