Replacement Windows, Vinyl Padio Doors & Vinyl Siding    

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

R

R-Value:  The amount of resistance a material has to heat flow. It is the inverse of the U-factor (R = 1/U) and is expressed in units of hr-sq ft-°F/Btu. A high-R-value window has a greater resistance to heat flow and a higher insulating value than one with a low R-value.

Radiation:  Wave energy transmitted directly from one object to another through the atmosphere or through transparent or translucent materials in the form of electromagnetic waves. The energy radiated is transmitted, absorbed, reflected or a combination of all three.  Energy from the sun reaches the earth by radiation.

Rafter:  Structural members of a roof that support the roof load and run from the ridge to the eaves (overhang).

Rail:  The horizontal sections of the sash.

Raised Exterior:  An angled extension from the frame that adds an aesthetically pleasing dimension to the exterior of the window.

Reflectance:  The ratio of reflected radiant energy to incident radiant energy.

Reflective Glass:  Window glass coated to reflect radiation striking the surface of the glass. Different than mirrored glass, reflective glass allows normal sight in and out of the window.

Relative Humidity Condensation Point:  The relative humidity level at which visible water vapor or other liquid vapor begins to form on the surface of the sash or frame, based on an inside temperature of 70E F and an outside temperature of 0E F. The higher the percentage, the more moisture the air can hold before condensation will occur.

Refraction:  The deflection of a light ray from a straight path when it passes at an oblique angle from one medium (such as air) to another (such as glass).

Replacement Windows:  Replacement windows take the place of existing windows when they have become deteriorated, drafty or non-functional.  Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, or recently, a composite of wood and plastic.  Not to be confused with New Construction Windows that come with an attached nailing fin along the outer frame that’s used to attached the window to the home before the application of the exterior siding.  New-construction windows typically are of inferior quality as builders continually try to keep costs low, whereas replacement grade windows are of higher quality to replace the original new construction windows.

Retrofit:  Adding or replacing items on existing buildings. Typical retrofit products are replacement doors and windows, insulation, storm windows, caulking, weather stripping, and vents.

Roll Formed Screen Frame:  A method of fabrication in which a flat (usually metal) material is placed on a machine where the material is formed into shape using differently shaped rollers and pressure.

Rough Opening:  The opening in a wall in which a window or door is to be installed.  Usually unfinished and between the structures framing (studs).

Rough Sill:  The horizontal rough framing member, usually two inches by four inches, which forms the bottom of the rough opening. It is toe-nailed into the jack studs and is supported by cripples