Why dual-pane vinyl windows save energy

A closed 30" by 30" single-pane, aluminum frame window can transfer the same amount of energy as an uncovered six-inch-wide hole in your wall. With dual-paned windows, the outside air has to slog its way though two panes of glass and one or more layers of insulated vinyl. Some windows have Argon gas, or low-e coating as an added insulator. Another benefit of double-paned windows is that they block noise, too.

You can also get insulated drapes and window coverings, or apply reflective window film to keep out the sun. Another approach is to install awnings. Properly placed awnings keep the high summer sun out, and let the lower winter sun in.

Finally, you can plant shade trees and vines. According to the Department of Energy, three carefully placed shade trees can save $100 to $250 in heating and cooling costs annually.

You can also visit www.ucan.org or mail the order form on page one, and get many more inexpensive energy-saving tips free of charge.

"U-Factor" of 0.4 or less: The lower the U-Factor, the better the window. It tells you how well your window stops heat from escaping. Most windows rate between 0.20 and 1.20.

"SHGC" of 0.4 or less: The SHGC, or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, tells you how well the window blocks out the hot summer sun. The best possible rating is zero, and the worst is 1.0.

Low-e & Low-e² Coatings: "Low-e" is industry jargon for "low emittance of energy." These coatings, which are on the inside of the glass between the panes, keep hot air out and cool air in (and vice-versa). Most utility rebates require a Low-e or Low-e² coating.

"VT" or Visible Transmittance: The higher the VT, the more light you see. VT is rated between zero and one. If the window lets in no light, it would be rated zero. Most rebate deals don’t consider VT ratings.

Consider an LCH background check

If your contractor is not LCH approved, you can actually purchase a background check from LCH. For a total of $25 (as of this writing) LCH will check the contractor’s public record for you. This report includes a BBB check, a CSLB check, and a search of city hall and court records to determine if a contractor has filed any liens against its customers, or has been sued for any reason. For an additional $25, LCH will also check the contractor’s credit through the Experian credit bureau. This report includes the public records search described previously, plus valuable information about the contractor’s financial stability and bill-paying history. This information can be especially useful when evaluating long-term guarantees, warranties and overall business practices.

Cover your sash; check their insurance!

Though a CSLB-licensed contractor must have workers compensation insurance, you should verify whether they have General Liability Insurance that will cover any accidental damage or injury that could occur on your property.

Also, you may have to pay a higher monthly premium for your homeowners insurance while the contractor and employees are on your premises. Call your insurance agent to find out. Otherwise, you may not be covered.

As of Feb. 2002, contractors must disclose whether they have General Liability Insurance or not on their contract.

Lastly, once you have your upgrade

completed, make sure your insurance policy reflects the increased value of your home.

Deals, Discounts and Rebates

Energy Rebates: SDG&E has renewed its energy efficient window rebates until December 31, 2002, or until the funds are used up. This modest rebate gives you 50¢ per square foot for dual pane windows that meet the following requirements:

- A U-factor no greater than 0.4

- SHGC no greater than 0.4

- Low-e glass or better

As of this writing, you can get a rebate application on the Web at www.sdge.com/efficiency/rebates_home.pdf. WARNING: The application and the receipts you provide, must be of the same calendar year. You can also contact the utility by telephone to earmark funds, get more information, and order an application form at 800-411-7343.Always ask about discounts: Many of the contractors interviewed by UCAN offered different types of discounts off their bids. A few offered an immediate discount or "initial visit discount" for initiating service during the preliminary appointment. But be wary. This type of discount is often used as a ploy by high-pressure sales people. Some contractors offered an advertised discount of 10% to 15% because there was an existing promotional offer, a "whole house" discount or an additional 15% reduction for writing a letter of recommendation and allowing the company to put a sign in your yard for 30 days to advertise their services.

Miscellaneous legal stuff

How much down? Contractors, by law, can’t ask for more than $1,000 or 10% of the total bid, which ever is less, upfront.

Timely delivery:Under § 7159 of the Business and Professions Code, failure of the contractor without lawful excuse to substantially commence work within twenty (20) days from the approximate date promised is in violation of the Contractors State License Law.

Safety codes: Every bedroom must have an opening that is at least 5.7 square feet and not more than 41" from the floor to meet fire safety codes. In older homes, windows may not meet this standard, and you may be required to pay a little more for a bigger window.

Stopping the deal: California law gives you a three-day right of cancellation, or the ability to rescind a contract if the request is made (in writing) within three days after the contract has been signed. This law is meant to prevent high-pressure sales. WARNING: This three-day right does not apply to contracts signed in a store or showroom.

Warranty: The window industry’s "standard warranty" usually covers manufacturer defects as long as you own your home. They usually do not cover breakage, natural wear and tear, or labor costs. Some warranties only cover the cost of materials, and do not pay for labor, condensation between the panes, poor workmanship, broken glass, etc. Check to see if the warranty is transferable to the next homeowner and if labor is included. Your contractor may also offer a labor guarantee. If the contractor offers a long-term guarantee, make certain the company is financially solid (defunct companies rarely honor guarantees).

Permits: Permits are required if you are making any structural changes to your home such as removing load-bearing mullions, or changing the physical shape of the existing walls that your windows currently are in, especially if the change impacts the architectural integrity of your home.

Tempered glass: A good window contractor knows that windows near doors, close to the ground, or near a bath drain must be tempered. Tempered glass shatters like a safety windshield, while untempered glass can break into large, potentially hazardous shards.