Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Single hung windows/vinyl windows

[Joe Nolan (jnolan]

Diane Simpson

>Have any cohousing groups used single hung windows?

One problem with any type of sliding window is air-tightness. Because 
they need to slide, the sash needs to be a bit "loose". Usually the 
locking mechanism presses the sash tight against the weatherstripping, 
but many people forget to lock them. And I've noticed over time with our 
single-hungs that the lock hardware can wear out, preventing the window 
from being sealed tightly - this is especially true in the CH where 
there is more wear & tear. If you're in a mild climate, maybe tightness 
is not so important, but if you're thinking about u-values, then it 
probably is. I chose all casements & awnings in my new home - I believe 
they seal better, and they offer a less obstructed view. If you are 
designing for passive solar, look to maximize the SHGC as well as 
minimize the u-value. Different low-e films have different characteristics.

You may want to avoid vinyl and PVC products generally for environmental 
reasons.

There's some good window info here:
<http://www.efficientwindows.org/>



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