[quote=afirsthomeowner]Hi freshman, I know a lot of cars here have tint windows, which normally came with a little dark color. What about the tint windows for houses? Do they also have some colors on? And how do I know whether the window is tinted or not? Thanks.[/quote]
afirsthomeowner, the new windows that have been released in 2009 are “Low E” and come in both double and triple-paned (1/2″ to 3/4″ thick) in various window styles. They are manufactured with “argon gas” between the layers of glass.
Select versions of these windows are eligible for tax credits of up to $1500 for 2009 and 2010 ($5000 purchase for the full credit). I purchased a large picture window in December 2009 called Pella SunDefense at Lowes, when they were running a special. These particular windows have white vinyl frames and truly do keep out the heat and cold and act as “sunglasses” for your room so that your carpet and furniture don’t fade.
These windows are awesome and do everything they are advertised to do. The way you can tell a window is “Low E” is to look at it carefully from the side. It has a subtle green or gray tint to it, which is not discernable looking at it directly. From the inside of the house, they make the outside truly come alive – actually make you feel as if you are outside. Some are designed to see out of, but not into from the street.
This type of window also comes with a wood frame, but it is much more expensive.
I can’t imagine that new construction is using these windows yet, as they are fairly new on the market and there hasn’t been much construction in the last year or so.
