Frequently Asked Questions

We encourage our clients to ask us questions: about our products, our installers, our warrantees and guarantees, about government lead paint requirements—about anything! We know that replacing your doors and windows can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, and we want you to feel confident and comfortable in choosing Renaissance Windows and Doors as your home renovation partner. We want to review a few Frequently Asked Questions with you here on the blog, and encourage you to contact us with any other questions you might have regarding window and door replacement.

Q: How should I evaluate the energy performance of a window or patio door?

A: Look for the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC) label on the window or patio door. This label shows the U-value, Solar Heat Gain and visible light transmittance values. Other places to look for information on energy efficiency in windows and patio doors are: U.S. EPA Energy Star Homes Program; drpane.com; Efficient Windows Collaborative.

Q: What is an Energy Star rating, and what does it mean?

A: According to the EPA Energy Star website, this national energy performance rating is a type of external benchmark that helps energy managers assess how efficiently their buildings use energy, relative to similar buildings nationwide. To find out more about what the Energy Star rating means for you as a homeowner, visit the Energy Star website.

Q: What is air infiltration?

A: Air infiltration refers to the movement of air through a window or patio door past weatherstrip or other possible openings. Look for windows that are designed for absolute minimum air infiltration. A value of 0.3 or less is desirable.

Q: What does it mean to have a “clad” wood window?

A: "Clad" refers to the covering on the exterior window or patio door unit. From the inside, you see the beauty of wood while the aluminum on the outside ensures the life of your wood windows for many years and reduces the amount of necessary maintenance.

Q: Can traditional wood windows be custom made for my home?

A: Yes. The historic integrity of an older home can be maintained while improving energy efficiency by replacing the windows with new energy efficient windows of the same style as the original. Refer to our dealer locator for assistance in finding a supplier who can help answer your remodeling questions.

Q: What are some reasons why I might want tinted windows in my home?

A: Tinting reduces the amount of light into the home, provides a pleasing tone to the view, and can help keep the heat out.

Q: Are there products out there designed specifically for homes in the Gulf Coast, and other hurricane-prone geographic regions?

A: Yes, there are products on the market that are designed specifically for use in areas that see high-wind or hurricane conditions. Hurd Windows and Doors have a product called Feel Safe™, which feature high-strength, shatter-resistant laminated glass. 

Q: Are there still energy tax credits available if I replace my doors and windows during 2011?

A: Yes! The tax incentives from 2010 were extended through 2011. Click through to learn more about how to take advantage of the 2011 tax credits and incentives.

Q: What is the difference between using professional installers and performing the installation myself?

A: It can be tempting to try and save a few dollars by doing the installation yourself, but we know that in the long run self-installation can cost you more money. Professional installers can anticipate problems as well as quickly adjust to problems that are encountered during the installation process. In addition, our professional installers carry certification for removing lead paint and are AAMA certified master installers. Professional installation also ensures you receive both the manufacturer’s warrantees, but the RWD installation guarantee protection as well.

We hope this brief over view of Frequently Asked Questions has been helpful, and we are ready to answer all of your questions about home renovation any time! Stop in to our showroom to see our full line of products and to speak with someone about your window and door replacement project.