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GBlist: Instantaneous window performance



Rod, et. al.
     I'm with Jorg on this fact.  Long term performance and durability is a
major weakness in comparing window products.  That is one of the reasons why
I am hesitant to "jump" to new technologies and new manufacturers that have
not stood the test of (at least) time. 
     There are some standards activities underway to bring some more "real
world" durability data to the marketplace.  One can simply look to the field
data by the Sealed Insulating Glass Manufacturers Association (SIGMA) that
shows over 10 percent field failues of IG units after 10 years!  That's just
ONE reason that IG seal durability is among the most important aspects of
long term window energy performance.  Again, look to the IG warranty as one
measure of expected durability.
     Hardware is another subject altogether.  Did YOUR windows go through
10,000 cycles of opening, closing, locking and cycling?  (Subject for another
rant on another day....)

By the way, there are several window testing laboratories that can do
accellerated testing of windows to a variety of user-defined conditions.
 There are no standard conditions yet (except for IG units alone).  Try
Architectural Testing in York, PA 717-764-7700 or ETC Laboratories in
Rochester, NY 716-328-7668 among others.  Check NFRC's list of labs for other
potential US and Canadian labs that might be able to help.

Chris Mathis
MCSquared
 
<< Rod: Accelerated testing on windows can be done, but I am not sure which
 testing facility is (capable of) doing this and the cost. However, it is
 very important and would give you far more meaningful numbers and
 perhaps better reception by both professionals and the public to the
 current set of lables and ratings, which must be considered in the
 light of their serious weaknesses and limitations. This instantaneous
 testing of windows (or any other artifact) is a serious Achilles Heel of
 the "laboratory" testing industry.>>

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