from Michael in Chilton, WI:
#987
I had windows installed through my entire house and they leak air (drafty with whistling noise). The installer had the manufacture rep. and the warranty rep. at my place to see what the problem is. The warranty rep. put some foam pads around the weep holes and told me that any air that comes through after what he repaired is normal. The manufacturer and warranty rep. tried to assure me that all manufactured windows leak air. They were at my place 1-19-11 and today I feel air and now feel like I am being duked. To me they leak enough that it makes me wonder how this company can call their window energy efficient. My question is what can I do?
All windows leak some air.
All windows leak some air just like all windows allow some heat loss and some heat gain. Manufacturers are required to test and rate windows and affix labels to demonstrate the degree to which they tolerate that loss or gain. Windows can also be tested and labeled for air leakage. (Please be advised the rating for air leakage is optional and manufacturers can choose not to include it.)
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) energy performance label can help you determine how well a product will perform the functions of helping to cool your building in the summer, warm your building in the winter, keep out wind, and resist condensation. By using the information contained on the label, builders and consumers can reliably compare one product with another, and make informed decisions about the windows, doors, and skylights they buy. NFRC adopted a new energy performance label in 2005. It lists the manufacturer, describes the product, provides a source for additional information, and includes ratings for one or more energy performance characteristics.
NOTE: All energy performance values on the label represent the rating of windows/doors as whole systems (glazing and frame).
To determine what can be done to reduce the air leakage in your windows, I would suggest a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® evaluation. The professionals of Home Performance with ENERGY STAR are trained to identify the cause of problems or potential problems in your home and provide you with solutions. The Focus on Energy Find it Tool can help you locate a consultant in your area.
Published Wednesday, March 16, 2011