Calgary, AB – Installing windows with Low-E glass options is one of the best ways to improve energy efficiency in the home, but the benefits go far beyond that. Because high-performance windows create a warmer interior glass surface, condensation is also reduced. To help builders and remodelers improve their customers’ home efficiency and mitigate concerns for window condensation issues, Ply Gem, a leading North American exterior building products manufacturer and Canadian supplier, offers several glass package options.
The Ply Gem Solution
Ply Gem Low-E glass increases home comfort, protects valuables from sun damage and creates less condensation – far better than conventional clear glass. It has a low-emissivity coating and argon gas that radically improves thermal efficiency and reduces unwanted solar heat gain.
ECO GAIN 180 High Solar Gain Glass blocks heat loss to the outside and reflects heat back into the room. It allows the winter sun’s heat to pass into the home and provide "free heat.”
ECO SHIELD 270 Solar Control Glass reduces solar heat gain by 50 percent or more compared to ordinary glass in the summer and blocks heat loss in the winter.
ECO MAX SHIELD 366 Ultimate Performance Glass lets more light in and keeps more heat out. It provides the highest levels of year-round comfort and energy savings, making it the perfect glass for any geographic region nationwide.
ECO TINT 240 Glare Control Glass provides effective glare control and maximum solar heat blockage. It blocks solar heat gain and maintains cool glass temperatures in summer, as well as warm inside glass temperatures in winter.
By installing windows with Low-E glass options, while educating homeowners on the causes and conditions that condensation occurs under, builders and remodelers can reduce customer concern about a window issue.
For instance, the build-up of moisture on the glass is often equated with a fault in the window, but in most cases it is a sign of perfectly secure construction and a call to reduce indoor humidity. Condensation forms when warm, humid air contacts a cold surface, and because windows are the coldest surface indoors during the winter, they are often the first place condensation can be seen.
Everyday activities like showering, cooking and doing laundry cause indoor air humidity – some homes produce more than four gallons of moisture per day.
Modern, well-insulated construction is another cause of indoor humidity. Energy-efficient homes help regulate heating and cooling costs, but the tight construction can also block outdoor air from entering homes, while keeping the moisture from venting to the outdoors.
In addition to window condensation, excess indoor humidity can cause health problems and structural damage. Moist areas act as a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause allergic reactions, infections and chronic respiratory problems. Humid indoor air can also cause insulation to deteriorate, paint to peel, and structural damage to floors and foundation.
Humidity Reduction Tips
Even the best windows are at risk of condensation build-up when there is excessive humidity coming from inside the home. To reduce indoor humidity and eliminate foggy windows, increase ventilation:
- Vent all gas burners, clothes dryers etc. to the outdoors
- Install kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to draw steam outdoors
- Keep attic vents open and clear
- Install storm windows to keep interior glass warmer
For more information on glass technology, log onto www.plygem.ca.
About Ply Gem in Canada
Ply Gem® manufactures and distributes a comprehensive line of windows, doors, vinyl siding and accessories for the new construction, home repair, retail and remodeling markets in Canada. Ply Gem manufactured brands include Ply Gem® Windows, Ply Gem® Aluminum, Ply Gem® Trim and Mouldings, Ply Gem® Blocks & Vents and Mitten® by Ply Gem vinyl siding. The company also distributes a wide variety of complementary exterior building products through Ply Gem and Mitten branch locations. Products are distributed coast-to-coast in Canada and are available globally via export. For more information, visit www.plygem.ca.
About Ply Gem
Ply Gem (NYSE: PGEM), headquartered in Cary, N.C., is a leading manufacturer of exterior building products in North America. Ply Gem produces a comprehensive product line of windows and patio doors, vinyl and aluminum siding and accessories, designer accents, cellular PVC trim and mouldings, vinyl fencing and railing, stone veneer and gutterware. Ply Gem employs more than 8,900 associates across North America. Visit www.plygem.com for more information.
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For more information, contact:
Ashley Eisner
G&S Business Communications
Tel: 212-697-2600
aeisner@gscommunications.com
