Shopping for new windows - does it have to be a “pane”?
Which windows are right for me? What is E value? Which windows keep out the cold?

If you’re considering replacing your energy-wasting windows, these are some of questions you’ll eventually have to ask...usually without getting an answer you completely understand. In this issue of “The Inside View”, we’re going to provide you with the keys to successful window shopping.

Before you start on this endeavor, find a reputable dealer. One who has extensive knowledge of today’s window technology, and the common sense to help you design and fit windows to your home. When you visit our showroom, you can see what a typical “retrofit installation” looks like. We have a professional Salesperson on hand to answer all of your questions, and to provide you with all the information you need.

At Hershocks, we’ll help you determine the best solution by evaluating your particular situation. For example, how much sun exposure does your home receive? What are your aesthetic preferencs? What are your lighting wants and needs, and your heating and cooling requirements?

Once these questions are answered, the first thing you’ll need to consider is the type of window frame that meets your needs and expectations. Your choices range from the traditional wood-framed windows, to vinyl, WoodClad, and, last but not least, aluminum. Make sure you choose a frame with a low “U-value” – a rating that gives us a measure of how heat escapes through a window. The lower the number, the more efficient the window. U-values range from .1 to .0, with .1 being the best.

Also be aware that ratings can change depending on the manufacturer. Some give the rating from the center of the glass, while others give the preferred value based on the entire window, including the frame. Your choice on window frames is also going to depend on maintenance.

For example, wood frames are known for their beauty, insulating qualities and low “U-Values”. But they also require a higher level of maintenance. On the other hand, vinyl-framed windows - the most popular framing option since 1998 - withstand harsh weather, corrosion and rust; and are easy to maintain.

If you like the look of wood but don’t want the maintenance, there’s the “WoodClad” line to consider. Another framing option is aluminum - typically used in more contemporary homes or homes that want to feature a view. At Hershocks, we’ll help you sort through all the choices, and help you make a decision that’s right for you and your home.

After choosing a frame, your second step is to decide on the type of glass. And yes, there are a multitude of choices to pick from – everything from glass that reduces exterior noise, glass that protects from ultraviolet rays, glass that resists impact while retaining its integrity, and glass that protects against condensation and increases energy efficiency. And, of course, glass that combines many of the above features.

Some of the ratings to consider are “sound transmission class ratings (STCR)”, “ low emissivity ratings (Low-E)”, and “solar heat gain co-efficient ratings (SHGC)”. What does all this mean to you? First if you live in a quiet neighborhood, it is recommended that your window glass have an STCR of 28. If you live next to the interstate, the recommendation increases to a 34 - 36 rating to help combat the noise.

Low-Emissivity (Low-E) coatings reduce the amount of heat a window radiates, and blocks ultra-violet rays up to 54%. Again, the lower the number the better the rating. Low-E will keep out the harmful rays from the sun, and help keep heating costs down during the winter months.

The “SHGC” rating measures the shielding property of a window and again, the lower the number, the better the window will do in protecting the home from solar heating. In other words, it will keep your cooling costs down during the summer.

Finally, if condensation is a concern to you, we have “warm edge technology”. In a typical window, the thermal resistance around the edge of a window is lower than it is in the center. Heat can escape, making the window susceptible to condensation. To alleviate this problem, manufacturers have created insulated glass units where the layers of glass are held apart by spacers, and the space is filled with a slow moving gas such as argon. The spacers absorb much of the glass movement that occurs when temperatures fluctuate, thus reducing the chance of seal failure and glass breakage.

Congratulations! You’re now ready to go shopping for windows! However, here’s just one more suggestion before you buy, check those warranties! While some manufacturers offer one, five or ten year warranties, others stand by their windows for a lifetime.

Now for the good news! For a limited time only, you can add a Low-E coating to any window or windows you purchase from Hershocks at no extra charge - one more good reason to pick up the phone and give us a call at 238-7331; or visit our windows and doors showroom today. We’ll be happy to take the mystery out of shopping for new windows!

The View From Here
Back by Popular Demand
It’s been about four years since we published our last issue of this newsletter. Like a lot of things, getting this document together is time consuming, and requires the attention of a number of different employees. And like a lot things that aren’t a top priority – it naturally gets put on the back burner.

But I’m happy to report that we’ve recommitted ourselves to this publication, and our intention is to publish at least twice a year from here on out.

A couple of things have changed since the last edition. First, we changed the name of the newsletter from Our View to The Inside View – because we really want to share with you as much inside “information” as we can.

Secondly, we’re going to highlight a Hershocks’ employee in each issue – the idea being that it gives us a chance to give credit where credit is due; and it gives you a chance to know all of us here a little bit better.

So that’s it…what our goals are for The Inside View – the all new and, we hope, much improved version of our company newsletter – published for friends, customers, and employees of Hershocks, Inc.

Before I go – a word about what you’ll find in this specific issue of The Inside News.

On the front page is our feature story about “How to Pick Windows for Your Home”, the first in a series of informational pieces about selecting windows. In this story we talk about how you can add the option of a Low-E coating (an invisible layer of metallic oxide that reduces the amount of heat that passes through the glass) to your window purchase at no extra charge. Our employee focus this issue features Charles Snyder. And finally, we provide tips for maximizing your home’s selling potential.

One more thing about this publication. Without you, The Inside View will never be the publication we hope to make it. So I invite you to send your comments or questions to my attention and we’ll do our best to include them in the next edition.

Sincerely,
Barry Deaven President, Hershocks Inc.

Employee Focus
At Hershocks, one of the most important keys to a successful business operation is the people who work here. In this issue of “The Inside View”, we are proud to feature Charles Snyder, a carpenter by trade, who has been working at Hershocks for 35 years.

“Charles came to work at Hershocks shortly after he got out of the Army,” explains Tom Bowman, Hershocks’ Residential Supervisor. “We have been fortunate to have Charles working for us. He is such a faithful and responsible employee.”

As a carpenter for Hershocks retail department, Charles is primarily responsible for the installation, service and repair of overhead doors. However, if needed, Charles also helps with the installation of entrance doors, folding doors, enclosures, and windows.

According to Charles, “I find that everyday brings a new challenge, which makes my job fun and interesting.”

A Vietnam Veteran, Charles was born and raised in Harrisburg. He is the father of four grown children, and a member of Marysville Church of God. He currently resides in Duncannon, and likes to hunt in his spare time.

Maximize Your Home’s Selling Potential
Quick & easy tips on preparing your home to attract buyers!

1. Consider your home’s “curbside appeal” – what the potential buyer sees from the curb. The buyer’s first impression is often the most important one because it determines whether he or she wants to view the property!

2. Spruce up the landscape, especially in the front yard. Some easy and inexpensive things you can do are add colorful flowering plants; water and fertilize the grass well so that it is green and lush; make sure the lawn, bushes and trees are well trimmed.

3. The front door should be in excellent condition. Considered the home’s primary symbol, the front door reflects the home’s general condition and gives an impression that affects one’s experience with the rest of the house.

4. Where applicable, give both the exterior and interior of the home a fresh coat of paint. More than anything else, this will suggest newness and freshness.

5. Repair leaky faucets, loose knobs and handles, crooked cabinet doors, anything that may give the wrong impression of the home’s overall condition.

6. Make sure shelves and counters are neat and empty as possible. Remove all objects and papers that make a room appear cluttered.

7. Remove extraneous furniture, especially furniture that blocks traffic patterns. The emptier the room, the more spacious it looks.

8. When showing your home, open all blinds and drapes so the room looks bright and cheerful. If necessary, turn on lights to brighten a dark space.