Visible Transmittance is a required property on the NFRC Label located on any energy efficient replacement window.

VT is an optical property that indicates the amount of visible light transimitted.  VT is a whole window rating and includes the impact of the frame which does not transmit any visibile light.  While VT thoretically varies between 0 and 1, most values are between 0.3 and 0.7.  The higher the VT, the more light is transmitted.

Home Visions Inc. has friendly and trained individuals that can come out and answer all of your questions about windows.  Give us a call or schedule online today!

Extruded vinyl windows are predominately used for replacement of old windows and are custom built to fit existing openings.  There are hundreds of manufacturers and fabricators of vinyl windows and their quality, features and price vary widely.

Vinyl is a strong, well insulated material, ideal for constructing a window.  It never requires painting or refinishing like wood and does not corrode or attract condensation like aluminum.  It should have a smooth polished finish that will be easy to clean.

The method of constuction of a vinyl window frame is very important.  Better vinyl windows have fusion welded corners.  The fusion welding process unites the four frame pieces into a single piece, eliminating air and water infiltration and unsightly joints.  The best way to determine how strong a weld is, is to look at a cross section of frame extrusion.  The more surface area fused the stronger the weld will be.  Vinyl windows which have multiple chamber channels will have far more surface area than those that do not.

The quality of vinyl should also be considered.  Cheaper vinyl can contain regrind or recycled vinyl and may contain fillers that reduce the overall strength and durability of the window.  This is particularly critical in brown or bronze vinyl windows that absorb heat more readily and can be susceptible to sagging and warping.


4412 Powder Mill Road Suite 200
Beltsville, MD 20705

301.937.4663

R-Value - A measure of thermal performance expressed as resistance to heat loss.  The R-value is determined by taking the recipriocal of the U-value.  The higher the R-value the better.

U-Value - A mesure of thermal performance expressed as the rate of heat loss.  The U-value is determied by measuring the amount of heat lost through a material, over the time period of one hour, when the difference of temperature between the warmer and colder sides is one degree.  The lower the U-value the better.  The unit of measurement is particularly useful when determining the overall thermal performance of and insulated glass unit.

To learn more about replacement windows please visit www.homevisionsinc.com or to learn more about the National Fenestration Rating Council, click here.

Your windows and doors are the most visible parts of your home.  New windows and doors can transform your home and improve curb appeal.

Consider the following:

FACT ONE: Today's new windows make life easier.  Modern high technology such as constant force balance systems, state of the art glass and precise vinyl formula mixtures mean that new windows will not squeak, fog or fade.  Today's windows stay bright, don't require any maintenance and can easily be cleaned from the inside (in most cases).

FACT TWO: Today's replacement windows are much safer than in the past.  Reinforced locking mechanisms, laminate glass and reinforced framing make today's windows some of the safest that have ever been made.

FACT THREE: Today's windows are more cost effective.  New insluated glass designs, glass coatings and improved frame insulation all contribute to an energy efficient product that can cut home heating and cooling usage and costs.  New windows and doors make the inside of your home more comfortable and quite while saving you money on energy bills as well.

FACT FOUR: Windows look great!  They come in a variety of shapes, styles and colors including bay windows, large bow windows, sliding windows, casement windows, double hung windows and picture windows.  Peraonalized interior hardware (locks) can be customized to meet the decor of your home.

When you go to have your windows replaced, don't just call any company or go to a home improvement store.   Choose your professional carefully and go to a specialist.

What is AAMA?

The American Architectural Manufactures Association (AAMA) is a trade association of firms engaged in the manufacture and sale of building fenestration components and related products.  Tracing its origins back over 60 years, AAMA is active in its role as the “Technical Information Center” for industry’s products such as windows, glass doors, storm windows and related fenestration products.

How are windows tested for structural performance?

AAMA is a third party certification agency with whom manufacturers must certify structural performance for all its products. Recently, AAMA and the NWWDA (National Wood Window & Door Association) have worked together and approved a new combined test specification called AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2-97. It allows vinyl, aluminum and wood products to be tested to the same criteria so consumers can compare products more uniformly and accurately.

Do all windows participate with AAMA programs and testing?

No.  Due to the very tough guidelines and increased costs, not all window manufacturers participate in the AAMA testing program.

Does Home Visions carry windows that are AAMA certified?

Yes.  Home Visions Inc. is proud to offer Simonton Windows as one of our preferred window solutions.  All Simonton windows carry the gold AAMA label which is the highest level of certification a product can receive.

Catonsville, Md - VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS



Home Visions Inc. takes pride in the fact that we can offer high quality locally manufactured windows and precision installation at affordable prices.

ALL STYLES & COLORS AVAILABLE INCLUDING: BAY WINDOWS, BOW WINDOWS, SHAPED WINDOWS, DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS, TWO/THREE PART SLIDER WINDOWS, CASEMENT WINDOWS, AWNING STYLE WINDOWS, GARDEN STYLE WINDOWS, HOPPER WINDOWS, PATIO DOORS, ENTRY DOORS & STORM DOORS.

MD License #121921

Replacement windows are engineered for specific climates.  For example in the southeast the emphasis is placed on lowering the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) (keep the heat from the sun out) because the average annual temperature is much higher than the northern states.  But, homeowners in the northern states benefit from the sun's heat in the winter.  It is important to find a replacement window product that has a low enough SHGC to help in the hot Washington summers, but also allow some of the warmth from the sun in the cold, damp winters. 

As seen in the graph below, the Mid-Atlantic region is just about in the middle of the thermometer in terms of average median temperature (54.2 MD & 55.1 VA).    Call Home Visions Inc. today for a free in-home consulation about your windows so that you can make in educated decision that will provide you with the most energy savings in the long term. 

Laminated glass windows help homeowners with two distinctly different things:

1. Security
2. Sound Proofing

How this works:
Laminated glass is a combination of two glass sheets with one interlayer of plastic (PVB). In case of breakage, the interlayer holds the fragments together and continues to provide resistance to the passage of persons or objects. It is virtually impenetrable.  Additionally, it adds a soundproofing layer that keeps sound out.

Why security bars are a thing of the past:
Most iron bars used to cover windows are actually screwed in and can easily be removed providing a false sense of security. Additionally, bars decrease a home's value, they block important natural light needed to reduce energy bills, they create fire hazards and they are expensive to maintain.

What are STC Ratings:

The Sound Transmission Class (STC) is a single-number rating of material's or an assembly's ability to resist airborne sound transfer at the frequencies 125-4000 Hz.  In general, a higher STC rating blocks more noise from transmitting through a partition.

Replacement Windows in Springfield, VA

Free Estimates for Homeowners in Springfield, VA

Why are we different?

Home Visions' replacement windows have the latest and highest performing features that save energy and money, make your home more comfortable, minimize maintenance and improve your home's aesthetics.  Most important - they are specifically designed for Springfield's climate so you won't be spending money on the wrong features.

Windows are engineered for specific climates.  For example in the southeast the emphasis is placed on lowering the solar heat gain coefficient (keep the heat from the sun out) because the average annual temperature is much higher than the northern states.  But, homeowners in the northern states benefit from the sun's heat in the winter.  We know that room in the cold winter months that is nice and toasty with a little bit of heat and a sunny day!  Our objective is to provide homeowners in Springfield, VA with a window that is well balanced to reduce energy each season, look great and produce the best return on investment for our customers.


Home Visions Inc. also excels at replacing Awning Windows, Bay Windows, Bow Windows, Casement Windows, Double Casement Windows, Double Hung Windows, Garden Bay Windows, Hooper Windows, Picture Windows, Specialty Shape Windows,  Three Part Sliders, Transom Windows, and Two Part Sliders in Springfield, VA.
________________________________________________________________

Consider The Benefits of an In-Home Consultation
Benefit #1 See the Product First Hand
In essence, we bring the showroom to you!  See the quality of our windows and products first hand.

Benefit #2 Consider Styles for Your Home
Windows have several options including grid patterns, color and styles (slider/ double hung).  Allow our friendly staff to guide you with options and limitations.

Benefit #3 Accurate Quotes for Budgeting
We provide pricing quotes that fit all budgets and our offer is good for one full year.

_________________________________________________________________

Home Visions Inc. carries NFRC certified Energy Star qualified windows. In addition to a high performance window, we pride ourselves in delivering a high performance installation with a professional team that is ready to take on any job. We use our exclusive exterior trim package that is guaranteed to seal your new investment for a lifetime. We pay particular attention to the details knowing that there are many good windows to choose  from and it is the way the product is installed that makes the difference.

Review by Richard K in Grasonville, MD

Comments: They are currently doing the installation. We had a minor scheduling issue which was resolved. One casement window opened from the wrong side and they promised to replace it, with no issue. The whole ordering, contract, fabrication phases went very well. The installers are competent, clean up after themselves, are courteous and careful of our property. 5/7/10