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1 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
Windows and Doors
WEATHERIZATION INSTALLER/TECHNICIAN FUNDAMENTALS
WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
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2 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
By attending this session, participants will be able to:
• List correct window terminology.
• State how windows lose and gain heat.
• Explain the savings-to-investment ratio (SIR) for window and
door replacement compared to other building shell retrofits.
• Identify various methods and materials for window and
door treatments.
• Discuss recommended window and door replacement criteria.
• Identify methods and techniques for replacing windows and
doors.
Learning Objectives
WINDOWS & DOORS
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History
• Window and door treatments
were common before cost-
effectiveness requirements.
• Very popular with clients.
• Met required material-to-labor
cost ratios.
• Before blower doors were
common, couldn’t quantify
envelope leakage.
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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State of the Practice
• Blower doors identify air-sealing opportunities.
• Computerized energy audits list measures in order of SIR.
Windows and doors rank low.
• Window and door replacement is far less common.
WINDOWS & DOORS
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5 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
Solar Heat Gain
Through Double
Pane Insulated Window
Principles
Radiation to indoors
Net solar
transmission
Heat absorbed
by glass
Reflected
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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Glazing
Assembly
U-factor SHG
Single glass 1 0.87
Standard
insulated glass
0.50 0.75
Low-e, high SHGC
insulated glass
0.30 0.74
Low-e, low SHGC
insulated glass
0.30 0.41
Comparison of SHGC and U-Factor
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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NFRC Window Label
The NFRC rates windows on:
• U-factor.
• Solar heat gain coefficient.
• Visible Transmittance.
• Air leakage.
• Condensation resistance.
WINDOWS & DOORS
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Heat Loss, Standard Window Assembly
• Radiation from indoors
to outdoors
• Conduction through
glass and spacers
• Convection adjacent
to interior and exterior
glass surfaces
Indoors
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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• Low-e coating on outdoor
side of inner pane
• Improved spacer
• Gas filled air space
Heat Loss, Improved Window Assembly
Improved spacer
Low-e coating
Gas filled air space
Indoors
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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Window Terminology
Trim
Glass Plane
Head Jamb
Upper Sash
Side Jamb
Lower Sash
Stop
Sill
(sloped)
Typical
Wood Window
Exterior
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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Window Types
Awning Picture
Casement Slider
Double
Hung
WINDOWS & DOORS
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Window Treatments
Where applicable:
• Replace broken glass
• Replace broken sash locks
• Weatherstrip meeting rails
and sliding surfaces
• Install pulley seals
• Caulk interior trim
V-Channels
Stop
Upper Sash
Lower Sash
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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Glass Replacement
• Remove broken pane.
• Measure opening, and
cut new pane from
glass sheet.
• Install, point, and glaze
replacement pane.
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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14 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
Guidelines for Window Replacement
Window replacement is not cost-effective unless:
• The existing window creates a hazard to health, safety, or building
durability.
• The existing window is damaged or weathered beyond repair and
the replacement material and labor cost is less than the cost of
repair.
Always attempt to repair or improve existing windows before
considering replacement.
• Window replacement should not be considered a measure to reduce
air infiltration or as a health and safety measure.
Window selection should reflect the climate.
• Choose high SHGC in cold climates and low SHGC in hot climates.
• Look for low-e coatings on interior panes in cold climates and on
exterior panes in hot climates.
WINDOWS & DOORS
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15 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
In-Jamb Replacement Method
(Double Hung Window)
• Remove existing frame, sash pulley weights etc.
Tip: Score all painted joints with a sharp utility knife prior to removal
of window trim. Use a thin bladed pry bar to prevent marring the trim.
• Install a complete vinyl unit that fits inside the existing frame
against the exterior window stops.
• Seal perimeter with low expanding foam to ensure an
air tight installation.
• Reinstall existing interior trim and seal with caulk.
• Always employ lead safe work practices when lead
based paint will be disturbed.
WINDOWS & DOORS
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16 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
In-jamb Replacement Method
(Double Hung Window)
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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17 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
In-Jamb Replacement Method
(Double Hung Window)
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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18 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
In-Jamb Replacement Method
(Double Hung Window)
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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19 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
In-Jamb Replacement Method
(Double Hung Window)
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of US Department of Energy
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• Windows and Doors
1. Protect the floor
2. Wet surfaces
prior to removal
3. Clean as you go 4. Dispose of old
windows properly
Photos courtesy of US Department of Energy
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Always install factory replacement single-hung or “slider”
units that include self-storing storm windows.
Mobile Home Jalousie Windows
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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Measure rough openings and acquire the replacements before
removing any windows from the home.
Always insist on factory-replacement windows.
Mobile Home Window Replacement
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photos courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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Other Allowable Window Treatments
• Interior storm windows
• Moveable
insulation systems
• Education, encouraging
clients to use:
– Simple methods for high
and low ventilation during
warm periods
– Draperies during cold
periods
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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Doors
• Replacements are not cost
effective because of their high
cost and relatively low impact
on energy savings.
• Potentially significant air
leakage and comfort issues
are due to operational
problems and poor seals.
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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Door Terminology
Hinge
Hinge Stile
Stop
Jamb
Casing
Threshold
Bottom Rail
Lock Rail
Lock Stile
Mullion
Top Rail
Panel
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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Sweep
Threshold
Door Repair and Replacement
Replace doors only when cost-effective as
an envelope measure.
• Reduce air leakage.
• Ensure proper closure.
Weatherization measures must have an SIR
equal to or greater than 1.
WINDOWS & DOORS
Graphic developed for the US DOE WAP Standardized Curricula
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• Replace the existing door with a solid core wood door blank.
Use this method only if the existing rough opening is reasonably
square and the frame is in good shape.
• Consider a pre-hung energy efficient unit that will fit the
rough opening.
This is accomplished in much less time than retrofitting a door blank.
• Manufacture doors on site for special situations such as
open coal access areas adjacent to conditioned basements.
• Must employ lead-safe work practices when lead-based
paint will be disturbed.
Notes on Door Replacement
WINDOWS & DOORS
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28 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
• Use a factory replacement
exterior pre-hung single
door unit.
• Door framing may have
to be replaced or the
floor repaired.
Mobile Home Doors
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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29 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
• Replace deteriorated doors
with factory replacements.
• Specify louvered doors if
the home has fossil-fueled
appliances to ensure
adequate combustion air.
Mobile Home DHWT Closets
WINDOWS & DOORS
Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy
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30 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – July 2012
• Window and door retrofits should be limited to minor
repairs and weatherstripping.
• Window and door replacements are generally not
cost-effective and should only be considered as a last resort.
• Consider the climate when selecting replacement windows.
• Use lead-safe work practices when disturbing
lead-based paint.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for measuring, specifying,
and installing windows.
Summary
WINDOWS & DOORS
Editor's Notes
By attending this session, participants will be able to:
List correct window terminology.
State how windows lose and gain heat.
Explain the savings-to-investment ratio (SIR) for window and door replacement compared to other building shell retrofits.
Identify various methods and materials for window and door treatments.
Discuss recommended window and door replacement criteria.
Identify methods and techniques for replacing windows and doors.
Present this slide as an interactive discussion, soliciting personal examples from the trainees. Add your own personal examples and knowledge to supplement.
Before the era of cost-effective weatherization, window and door treatments were high on the priority list of measures.
Reglazing windows, replacing windows, and adding exterior storms windows were popular with clients because they were visible improvements that related to a client’s perception of comfort.
The required 60/40 material-to-labor ratios were easily met because of the relatively high material costs of windows, storm windows, and doors.
Before blower door-directed air sealing, energy savings through infiltration reductions could not be quantified.
Everyone walked away happy.
The advent of blower door-directed air sealing de-emphasized window and door treatments in favor of sealing large bypasses and duct sealing.
Computerized modeling of buildings favors building shell air sealing and insulation measures, duct modifications, and other mechanical improvements. Overall, window and door replacements are found to have low savings-to-investment ratio (SIR).
Addressing windows and doors in weatherization is generally limited to minor repairs and comfort-related air sealing. Replacement is now seen as the last resort.
Do sample SIR and heat loss calculations on the chalkboard or overhead to teach students about the cost-effectiveness of window and door replacement. See lesson plan and worksheets provided.
This illustration shows solar heat gain through double-pane insulated window.
Depending on the physical properties of the glass, up to 84% of solar energy is transmitted through a double-pane window assembly. Some of the energy is absorbed and some is reflected. Absorbed heat warms the interior space.
The chart shows a comparison of solar heat gain and U-factor according to glazing type.
The two most important energy considerations when evaluating windows are the thermal transmittance (U-factor) and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC).
U-factor is a measure of non-solar heat flow through all the components of a window. The lower the U-factor, the better the energy performance. U-factor allows consumers and energy technicians to compare insulating properties of commercially available windows.
SHGC is a measure of the degree of shading incorporated into the glass and is an important factor to consider when selecting windows. Heating climates benefit from a high SHGC. Cooling climates benefits from a lower SHGC.
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) rates windows based on five factors:
U-factor
Solar heat gain coefficient
Visible transmittance
Air leakage
Condensation resistance
The NFRC is an independent agency that uses standardized testing protocols to evaluate and rate windows for manufacturers based on these factors.
Heat loss through a standard window assembly occurs in three ways:
Radiation from indoors to outdoors or vice versa. Heat is emitted from warm household objects to the window assembly and reradiated to the outdoors.
Conduction heat loss occurs through solid materials such as the frame, spacers, and the glass.
Convection adjacent to interior and exterior glass surfaces. Convective losses occur when cold air next to the glass surface falls down toward the floor, pulling warm air down from the ceiling to cool against the glass, setting up a convective loop.
Greater temperature differences lead to greater heat loss.
This is a drawing of gas-filled, low-e windows with improved thermal breaks.
Thermal breaks can significantly reduce heat loss compared to single- or standard double-pane windows. Note that the low-e coatings are placed on the inside of the inner pane in heating climates and placed on the inside of the outer pane in cooling climates.
A typical double-hung window has numerous components. Understanding window terminology lets installers communicate effectively with each other when installing windows.
Head jamb Groove at the top of the window that allows the window sashes to slide into place and seat inside the window frame.
Upper sash The top portion of the window comprised of a pane of glass set inside a frame. The upper sash is fixed in a single-hung window and slides up and down in a double-hung window.
Glass pane In the window shown at right, there are two panes of glassone in the top sash and one in the bottom sash.
Side jamb Grooves in window that allow the window sashes to slide up and down or side to side.
Trim Extends beyond the end of the window frame on the outside of the window opening. This allows the window to fit flush with the exterior wall when the window in installed.
Window Stop A wood trim member nailed to the window frame to hold, position, or separate window parts. The stop is often molded into the jamb liners on sliding windows.
Lower sash The bottom portion of the window comprised of a pane of glass set inside a frame. The lower sash is fixed in a single-hung window and slides up and down in a double-hung window.
Sill The very bottom of the window. The sill is usually sloped to allow water to run off the bottom of the window in rain or during cleaning.
Include a short Q&A session to gauge students’ knowledge of these terms.
The illustrations show several common window types:
Casement windows have a single operable sash that swings outward on a horizontal plane. Casement window frames that have gone out of square due to settling can stick and quite possibly render these types of windows inoperable.
Awning windows are essentially casement windows that swing vertically. Awning windows are often used in basements. Jalousie windows, found on older mobile homes, are a type of awning window.
Picture windows have no operable sashes and are used primarily for aesthetics.
Double-hung windows have operable upper and lower sashes that slide vertically in a channel. Upper sashes are often painted shut.
A slider window is essentially a double-hung window turned on its side so the sashes move horizontally.
Where applicable:
Replace broken glass
Replace broken sash locks
Weatherstrip meeting rails and sliding surfaces
Install pulley seals
Caulk interior trim
Window repairs are usually simple but can be time consuming. Spending a great deal of time sealing every possible joint is not cost-effective compared to fixing big duct leaks to the outside or large attic bypasses. However, air leakage around windows is noticeable to clients who sit near the windows during cold weather. Fixing these leaks will be appreciated.
Besides fixing obvious problems such as broken glass or misaligned sashes, very detailed window repairs such as weather stripping, fixing broken sash locks, and caulking trim should be limited to high-activity areas where comfort is an issue.
Steps in glass replacement include:
Remove the broken pane.
Measure the opening and cut a new pane from a glass sheet.
Install, point, and glaze replacement pane.
Important glaziers’ tools:
Drywall square
Glass cutter
Wax crayon
Tape measure
Glaziers’ points
Putty knife
Safety glasses and gloves
Glazing compound
Lab exercise – Replacement glass exercise (see lesson plan)
Window replacement is not cost-effective unless:
The existing window creates a hazard to health, safety, or building durability.
The existing window is damaged or weathered beyond repair and the replacement material and labor cost is less than the cost of repair.
Always attempt to repair or improve existing windows before considering replacement.
Window replacement should not be considered a measure to reduce air infiltration.
Window selection should reflect the climate.
Choose high SHGC in cold climates and low SHGC in hot climates.
Look for low-e coatings on interior panes in cold climates and on exterior panes in hot climates.
Weatherization measures must have an SIR equal to or greater than 1 to be considered.
Window installations should be consistent with sound building practice and applicable building codes.
When window replacement is justified, one of the most practical window retrofits is to replace the frame and sash with commercially available, custom-ordered vinyl replacement windows.
Remove the existing frame, sash pulley weights, etc.
Score all painted joints with a sharp utility knife before removing the window trim. Use a thin-bladed pry bar to avoid damaging the trim.
Install a complete vinyl unit that fits inside the existing frame against the exterior window stops.
Seal the perimeter with low expanding foam to ensure an airtight installation.
Reinstall the existing interior trim and seal with caulk.
Always use lead-safe weatherization work practices (LSW) when lead-based paint will be disturbed.
Advantages:
Retains existing glass areas
Simple to install
Energy-efficient upgrade
Does not disturb existing casings
The installed cost is approximately $260 for a 3’ x 5’ replacement based on the 2004 national average.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for measuring, specifying, and installing windows.
Score the surfaces to be disturbed with a razor knife.
Remove sash trim.
Remove sash stop and the existing storm window.
Install the replacement window per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Photo sequence (click through the four steps).
Follow these steps:
Protect the floor.
Wet surfaces before removal to avoid creating dust.
Clean as you go.
Dispose of old windows properly.
Mobile home windows are a breed apart.
They are often irreparable or so deteriorated that replacement is the only option.
Always install factory-replacement single-hung or “slider” units that include self-storing storm windows.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for measuring, specifying, and installing windows.
Tips for mobile home window replacement include:
Measure rough openings.
Remove the old window.
Install the replacement window.
Use putty tape and hex-head screws.
Always insist on factory-replacement windows appropriate for mobile homes to ensure proper fit.
Interior storm windows
Moveable insulation systems
Education, encouraging clients to use:
Simple methods for high and low ventilation during warm periods
Draperies during cold periods
Present this slide as an interactive discussion, soliciting personal examples from the trainees. Add your own personal examples and knowledge to supplement.
This is a photo of a door on a mobile home that is a good candidate for replacement.
Most replacements are not cost-effective because of their high cost and relatively low impact on energy savings.
This door may be cost-effective to replace due to significant air leakage and comfort issues related to operational problems and poor seals.
Solid wood core doors generally have an R-value of 2.5.
ENERGY STAR-qualified foam-filled steel doors have an R-value close to 6.
The relatively small amount of energy savings does not justify the cost of replacement in any but the most extreme circumstances.
This is an illustration of major door components.
Hinges: The metal objects that attach your door to the jamb, normally with screws. They can be made from brass, steel, iron, or other metals.
Door Casing: A wooden trim around doors that covers the seam between the jamb and the wall.
Jambs: The wood that surrounds the door unit to which the door is attached on the hinge side.
Door Stop: The wood trim fastened to the inside of the jamb that positions the door within the jamb and into the latching mechanism.
Threshold: A beveled wood member fastened to the floor and situated between the side jambs. The threshold seals the space between the bottom of the door and the floor.
On the door itself:
Rails: Horizontal framing members of door.
Stiles: Full-length vertical framing members of door.
Mullions: Vertical framing members that don’t run full length of door.
Panel: Parts of door between rails and stiles or mullions.
Replace doors only when it is cost-effective as an envelope measure.
According to DOE guidance WPN 11-6, doors and windows may not be replaced as health and safety measures.
Often, you can achieve air leakage reduction by treating the existing door:
Apply weatherstripping, door stops, door sweeps, or thresholds.
Repair or replace locksets, latches, and hinges.
Weatherization measures must have an SIR equal to or greater than 1 to be considered.
Lab exercise – Door weatherstripping (see lesson plan)
There are a couple options for door replacement.
Replacing the existing door with a solid core wood door blank.
Creates a hazard to health, safety, or building durability.
Use this method only if the existing rough opening is reasonably square and the frame is in good shape.
This involves trimming a solid core door blank to fit, placing hinges, installing a lockset, weatherstripping, and priming.
A skilled carpenter with the right tools can install a door in about 2 hours.
Manufacture doors on site for special situations such as open coal access areas adjacent to conditioned basements.
Use lead-safe work practices when lead-based paint will be disturbed.
Installing a pre-hung, energy-efficient unit that will fit the rough opening.
Consider installing a pre-hung unit if a commercially available unit will fit the rough opening.
This can be accomplished in much less time than retrofitting a door blank.
Use lead-safe work practices when lead-based paint will be disturbed.
This is a photo showing the installation of a new factory-replacement mobile home entry door.
Use a factory-replacement exterior pre-hung single door unit.
The door framing may have to be replaced or the floor repaired.
Mobile home domestic hot water tanks (DHWT) are generally situated in a closet on an outside wall with a separate outside access door.
Replace deteriorated doors with factory replacements.
Specify louvered doors if the home has fossil-fueled appliances to ensure adequate combustion air.
Window and door retrofits should be limited to minor repairs and weatherstripping.
Window and door replacements are generally not cost-effective and should only be considered as a last resort.
Consider the climate when selecting windows.
Use lead-safe work practices when disturbing lead-based paint.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for measuring, specifying, and installing windows.
Present this slide as an interactive discussion, soliciting personal examples from the trainees. Add your own personal examples and knowledge to supplement.
