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running452
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RE: Swapping Vinyl for Fiberglass Windows: Surprising Perks (and One Annoyance)
I swapped my old vinyls for fiberglass (Marvin, not Milgard, but close) last winter. The airtightness is wild - my heat barely kicks on now. But yeah, the dark frames are a dust magnet. I also noticed condensation is way...
RE: Finding the sweet spot: picking window coatings for both sun and cold
Yeah, I hear you on that. The wind here is brutal too - my neighbor’s retractable awning barely made it through one season before it was toast. I’ve also layered low-e film with heavy curtains, and honestly, it’s not pre...
RE: Comparing double vs triple pane fiberglass windows for keeping the cold out
Totally feel this. I’ve seen houses with top-notch windows still get chilly just because the install was rushed. I went double pane in my 70s ranch - spent more time finding a careful installer than picking glass, honest...
RE: Windows That Can Handle Ocean Air - Any Recommendations?
I’ve had the same issue with tapes peeling, especially on the windward side. I’ve been using Prosoco R-Guard lately - sticks well if you really work it into the sheathing and don’t skimp on primer. Still, nothing’s perfe...
RE: Unexpected challenges of putting in windows off the grid
Expanding foam is kind of a double-edged sword with log homes, in my experience. It fills gaps really well at first, but as soon as the logs shift (and they always do), the foam can either crack or pull away, leaving wei...
RE: Which way do your windows face for max winter sun?
I’ve tried the heavy curtain trick too, and honestly, it’s better than nothing but not a miracle worker. I still get a draft near the old frames, especially when the wind picks up. South-facing windows really do make a d...
RE: Why do my smart window sensors keep disconnecting?
Funny you mention the bookshelf trick - I did almost the same thing but used the top of the fridge for a while, just because it was the only spot with a clear line of sight. Made a small difference, but nothing dramatic....
RE: Anyone tried switchable glass for skylights? Worth the upgrade?
Yeah, the insulation thing is a real sticking point for me too. I geeked out on the numbers when I was looking at switchable glass for my sunroom - turns out most of them have an R-value that’s not much better than stand...
RE: Thinking about fiberglass windows from Pella, are they worth it?
Yeah, I totally get where you’re coming from on the sun exposure. I swapped out my old wood frames for fiberglass (also Pella) about four years ago. South side gets blasted with afternoon sun here too, and honestly, I ha...
RE: Finally upgraded my windows and loving the results
Interesting you mention the airtight issue - I ran into something similar after sealing up drafts around doors and windows. Condensation actually got worse at first, which felt totally counterintuitive. Ended up installi...