Window Installation

It is crucial to choose the best quality windows for your home.  Most of the heat loss in a home is through the windows.  We design homes to have as few windows as possible on the North side of the home.  Instead we place windows in areas that will provide the best natural light and at the same time work well to make the most of solar heat gain in the winter while avoiding it in the summer.

By choosing high-efficiency, air tight windows, you will notice not only a savings in your heating bill, but will also appreciate a more comfortable home that doesn't feel drafty.  Modern windows can also block damaging UV rays that can cause furniture and other household items to fade.

We prefer MI VINYL windows, made right here in Arizona

We prefer Weathershield, Anderson, or Pella WOOD windows.

We also install Panoramic Doors

Window Types:

Windows come in several styles including:  Sliders, Double Hung, Single Hung, Awning, and Casement.

Double Hung Windows:

A Double Hung window is one where both the top and bottom sections slide up and down.  Most Double Hung windows are wood windows. 

Single Hung Windows:

A Single Hung window is one in which only the bottom section slides up and down.  Most vinyl and aluminum windows are available in only Single Hung. 

Casement Windows:

Casement windows are typically the most energy efficient windows due to their tight seal.  Casement windows are hinged on one side and crank open.
The advantage of casement windows is the both sides open. The disadvantage is that they swing outwards and are not always practical over decks and porches.

Awning Windows:

Awning windows are hinged at the top and crank open from the bottom.  Awning windows offer the most protection from rain in the open position compared to other window types. 

Energy ratings:

The U-factor is the most important rating for all windows in Flagstaff.  The LOWER the U-factor, the better insulating the window will be.  U-factor relates to heat transfer that is not from sunshine.  The U-factor correlates directly to lower heating bills. However a low U-factor is not desirable if the window is designed for passive solar heat gain in the winter.

The SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) is important for windows exposed to the sun.  If you want your window to allow a lot of sunshine to warm your house, look for a higher number.  However if your house is prone to to absorbing too much heat from sunshine coming through the windows, look for a lower SHGC number.  Typically a lower SHGC number is preferred in Flagstaff, unless you have a house specifically designed for passive solar heating.  (SHGC and U-factor numbers are typically either both high or both low). 

For more about energy ratings for windows and doors, please visit: energy.gov

Current Government tax credits for windows:

Click here for the latest information about the tax credits

While installing your new windows, please ask us to also inspect your furnace for proper combustion air.  Older furnaces drew combustion air from inside the home.  This situation was fine when houses were less air tight, but with new modern windows resulting in a more air tight home, furnaces need to draw combustion air from outside the home.