Egress requirements specify a minimum window opening size that must be large enough to crawl through in case of an emergency.
When determining the size of an egress window note the following:
Fiberglass mesh is the standard material used on all Ply Gem operable windows and sliding patio doors. Additional screen mesh is available on select products for advanced benefits:
Ply Gem does not install windows and doors but products are sold to an extensive network of qualified contractors and builders. Installation instructions and resources are available to aid in accurate installation.
To ensure proper window installation, follow the provided installation instructions and the ASTM Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors, and Skylights.
Perform a visual and functional inspection of each window to help ensure they are installed properly.
Available on Ply Gem windows, a Window Opening Control Device (WOCD) is a self-activating vent latch that limits how far a window can open, restricting it to less than 4 inches. This feature enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidental falls while still allowing for an escape route in case of an emergency.
The terms Design Pressure (DP), Performance Grade (PG), and Structural Test Pressure (STP) are crucial elements of window and patio door testing. Each term addresses unique aspects of window and door testing.
Design Pressure (DP) focuses on structural strength and represents the maximum wind load, in pounds per square foot, a window or door can withstand without breaking or deforming.
Performance Grade (PG) evaluates multiple aspects of window and door performance, including structural strength, air infiltration resistance and water penetration resistance.
Structural Test Pressure (STP) also focuses on structural strength, STP applies a higher pressure during testing to verify the component’s ability to withstand extreme loads. The design pressure is often exceeded by a specified percentage to ensure it meets specified safety margins.
Window glass can crack when a mechanical force is applied. It can also crack due to thermal force from large temperature differences between parts of the window.
Mechanical forces may include wind, flexing of the window frame due to house settling, or excessive construction or hammering close to the window. Glass is not a homogenous product by nature, and it is not stable under stress from temperature changes.
The above types of cracks are extremely hard to predict, and the cause is practically impossible to determine. This is why Ply Gem does not offer a warranty for this type of window cracking.
Here are a few tips to help homeowners control moisture levels in their homes and decrease the chances of window condensation.
Choose the optional Window Opening Control Device (WOCD) on single and double-hung windows. This self-activating vent latch limits the window’s opening to less than 4 inches. This feature enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidental falls while still allowing for an escape route in case of an emergency.
When storing windows and doors in high-heat environments, they must be protected from direct sunlight. Preferably, they should be kept in a shaded area with good air circulation. If possible, store windows inside or in a climate-controlled space.
When storing windows and doors in high-heat environments, they must be protected from direct sunlight. Preferably, they should be kept in a shaded area with good air circulation. If possible, store windows inside or in a climate-controlled space.
When viewed from outside the home, right-venting casement windows have hinges on the right side. From inside, they are located on the left, and the window will swing in the same direction as the hinge location.
When viewed from outside the home, left-venting casement windows have hinges on the left side. From inside, they are located on the right, and the window will swing in the same direction as the hinge location.
Single hung windows have fewer moving parts, which increases their weather resistance and can make them slightly more energy efficient than double hung windows.
When viewed from outside the home, a right-venting sliding window glides horizontally open from left to right, while a left-venting sliding window glides horizontally open from right to left.
When viewed from outside the home, a right-venting sliding patio door slides open from left to right, and a left-venting sliding patio door slides open from right to left.
Vinyl is available in various neutral colors and retains its appearance because the color is molded throughout the profile for durability and low maintenance. Coextrusion technology, durable laminates, and heat-reflective paint also make vinyl windows and doors available in various stylish dark colors, interior woodgrain finishes and distinctive exterior colors.
Aluminum windows and doors have an electrostatically applied finish that provides uniform, resilient coverage in various colors.
Aluminum-clad window and door exteriors have the most extensive selection of factory-applied, heat-cured painted finishes that are colorfast and durable.
When looking from the outside of the home, patio door “handing” indicates the side with the movable door panel. If the operable panel is located on the left side, the door is considered left-handed. If the operable panel is located on the right side, the door is considered right-handed.
When looking from the inside of the home at casement windows, the side of the locking lever indicates the handing. If the locking lever is on the left, it is a left-handed unit; if it is on the right, it is a right-handed unit. From the outside of the home, the handing can be determined by which side the hinges are located
Ply Gem windows and doors are sold through our large network of trusted distributors, lumberyards, contractors and retail locations.
