05 Nov 2009, Posted by Shawn in Featured, Green, Showcase, Suppliers, Sustainability, 2 Comments, Short-URL:http://portlandbuilt.com/7p1yy
Serious Windows Comes to Portland
Serious Windows have been around for some time now, but only recently have they been readily available in the Portland market. Medallion Industries (a site partner) is the distributor of Serious’ triple-pane windows, providing a much-needed solution for architects, designers, and green-motivated homeowners.
Unlike most windows (which have an R-value between 2 and 3.5) Serious Windows are rated between R4-R11…in some cases, 4x better than Energy Star requirements! Here’s a chart showing the performance advantage of Serious Windows.
Considering that the minimum R-value for an insulated 2×6 wall is around R-21 (minimum in Portland), you can see why windows are such an issue for energy efficiency. If you build a home full of basic, double-pane windows (R2), you’re essentially working with a bunch of “energy holes” in your otherwise efficient building. While no window will come close to the R-value of an insulated wall, Serious’ Windows make a massive difference in your home’s efficiency.
In the coming weeks we’ll be talking more about the Serious Window line and how the technology is revolutionizing the building industry. In the meantime, check out the Serious site or visit Medallion’s Serious Windows page for more information.
(Photos and graphic credit: Serious Windows Website)
2 Comments
November 19, 2009 12:19 pm
Jack
Thanks for bringing R-value into the window discussion — with the current tax credits, I see a lot of people who think that they are getting a big improvement when going from the code-mandated U=0.35 up to a U=0.30 window. I’ll be sure to use your graphic when talking to clients about windows.
November 19, 2009 4:08 pm
Shawn @shawnbusse
Hi Jack – Welcome to Portland Built!
Isn’t it great to have a window that gives your clients a chance for a real upgrade? Certainly the Serious Windows come with a price tag, but if you’re going to the expense of building passive, LEED, or even just highly energy efficient, it makes sense to look at this option.
I just visited a home out in Happy Valley that had the Serious Windows installed. Built by John Mead of Cellar Ridge Homes, this house was shooting for LEED Platinum and used Serious Windows all throughout. The windows looked amazing, and went a long way towards his LEED goals.
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