FAQ
Educational Resource
On the right is a list of common problems people encounter with their windows and patio doors. We've provided solutions and suggestions for each.
Application and Training
Do replacement windows and patio doors really pay for themselves over time?
Choosing well-built, energy-efficient vinyl windows and patio doors will lower overall home energy consumption. The savings on heating and cooling costs, comined with practically no maintenance costs, will allow for a gradual recoup of your investment.
Will the Low E glass coating on my windows or patio doors keep my furniture and flooring from fading?
A Low E coating can significantly reduce the rate of fading of your furniture and flooring. However, it will not completely prevent it. Please keep in mind that fabrics, wood, paint, etc. fade at varying rates and Low E coating will prolong that process.
What are egress requirements\sizes?
Building codes require minimum opening sizes for certain windows, most commonly in bedrooms and finished basements. Since those sizes vary by state or region, please contact your local building code official for the most current information.
How / Where to Use
Where can I buy HiMark windows and patio doors?
HiMark windows and patio doors can be purchased through a certified dealer. Contact us to find a dealer in your area today!
Do HiMark Windows and Patio Doors require maintenance?
Your new vinyl windows and patio doors are practically maintenance-free. A cloth and some mild detergent are all you will need for cleaning. Remember not to use any harsh or abrasive detergents, as these could damage the finish of your windows.
Differentiating Factors
What is seal-failure and how can I tell if my window has it?
Seal-failure is when moisture collects in-between the panes of an insulated glass unit as a result of the seal breaking in-between the individual pieces of glass.
What is condensation and what causes it?
Condensation is a natural occurrence caused by excess humidity or water vapor coming in contact with a cooler surface, turning it into visible droplets of water. HiMark windows and patio doors have built-in features to keep the glass as warm as possible to reduce the possibility of condensation. Controlling the humidity level in your home is the most effective way to avoid condensation. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:
- Use venting fans in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room to circulate air.
- Use a dehumidifier.
- "Air-out" your home frequently by opening windows and doors.
- Indoor plants also raise humidity levels, so you may want to consider reduing the number of plants kept inside your home.
What are U-Values and R-Values?
U-Value is a measure of the rate of heat loss through a window or door. The lower the U-Value, the greater a window's resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. R-Value is a measure of the resistance to heat flow. A window with a high R-Value has a greater resistance to heat flow and a higher insulation value. The U-Value or R-Value is the easiest way to determine the energy efficiency of a window or patio door.
How should I evaluate the energy performance of a window or patio door?
Look for the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC) label on the window or patio door. This label shows the U-Value, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, and Visible Light Transmittance values.
Why switch to vinyl windows instead of aluminum or wood?
Vinyl withstands the effects of nature much better than wood or metal, making it a smart economical choice. Vinyl windows and patio doors will never pit, rot, rust, blister, peel, or corrode. You will not have to paint or lubricate vinyl windows or patio doors, since vinyl allows for smooth, maintenance-free operation year round. Vinyl's long-lasting aesthetic appeal, excellent energy efficiency, and low maintenance make it a durable and economical choice.
Your Windows
Why should I replace my existing windows?
New windows will add value to your home by improving the curb appeal and saving you money on heating and cooling costs. HiMark Windows offers a variety of shapes, styles, and colors to make your home more beautiful and energy efficient.
What are the advantages of getting custom-sized replacement windows and patio doors as opposed to stock-sized products?
Custom products allow you to match decor and energy efficiency to the exact needs of your home. Because custom windows are made to fit exactly , you save on labor and installation costs as well.