WestCon Tribune

March 1999

MARCH MEETING

NEW TECHNOLOGY WINDOWS

PRESENTED BY: DR. JAMES OÕBANNON, PRESIDENT, RICHARD HEATH ASSOCIATES

Windows in California homes can account for up to 50% of the heating and coolingenergy costs. High performance windows are the single best "tradeoff" to choose when considering which components to use in order to meet codecompliance - especially those utilizing the new generation of spectrallyselective glazing, which is virtually clear, yet cuts solar heat gain bynearly 50%. It is possible toessentially double the performance of the windows for a moderate increasein cost, while reducing the cost of other components, potentially reducingthe overall construction cost of the house.

Dr. James O'Bannon, president and founder of Richard Heath and Associates, will be giving an overview of the normal two hourseminar, "An Essential Windows Workshop for Design Professionals",sponsored by PG&E.. Dr. O'Bannon will explain new technologies available and some of the advantages of high-performance windowsand glass doors. His presentation will include the following topics:

- An update on window industry changes that affect the way windows are specified.

- The science behind new technology windows.

- Criteria used to properly select windows for maximum efficiency and comfortin various climate zones.

- Heat loss and gain through frames, spacers and glass.

- Building Codes and installation standards

- Title 24 changes and new energy regulations.

- Changes in labeling.

- Energy rating factors.

- Installation processes.

- Alternatives to dark glass.

- Gas-filled windows and "warm edge technology" spacers.

Dr. O'Bannon is a nationally known energy-efficiency expert and a full professorin the Construction Management Department at California State University,Chico. In 1996 Dr. O'Bannon developed the PG&E Financing Program Window Installation Standards, whichcovers such topics as applicable test procedures, minimum grade and thermal performance, egress, safety-glass requirements, and warranty requirements.To facilitate training for high-performance windows, Dr. O'Bannon, under contract to PG&E, developed a pictorial reference guide foruse in contractor and inspector training that includes window types andtheir components, window placement for optimum ventilation and solar gain,energyefficiency of windows, and thermal performance labeling. Dr. O'Bannon is presently under contract with PG&E to provide window contractorcertification training, and to interface with Lawrence Berkeley Laboratoryfenestration experts and other PG&E consultants to evaluate new productimprovements in window technology.

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