Window Replacement

• Alside Windows - Alside.com
• Republic Windows - RepublicWindows.net

Columbus Exteriors preferred window vendor is Alside. It is with pride that Alside custom builds each one - just for you and your home. Custom-made to fit your exact window openings. Custom-made with state-of-the-art insulating vinyl frames and sashes that never need painting. Custom-made with tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning. An Alside Window System guarantees you a lifetime of energy savings, freedom from maintenance and a brighter, more beautiful, more comfortable home.

Window Replacement Frequently Asked Questions

In addition, you should certainly consider custom-sized windows for the very simple reason that they'll fit better. Stock-sized windows require extensive carpentry work both inside and outside your house. That can be very costly and inconvenient. Alside custom-sized windows, on the other hand, are manufactured to fit your existing window opening. You get the style and options you want while maintaining your glass area.

2. Is there any difference in how windows are made?
There are two basic types of construction: Mechanically fastened windows are screwed together at the corners. And welded windows, becoming more and more popular, that use a chemical or heat process for joining. Alside produces mechanically fastened and welded windows. Our mechanically fastened windows feature a unique overlap corner design for extra strength, while our welded versions utilize state-of-the-art heat welding equipment. Beware of windows with mitered corners screwed together or chemically welded corners, as they probably won't perform as well for you.

3. Can I replace my old windows with different styles or types?
Certainly, since all Alside replacement windows are part of Alside's Window System. You may want to consult an independent design specialist to find the type of window that best complements your home's natural design. No matter what style or combination of styles you choose, however, Alside can custom-manufacture it all for you.

4. Aren't all window manufacturers essentially the same?
Not at all. Many companies buy their parts and glass from various outside sources. At Alside, we extrude most of our own parts from the raw vinyl (PVC) resin ourselves.

You should also know that although a lot of manufacturers claim their windows are American-made, many in fact may be imported from Canada and other foreign countries. We're proud to say that every Alside window is manufactured right here in the U.S.A.

5. What about strength, protection and noise reduction?
You should look for a window that offers both superior strength and energy efficiency. Alside's computer-controlled process ensures a perfectly square window sash and main-frame with superior strength. And for exceptional energy efficiency, a full interlock at the meeting rail helps protect your home against the elements, or unwanted intrusions. In addition, our insulating glass unit traps dry air, creating an exceptional comfort barrier.

Moreover, homeowners with Alside Window Systems say there's a noticeable reduction in the amount of noise that enters their homes. A full interlock system at the point where upper and lower sashes meet helps stop air infiltration while providing an additional barrier against unwanted intrusions.

6. Do Alside windows require a lot of maintenance?
Because our frames and sashes are made of vinyl, you can say goodbye to painting and caulking. Alside windows won't stick, and you don't have to remove storm windows in order to clean them. In fact, you can do it all from inside your home. An occasional wipe with a damp cloth will keep your windows looking like new for years to come.

7. I have been reading about different test results on windows. How should this impact my buying decisions?
Be careful when looking at extremely specific results since many of them do not really indicate how well the window will work for you. Some apply to just certain parts of the window, like the frame and its R-value, and do not give an overall picture. Tested in nationally-certified labs and our own modern test facility, Alside windows are engineered to provide the optimum in energy savings and are rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council.

8. What is more important in saving energy, the frame or the glass?
Since 70% of a window is glass, real heating and cooling savings come from what is known as "improved glass performance," not a high R-value on the frame. Alside uses the latest technology, known as a high performance warm edge spacer system. This spacer system helps to improve the performance and the longevity of the insulated glass unit, and is standard on all Alside windows.

9. What energy-saving options should I know about?
You should give careful consideration to Alside's ClimaTech™ Insulated Glass Package, featuring LowE glass and argon gas. LowE glass is an excellent barrier against ultraviolet rays which fade carpet, furniture, draperies, and even woodwork. Argon gas is colorless, odorless, nonflammable, nontoxic, and above all, a safe, inert gas that is heavier than air.

Not only does argon gas help to increase the energy efficiency of a window, but helps to make your home quieter as well. When Alside windows are equipped with the ClimaTech™ Insulated Glass Package, they automatically meet or exceed the energy-saving requirements for all three climate zones set forth by the Energy Star Window program. Or you can get the ClimaTech™ Plus package with a foam spacer that provides even further energy efficiency as an option.

10. What is the Energy Star Program?
The Energy Star program was created by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to help consumers in the recognition of energy-efficient products. This program also promotes the environmental and economic benefits of these products through the Energy Star label and other program activities.

11. Will Alside windows be a good investment?
Yes, for a variety of reasons. First, you may realize savings on your heating and cooling bills. Second, they're virtually maintenance-free, which eliminates painting costs. And finally, the transferability of one of the strongest warranties in the business may easily add to the resale value of your home.

12. Aren't all window warranties practically the same?
Not really. There are as many warranties as there are window manufacturers. Some brand name factory warranties cover just the sash and frame. The rest is left up to the local fabricator who may or may not cover it. Your warranty is only as good as the company behind it. With Alside, your unit is warranted from the extrusion and parts to the glass and construction by our Lifetime Limited Warranty*, with transferability provisions. It's one of the most comprehensive available, just what you'd expect from an industry leader.

Double-Hung Windows

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

To tilt the lower sash, follow these steps:

1. Unlock the window.
2. Raise the lower sash a minimum of 3".
3. Pull both tilt latch buttons (located on the top rail of the sash) towards the center of the sash to disengage them from the main frame jambs. (photo 1)
4. With both hands, carefully pull the top of the lower sash in toward you to a horizontal position. (photo 2) Support the sash while cleaning the exterior. (photo 3)

To tilt the upper sash, follow these steps:

1. Lower the upper sash to at least 2" above the sash stops (located in the lower outside track).
2. Pull both tilt latch buttons toward the center of the sash to disengage them from the main frame jambs.
3. With both hands, carefully pull the top of the upper sash in toward you and rest it on top of the supported lower sash. (The upper sash cannot be tilted in without the lower sash being tilted in.) (photo 4)

To replace the sashes to the operating positions, hold the top rail of the sash with both hands and push it all the way into the main frame tracks. Make certain that the tilt latch buttons click in to lock the sash in the main frame. If the tilt latches are not reengaged in the main frame, the sash may fall inward unexpectedly.

Note: To tilt both sashes in, tilt the lower sash in first, then tilt in the upper sash. To reengage the sashes, reposition the upper sash first, then the lower sash.

Roller/Slider Windows

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

To remove the interior sash (or fight sash), follow these steps:

1. Roll the right sash to within 3" of the left side. This will enable the sash to bypass the burglar block located in the header of the main frame. (photo 1)
2. Lift the sash up into the header of the main frame as high as it will go.
3. Pull the bottom of the sash toward you. This will clear the rollers and sash frame from the main frame. (photo 2)
4. Lower the sash to the floor. (photo 3)

To remove the exterior sash (or left sash), follow these steps:

1. Roll the left sash to within 3" of the right side.
2. Lift the sash into the header of the main frame.
3. Pull the bottom of the sash toward you, and lower it to the floor. (photo 4)

Carefully clean the exterior of the sashes. To replace the sashes, simply reverse this process.

Casement Windows

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

To clean the casement window, follow these steps:

1. Turn the screen retainer clips 1/4 turn counterclockwise.
2. Remove the screen.
3. Clean the interior side of the sash.
4. Unlock the window. (photo 1)
5. Crank the sash all the way to its full open position. (photos 2 and 3)
6. Clean the exterior or the sash by reaching your arm through the space between the main frame and the sash. (photo 4)
7. To reinstall the screen, place it into the opening and turn the screen retainer clips 1/4 turn clockwise to hold it in place.

These instructions may not apply to egress models.

Window Do's and Don'ts

• Operate the 2 sashes biannually to keep the balances well lubricated.
• Open the top and bottom sash for improved ventilation.
• Use both hands to support sashes while tilting them in to clean.
• Support the sashes when they are in the horizontal or cleaning position.
• Make sure the tilt latches are fully engaged after tilting sashes back into the operating position.
• Make sure the top sash on a double-hung is closed and up all the way before locking the window.

Don't

• Leave the lock in the locked position when closing the windows, this will damage the keeper.
• Attempt to remove the sashes on double-hung windows.
• Use oil base spray lubricants such as WD 40, they attract dirt. Use a silicon spray for lubrication.
• Use abrasive-type cleaners to clean the glass or vinyl on these windows.
• Use solvents to clean the windows.
• Use the crank on a casement without unlocking the window first.
• Use a high pressure hose to clean the outside of a window.
• Install a window air conditioner in a vinyl window without adequate support.
• Paint or varnish vinyl windows.

Window Care and Cleaning

Glass can be cleaned with regular or other ammonia-based glass cleaners.

Vinyl (PVC) Products can be cleaned with a solution of mild soap and water. For heavier cleaning tasks, the window manufacturer recommends commercially advertised household cleaners. Use any non-abrasive cleaner for tough jobs. Do not use solvents, paint removers or sharp objects to clean your windows and patio doors.

Condensation is caused by excess interior relative humidity in the home. It is your responsibility to control your home's relative humidity. If mildew is a problem in your area, use an appropriate cleaner or mildew controller found in your local store.

The color of your vinyl windows is solid throughout all window components. Painting or varnishing is not required and will void the warranty.

The tracks of the slider, roller and double-hung windows are exposed to the outdoor elements, which can contain abrasive elements such as dirt, leaves, sand, grease, soot, etc. If these elements are not removed, they can be ground into the vinyl tracks when the sashes are operated. A minimum semi-annual cleaning is recommended. These tracks can be cleaned with a small, stiff nylon brush, then wiped down with a soft cloth. If necessary, an occasional light coat of silicone spray lubricant on the balance shoe track of a double-hung, and the tracks of a slider or roller window, will help ease the operation of your window without leaving an oily residue which can collect more abrasive elements.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safe use of any chemical or cleaner. Any cleaning information suggested in this manual is only to assist you. The window/door manufacturer assumes no responsibility for results obtained which are dependent on the chemical solutions as prepared, and quantity and method of application.

Screens:
Screens can be cleaned easily with a soft brush accessory from a vacuum cleaner. If a more thorough cleaning is desired and the screens need to be removed, follow these steps:

Double-hung

1. From the interior, raise both sashes to their highest position.
2. Raise the screen up to a point where you can get your hand on the lower aluminum frame section.
3. Push the screen to the left side of the window. The screen has springs on this side.
4. Once the screen is positioned as far left as possible, gently push the right side of the screen toward the exterior.
5. Once the right side is disengaged from the screen track, remove it from the left side as well.

To replace the screen to its tracks, follow these steps:

1. The springs should be positioned on the left. Place the springs in the left screen track.
2. Push the screen as far left as possible.
3. Pull the right side in, center it in the right screen track, and reengage it in that track.

To remove a screen on a roller window, simply pull up on the aluminum screen track bottom, placing it all the way up into the top screen track. Push out the bottom to clear the screen from the bottom screen track, and disengage the screen at the top.

To replace the screen, reverse the above steps.

Suggested Cleaning of Alside Vinyl Window System Sash Frames and Main Frame
The exterior surface of the window sash frames and main frame of the Alside Vinyl Window System will be exposed to airborne dirt depending on atmospheric conditions, which may be prevalent in the area. Rainfall may be adequate to remove surface dirt. In areas not accessible to rain, the vinyl window sash frames and main frame can be washed periodically. If you desire to do a more thorough cleaning, or where dirt collection conditions occur, follow these simple instructions.

For hard-to-remove dirt such as soot and grime, wipe the vinyl window sash frames and main frame down with a solution consisting of the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup powdered detergent Tide, Fab or the equivalent
• 2 /3 cup household cleaner Soilax, Spic & Span or the equivalent
• 1 gallon water

CAUTION: WHEN USING ANY OF TIE ABOVE CHEMICAL CLEANING AGENTS, FOLLOW THE PRODUCT MANUFACTURER'S PRECAUTIONARY SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS ON CONTAINER LABEL. PROTECT AGAINST CONTACT OF THE SOLUTION WITH EYES OR SKIN.

GREATER CONCENTRATIONS MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE VINYL WINDOW SASH FRAMES AND MAIN FRAME. DO NOT USE CLEANSERS CONTAINING ABRASIVE PARTICLES, SOLVENT OR PAINT REMOVER FOR CLEANING THE VINYL WINDOW SASH FRAMES AND MAIN FRAME.

This cleaning information is suggested in an effort to be of assistance; however, Manufacturer can assume no responsibility for results obtained which are dependent on the solution chemicals as prepared and method of application.

Click here for Alside Window Warranty Information

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