How Spacers Can Affect the Energy Efficiency Of Vinyl Windows
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When considering the installation of energy efficient vinyl windows, pay close attention to the spacers being used.
Many people choose to install vinyl windows on their homes because they are affordable and more energy efficient than wood or aluminum windows. However, not all vinyl windows are the same when it comes to energy efficient performance. There are many considerations to take into effect when choosing new vinyl windows.
Energy Efficiency Is Increased By a Combination Of Technologies
Window manufactures use many technologies to enhance energy efficiency in vinyl windows. Most homeowners are aware of popular terms such as Low-E coatings and gas filled panes, but may not with understand the important role that window spacers play in the all-around energy efficiency of the window.
The Role That Window Spacers Play
The spacers in vinyl windows are important because they maintain the proper distance between the glass panes in the window unit and keep the unit sealed. Modern window units experience the most heat loss in the edges of the window. A window with a poor quality spacer can lead to increased heat loss and condensation on the inside of the glass. As a result, many manufactures use innovative designs and materials to maximize energy efficiency of their window spacer systems. When choosing vinyl windows be sure to look for windows with a silicone foam spacer or a stainless steel spacer system. Avoid aluminum spacers.
If you are more concerned about the final cost of the installation, you will have to sacrifice efficiency. If you choose to spend a little more money, you will be rewarded with lower energy costs. If you are interested in learning more about how window spacers affect energy efficiency on vinyl windows in Burnham, IL, contact the window installation specialists at Preferred Window and Door. They have been installing windows in the Burnham, IL area, the southern Chicago suburbs, and N.W. Indiana since 1994. For more information, call us at (708) 895-3667.
Google Rating
4.7
Based on 153 reviews
Preferred Window and Door Inc
4.7
Carver Challenger
20:34 23 Oct 23
Kevin did a fantastic job installing my new garage door today! (10/23)He was friendly, professional, and was done in a just a few hours! I'm impressed! Thank you Kevin, and thank you PWD!
James Beecher
21:33 26 Sep 23
Had the pleasure of working with Bob and his crew in Crown Point. The attention to detail they put into their work is tremendous!If you were in the market for windows or doors, then I definitely would consider calling this company!
Adeeb Odeh
22:05 02 Jun 23
Cannot Rave enough about how professional and punctual this company is! Had such a pleasant experience from beginning to end. From Bill the Salesman, to Danny who came out to measure and install our new door, to Danny who helped with the install to Bill who did our dry wall. We were able to replace our old Arch way door to a rectangular door and am so happy with the result. If you want a company and employees who will actually show up to give the quote and aren't afraid to tackle challenging tasks (ours was definitely not an easy job), and be professional about it, this is the company.
Craig Nelson
21:09 15 May 23
I began obtaining quotes for replacement windows in the the summer of 2022. I contacted Pella, Renewal By Anderson and The Chicago Window Guys. All were close in pricing but- the manner in which they dealt with complete interior oak trim work to match my existing trim varied from subpar to not at all- and ALL were $$$$. One would provide oak but unfinished leaving it up to me. I was close to resigning myself to picking one and then….By accident, I discovered Preferred Doors & Windows!!! After visiting their showroom and learning not only did they have terrific windows but have what they call “Trim-In-Time” system that is a pre-manufactured interior trim system for “your” exact windows. They can provide a variety of beautifully finished wood types as well as popular white pre-finished trim. When they walk away- you have a completely finished window as you specified- exterior AND interior.My Sales Rep (Rick) was knowledgeable, personable and never “pressured” me. I made my choices a few days later and purchased 13 casement replacement windows. On the day of installation, the crew of 8 began promptly at 7:30 and finished at 2:30. Every team member was courteous and professional and they cleaned up completely and hauled away my 30+ year old Anderson casements. Every person I have dealt with has been amazing - a shout out to “Cami” in scheduling- she is a joy to work with!! I spent years in sales and customer service and the team at PW&D’s is World Class and what all companies should strive for and- they also offer products to match!! You won’t go wrong!!An update to my windows installed last fall;PW&D installed a newfront doorw/ sidelight in mid April 2023 and I couldn’t be happier! The guys (Dan & Danny) were superb and so is the door itself!! As before, Cami and the service scheduling team were highly professional and super friendly and addressed every question!
heidi anderson
14:11 03 May 23
I absolutely love my new windows. Everyone associated with this project was wonderful and pleasant. They made this a painless experience. I'd recommend this company to everyone. Thanks guys!
Eric DeVries
19:12 11 Apr 23
Great Company! Installed an egress window at my house. Rick and Danny were great through the entire process. The office staff gave updates on the scheduling. Bob B was at my house working along side the crew. This is a top notch operation. My wife and I are thrilled with the results - everything turned out even better than expected! Kudos to the entire team that was at our house doing the work. Thanks Preferred Window for a quality project.
Tom Agema
13:07 24 Mar 23
A big thanks to the teams at Preferred Windows who replaced all of our windows this week. The salesman, Rick, was very helpful in getting us the information we were looking for and needed for our decision process as well as during the installation. Danny and his crews did a very professional job getting the whole house done in one day even with the added complication of a cold rain late in the afternoon. It was not an easy job but they accomplished everything we needed done. Thank you!
Anthony P
22:03 08 Mar 23
Update:I had made an initial review with some minor cosmetic issues. Within less than 12 hours, I received a phone call from Steve about the issues. The very next day, he and Danny came out to look over all the little issues I pointed out (I say little because I'm a bit OCD and these were minor blips and blemishes that were easy fixes). Even when they came out, Steve noticed a few things that he didn't like that I didn't pick up on.We all decided that the repairs and touch-ups could be done when the piece for the front door we were waiting for came in.A few days later, I was called for an update and status on the front door piece.A week or so after that, I was called and told the piece was in, and we scheduled a day for its installation and for the touch-ups/repairs.The day came, and Danny and another guy came to do the work, which was perfectly done.What I will say is that nothing is perfect. I called to let this office know of these minor issues, and they were right on top of making sure I was 100% satisfied and the work was to my liking.Once again, Danny did an exceptional job, as well as the guy he had with him to touch up the paint.Preferred Window and Door as proven to be an amazing company, and they definitely put their customers first, no matter how small the detail.I recommend this company to ANYONE looking for beautiful, durable doors and windows at a great cost and a truly "customer first" customer service.Bill Harding (sales), Steve (service manager), Danny (I think he is the project manager), and everyone else is truly amazing and extremely respectful.I'll definitely be scheduling more work with this company in the near future.
Craig Nelson
22:27 28 Dec 22
I began obtaining quotes for replacement windows in the the summer of 2022. I contacted Pella, Renewal By Anderson and The Chicago Window Guys. All were close in pricing but- the manner in which they dealt with complete interior oak trim work to match my existing trim varied from subpar to not at all- and ALL were $$$$. One would provide oak but unfinished leaving it up to me. I was close to resigning myself to picking one and then….By accident, I discovered Preferred Doors & Windows!!! After visiting their showroom and learning not only did they have terrific windows but have what they call “Trim-In-Time” system that is a pre-manufactured interior trim system for “your” exact windows. They can provide a variety of beautifully finished wood types as well as popular white pre-finished trim. When they walk away- you have a completely finished window as you specified- exterior AND interior.My Sales Rep (Rick) was knowledgeable, personable and never “pressured” me. I made my choices a few days later and purchased 13 casement replacement windows. On the day of installation, the crew of 8 began promptly at 7:30 and finished at 2:30. Every team member was courteous and professional and they cleaned up completely and hauled away my 30+ year old Anderson casements. Every person I have dealt with has been amazing - a shout out to “Cami” in scheduling- she is a joy to work with!! I spent years in sales and customer service and the team at PW&D’s is World Class and what all companies should strive for and- they also offer products to match!! You won’t go wrong!!
Book Appeal
03:54 20 Dec 22
Bill helped us pick out exactly the doors what we wanted, making great suggestions without pressuring us into anything. Installation was probably a nightmare, given the unusual measurements of some of our doors and the condition of the existing doors, but the end result is fabulous! Everything looks and works great and cleanup was thorough.
Ashley Legg
17:16 23 Sep 22
I cannot say enough good things about them. Bill and Danny both made the process so easy and were helpful from start to finish. The windows and craftsmanship with install are high quality. I would definitely recommend them to anyone and I will work with them again in the future. I love my new windows and slider door!
Donna M Jackson
11:55 15 Aug 22
My windows look beautiful. From the initial consultation to the installation and cleanup, the whole process was seamless as well as affordable. The workers were on time and work steadily until the windows were all installed, even when it began to rain. They were especially respectful of my mother who was not feeling well. I would highly recommend Preferred Windows and Doors.
mike harretos
01:19 09 Aug 22
Big thanks to Kevin and trainee Jonah on the installation of my new garage door operator. Looks clean and works great. thanks guys!
Nick
17:24 19 Jul 22
Garage door install went very smoothly with very friendly staff to guide you through the process. Would recommend.
Terrion
23:41 21 Jun 22
Bill Harding came out and looked at a home that I am purchasing. He was very thorough in his inspection and very knowledgeable on ALL things window related. He gave me sound advice on what needs to be done and how to proceed with the work I needed. He was very honest and I did not get the feeling that he was just trying to get a sale. He was genuinely trying to help and I appreciate that the most! Hope they take good care of the guy at preferred windows and I look forward to doing business with them!
Beth Cunningham
18:21 02 Jun 22
Top notch company! I needed a custom door very quickly and they made it happen!
G Money
22:10 11 Apr 22
needed replacement storm window glass. very helpful and courteous. provided me with an estimate and thorough explanation of process. classy place, great showroom.
Kris Fisher
01:13 05 Mar 22
Just had all new windows installed. These guys were FANTASTIC! Can't say enough good things about Rick (sales) and Danny (install foreman) and all the workers that came today. They were all professional and kind. Hard working and cleaned up after themselves. I would recommend them to everyone. Just terrific. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Shout out to the women in the office for making this experience a bit more great.
Jessica Peffer
03:08 01 Feb 22
Highly recommend this company! They were professional, courteous and did a great job! Our replacement storm door looks amazing! We will be using them in the future for windows.
Alana Konieczka
19:44 17 Jan 22
Excellent work. The crew worked hard to repair some damage that was already there. They were polite, courteous and communicated well. Customer service was also professional. I would highly recommend them.
Kate Coletti
19:38 03 Sep 21
Hired Preferred Windows and Doors to replace the windows on my entire house. They were prompt, professional and friendly. Their attention to detail is greatly appreciated. They did an excellent job and left the area cleaner than it was when they arrived. I am pleased with the quality service they provided.
Wendy Rios
20:40 30 Jun 21
Bill came to do my estimate and was on time and very friendly. He ran two separate estimates to help me decide what fell within my budget. Would recommend to others.
Steph
00:39 04 Jun 21
Superior Customer Service from start to finished. From picking out my door and Storm door to getting it installed, they made me feel like a valued customer. Ben, Lisa, Kami, and Seth you all are super amazing. Thank you for making me feel like a valued customer.
shawn Evans
01:35 12 May 21
My sale rep Ben is the best. Very knowledgeable about the product and what you're looking for excellent quality. My interior glass doors came out awesome. He even came to inspect after the job was done. Great work Ben Thanks
Dan Sytsma
14:05 19 Apr 21
Ben Flour was awesome with his demonstrations and wasn't pushy at all. The installers were excellent in cleaning up mess and putting finishing touches on doors and windows. The staff in office were very kind and informative of when my order was coming in. My whole house will soon be done with preferred windows and doors. Thanks again from Dale on down
Ron Koepl
16:24 05 Feb 21
Preferred replaced all of the windows in my house.My wife and I couldn’t be happier.The workmen were on time and professional in every sense of the word. It was a complete turn key job. They moved furniture, window treatments, and covered all of the adjacent areas. They had no problem answering any questions and I was especially happy with the detailing of the windows that was part of the install. The caulking was done neatly and professionally. All nail holes were filled. Not one smudge on a wall. The prefabricated casings matched our existing woodwork perfectly.I’m a retired construction superintendent who built high end restaurants and these guys exceeded my expectations.I highly recommend preferred window and door to anyone looking for high quality at fair pricing! These guys are real pros!
Rob Kozub
22:26 05 Jan 21
Exceeded my expectations, and I'd highly recommend! I had an exterior door, which was not a standard size, replaced. From the beginning of the process through completion of the project, everything went smoothly. I value when a company has excellent communication considering that they are the experts that are familiar w/ the process, and we are the consumers requiring their services. Preferred Window and Door did exactly that. Everyone I encountered along the project showed up on time and handled their job/role in a professional manner. I plan to contract w/ them in the future. Thanks!
Derrick Donaldson
00:20 06 Oct 20
For us, the quality of the product is great, but the experience is just as important if not more. Ben Flohr was our sales consultant. He was amazingly courteous, prompt, honest and fair. He patiently guided us through our purchase and lead us in the right direction. He always gave updates on the process and followed up to make sure we were pleased. The doors are fantastic as well. This company will thrive as long as they have individuals like Ben on their team.
Susanna Reed
16:29 12 Aug 20
Greatful for Curbside Service's,Mr Ben professionalism,--& literature keep you Guys Company Excelling Next job
Kelly Trump
16:09 12 Aug 20
Omg Had A broken Window in My Home called all around Illinois noticed Preferred windows across from our Residential area Called A Rep They Sent Rep the next day During the Pandemic Representative by the Name Of “Ben” Was Super Awesome and informative Saved me Money and The Quote was Great! fast Friendly and Well Worth it Thanks Preferred
j d
18:35 04 Aug 20
I can't say enough wonderful things about Preferred Window & Door. We have had them replace doors and windows at our house three times...and counting! Bill Harding is very knowledgeable, helpful and kind. Bill and Steve - who did the window installation were great - courteous and efficient. Thank you, Preferred Windows, for another job well done! - Jane Fritz
Raquel Kubon
22:39 26 Jun 20
Our experience with Preferred Window and Doors was nothing but prompt, courteous and professional from beginning to end. Ben Flohr was our sales consultant and he made the whole process a great experience!! He was super patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. He even came the day of installation to assure everything was going smoothly. We will definitely be using them in the future and would recommend Ben and the company to our family and friends
Douglas &Roberta Taylor
19:47 09 Jun 20
My door technician was a guy called Anthony, very personable. Knew his stuff. Had the parts on his truck. Got my door running just like new. its quiet and smooth.Thank you Anthony.
Arlene Jackson
14:14 29 May 20
A very professional job! I was very pleased with my front door replacement. The installer was great, he did the job in great time and cleaned up everything afterwards. He also went beyond and installed a replacement part that we never got around to installing on my existing storm door. I will call again when I need another door replaced!
Christine Gonzalez
15:35 03 Mar 20
Top Notch Company !!!!! Their whole team from Ben our sales guy, the ladies in the office and the installers where so professional. They did an amazing job throughout !!! Highly recommend this company.
Christine Gonzalez
15:35 03 Mar 20
Top Notch Company !!!!! Their whole team from Ben our sales guy, the ladies in the office and the installers where so professional. They did an amazing job throughout !!! Highly recommend this company.
Brad Johnson
15:17 11 Feb 20
My home has a large set of floor to ceiling windows that are very old and leak air badly. When looking for a company to replace these windows, we gathered estimates from several window companies. Preferred Windows filled us with confidence right away. They brought a portfolio of their work, they also brought product samples for us to look at. Our rep patiently answered all of our questions and happily resubmitted new bids to us as we changed our minds about materials and window types half way through the process. They made us feel comfortable and confident during the entire process. They were also the most competitively priced. When all was said and done, our new windows are gorgeous, well insulated and keep our house much warmer, with no more draft. We will be using Preferred Windows as we continue to replace all of the windows throughout our house.
Edwin
00:29 31 Jan 20
Ben Flohr was Awesome on coming out and Doing estimate and explaining the processes from start to finish. Preferred Window and Door Inc Installers came out and installed the door and did a awesome job they are very nice guys and very well knowledgeable on what they are doing. They're very Professional And they clean up afterwards. I would HIGHLY recommend Preferred Window and Door Inc for any job.
Liz Friedman
18:34 27 Jan 20
I could not be happier with my experience using Preferred Windows to replace the 14 windows in my condo. Rick was great to work with and answered all of my questions thoroughly and with good humor. Customer service is impeccable and the team that came to my house was prompt, friendly, and did a beautiful job with the install. The windows were installed just before a snowstorm and cold snap and I can happily say my home is warm as can be.
Liz Friedman
14:18 19 Jan 20
I could not be happier with my experience using Preferred Windows to replace the 14 windows in my condo. Customer service is impeccable and the team that came to my house was prompt, friendly, and did a beautiful job with the install. The windows were installed just before a snowstorm and cold snap and I can happily say my home is warm as can be.
Michael Fiala
21:59 16 Dec 19
Preferred Window and Door Inc is definitely a trusted repair company for windows and doors, especially double glass doors. They have one technician, named Eric, who is fantastic. He has integrity, knowledge of this service and is very informative with the repairs he is making. All of their staff is great, but special shoutout to him for going above and beyond. I prefer Preferred Windows and Door Inc for my glass door repair and you should too. Exceptional service.
Robert Geyer
20:09 06 Dec 19
Preferred has supplied doors for my home and business. Today, a year old interior shop door latched closed. Salesman Brian was here within an hour, with tools. He cut off the hinges, repaired the latch, replaced the hinges, and wished me a Merry Christmas. Fantastic service. Excellent product. Thank you.
george petro
18:45 29 Nov 19
Laura was very professional and helpful. She was able to find the right person for what I needed. Definitely will tell friends to consider Preferred Window & Doors in mind if they are replacing existing ones! Including garage doors.
Mary Daily
05:35 29 Oct 19
Preferred Windows and Doors is a really great company. Rick came out to give me an estimate and he was so thorough in explaining what work I needed to have done. Dan did a fantastic job on measuring the window; it was an octagon window and was a little tricky to match since the house is 28 years old. Scott and Bill worked diligently to install the window and their work was perfection! The window is beautiful and looks better than the original! Thank you for the awesome job you did! You were all so nice too!
Alison Gargas
01:41 23 Oct 19
Wow is All I can say!!! Thank you so much to the crew at Preferred! After 12 hours and a lot of hard work they did the job! We had 2 10X7 windows replaced in our home. No other company in the area could do the job and replicate our mid-century modern windows. Preferred installed gorgeous commercial grade windows..we got exactly what we wanted!
Kenneth Harris
20:12 22 Oct 19
We would HIGHLY recommend Preferred Window and Door Inc. We recently had windows/Patio door installed at our home and my daughter's home. At our first meeting, we worked with Bill Harding, who explained the window & patio door options. He was very professional and organized. He took the time to answer all our questions and concerns. He brought in a sample window and explained all the features. We were very impressed. Bill also ensured that the installations went smoothly and even came by on both dates. The installation team was very professional and friendly. They took pride in their work to make sure things were installed properly. They did an EXCELLENT job with cleanup! Thank you very much!!!
Disneynut1952
04:35 26 Jul 19
We have had three separate custom doors provided by this company. Each transaction was smooth, on time and installers were very knowledgeable and efficient. The products were top of the line. We are very pleased.Sales rep was patient and willing to work with us until we got it perfect. We had three great experiences.
Steve B
20:43 23 May 19
I really liked my experience with PD&W out of Lynwood, IL. I live in Dyer, IN so their showroom is very close to my home off of RTE 30 and also very nice inside. I had a patio door installed with the blinds between the glass on 5/2/2019. It looks great and since that day we have had some pretty big rains and zero leaks. I will use again in the near future for more projects.
Caribbean Pools
19:59 09 May 19
Preferred Window and Door replaced several of our upstairs office windows. Our salesmen Ben was very professional and knowledgeable when it came to our replacement options. He offered a wonderful value for the quality of work. These window replacements were done during our busiest time of year in the pool industry and we were able to continue working without any disturbance or disruption. We greatly appreciate this. The technicians John, Mike, and Bill were very courteous and professional and had all the windows installed in a timely manner. We would happily recommend Preferred Window and Door for any and all of your window and/or door needs. If we need anything else in the future we know who to call!
Shane Van Vossen
19:22 16 Apr 19
I just had a storm door installed and by John and mike. I can definitely say it was a pleasure doing business with preferred from the initial estimate to the installation. Bill ( salesman) was very knowledgeable and steered me in the right direction based on what I was looking for. He was very thorough about all of the different parts i could’ve ordered with the door and helped me choose the best options for the price range I was looking at. John and mike were extremely professional and did a wonderful job on the install. I will definitely do business with preferred in the future.
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