FAQs
The world of windows and doors can be complex. At German System Windows we are dedicated to clearly stating what products we offer, the features and standards to each unit and the options that are available to you. We seek to answer any questions our customers have, both regarding our products and the window and door industry in general.
What are your windows and doors constructed from?
What are the advantages of vinyl windows over wood or aluminum?
What kind of warranty do you offer?
Do you offer installation of your products?
What colours are available?
I have an older home and I want to replace the windows and doors. Can German System Windows replicate the look of my current windows?
What makes vinyl windows the best choice?
What is argon gas and why is it used with Low E glass?
What is a Premium White SuperSpacer and why is it important?
What is the U-factor?
What is low emissivity glass?
What are your windows and doors constructed from?
German System Windows are constructed of vinyl, which is the best overall solution for your windows.
What makes vinyl windows the best choice?
Vinyl offers better energy efficiency which helps maintain consistent temperatures inside your home. Vinyl frames have welded corners, which make it air tight and prevent elements such as water and dust from leaking into your home. Vinyl offers the best protection against air and noise infiltration, which means a more comfortable and peaceful living environment. Vinyl maintains its new look over time, eliminating fading and repainting.
What kind of warranty do you offer?
We offer a lifetime warranty.
Do you offer installation of your products?
German System Windows has qualified dealers to get the job done right, regardless of the project size.
What colours are available?
Most of our products are available in our standard colours. We also offer custom colours.
I have an older home and I want to replace the windows and doors. Can German System Windows replicate the look of my current windows?
Absolutely, German System Windows can manufacture windows and door units based on your specifications in order to meet your criteria.
What are the advantages of vinyl windows over wood, aluminum or fiberglass?
Your choice of framing material goes a long way toward determining the longevity and energy of the total window system. Wood windows possess excellent thermal qualities but are prone to weather deterioration and require painting at regular intervals. Aluminum windows are very durable but offer little insulating value because they conduct energy rapidly. Fiberglass is well insulated and rigid matrial however you will find cracking frames, peeling paint, leaking, warping, pooling etc. Also on new builds, the fact that the house will take a few years to ‘settle’ means that using a more rigid frame like fiberglass is risky.
Vinyl windows are your best choice because they offer thermal characteristics similar to wood, are extremely durable and provide a finish that is virtually maintenance free. Keep in mind though that the best performing vinyl window systems have multi-chambered frames with welded corners.
What is argon gas and why is it used with Low-E glass?
Argon is a safe colourless, odourless, non-toxic, non-flammable inert gas. It is used to reduce heat loss in sealed units by slowing down convection in the air space. Commonly it is used in place of air between the glass panes of an insulated Low-E glass unit. Argon’s heat conductivity is lower than that of air and thus, it is a better insulator and contributes to a lower U-factor. Argon is not an effective solar performer by itself and so; it is used in conjunction with Low-E insulated glass. Argon gas is a relatively inexpensive option, and can easily recover its cost in heat savings.
What is a Premium White SuperSpacer® and why is it important?
The Premium White Super Spacer® is the best performing solution on the market. SuperSpacer® spacers have a conductivity rate 45 times lower than aluminum spacers. SuperSpacer® Premium helps to reduce your condensation problems, and also reduces the risk of thermal breakage. When you are planning to build or renovate, demand the Premium White SuperSpacer® for your windows and doors and assure yourself of comfortable viewing throughout the seasons.
What is the U-factor?
The U-factor or U-value is the measure of a window’s thermal efficiency, based on its resistance to the flow of energy. The lower the U-factor, the more thermally efficient the window is. Most new window technologies have been aimed at lowering the U-factors through the use of three important innovations: Premium White SuperSpacer®, low emissivity glass coatings and argon gas.
What is low emissivity glass?
Low emissivity glass, commonly referred to, as Low-E is glass that has been coated with a micro-thin metallic film to improve thermal performance. The coating reduces the transfer of heat rays through the glass while still allowing light to pass through. In essence, the coating reflects heat back toward its source. Thus, heat from the furnace stays inside the home during cold weather, resulting in greater comfort and lower energy costs. Low-E coatings also reduce harmful ultraviolet rays that cause drapes and upholstery to fade.