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Registered
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Lake Oswego, OR
Posts: 6,272
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Here is what I know. I worked one hellish under-employed year for a large national window company (sounds like Hella) and know some very smart HVAC people that focus on energy efficiency. I currently have crappy aluminum double glazed windows. Aluminum transmits a ton of heat so is not a very good frame choice. The decision I made was that even with my crap windows, it did not make sense to replace. I focused on other, higher gain areas.
Summary:
1) Windows are not cost effective to replace regarding energy efficiency.
2) The biggest thing you can do to make your home energy efficient is mitigate air leaks.
3) Style of window is largely not relevant - all modern windows make a reasonably good seal.
4) Nathan Alicata is a window genius. He lives in Milwaukie. Not sure if he does residential work or not. He is one of the smartest guys around regarding windows. Don't know if I have his number but I can find it if you need it.
Good luck!
Larry
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