FAQs

What is argon gas and why is it used with Low E glass?

Argon is a colourless, odorless, non-flammable, non-reactive, inert gas. Filling the gap between the glass panes with a low-conductivity gas such as argon improves window performance by reducing conductive and convective heat transfers. This phenomenon results from the fact that the density of the gas is greater than the density of the air. Argon is the most commonly used fill gas, due to its excellent thermal performance and cost-efficiency in comparison to other gas fills. However, argon gas is not an effective solar performer by itself. That is why it is used primarily in conjunction with Low E coatings.

My windows have moisture in between the panes of glass. Why?

Moist air can fill the space between the panes of glass when the seals along the outer perimeter of glass fail. This is called “seal failure.” Seal failures allow moisture to penetrate into the space between the panes of glass making your insulated unit appear cloudy or fogged. Replacing the glass in these windows will correct the problem.

Why choose triple-glazed windows?

Choosing triple-glazed windows can result in instant as well as long-lasting benefits. There are numerous positive reasons to choose triple-glazed windows. Here are a few:

Excellent thermal insulation
Triple-glazed windows offer superior thermal insulation for many homes. Because of their design, windows with triple glazing ensure a very low loss of heat.
However, first make sure your entire residence is well insulated. This ensures that you will receive the maximum benefits of a triple-glaze window installation.

Better energy savings
In general, triple-glazed windows have a very high energy efficiency rating. They require less heat to keep the home comfortable. This allows them to lower their monthly heating bills, which is a very advantageous benefit.

More comfort in the home
In some cases, the triple glass panes of the windows provide better acoustic and sound insulation. Indeed, since these windows consist of three sheets of glass with two air spaces, they make it possible to eliminate many noises. For people who live in noisier environments, this can be very practical.

This is particularly the case with some passive buildings and in specific areas of the house, such as north-facing windows.

During the winter I have water coming in the window when it is not raining. What is the problem?

If snow is allowed to accumulate on a roof and the temperature remains very cold, the snow will begin to melt from underneath (heat from the attic). As the melted snow flows down the roof toward the unheated soffit, it refreezes. When sufficient ice has formed at the soffit, additional melting snow from the roof is prevented from leaving the roof. The water then backs up and under the roof shingles eventually finding its way into your home (see figure below). This problem is referred to as “ice damming” and is not caused by your windows.