Frequently Asked Questions

General

Who is Alpen?

Alpen High Performance Products is a Colorado-based supplier of custom-built, high-performance windows, doors, and architectural glass. Founded in 1986, Alpen is dedicated to creating energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions. The company combines advanced materials and innovative designs to lower the environmental impact of buildings while delivering exceptional performance, durability, and craftsmanship. Read more about us and watch the video on our About Alpen page.

What is the lead time for Alpen windows and doors?

From order through assembly and quality control, Alpen windows and doors take 4-8 weeks to be built by our skilled team on the production floor. Lead times are longer for custom orders.

Can new windows be a tax write-off?

Some energy efficient windows are eligible for the US Energy Efficient Home Improvement tax credit, and many additional financial incentives become available when you install qualifying windows. More information can be found here.

How can I see a sample of your windows and doors?

We understand the importance of being able to touch, feel, and see an example of our high-performance windows before placing your order. Fill out our Order Sample form, and a representative will contact you to confirm your order and process payment.

How does shipping work? Can Alpen ship windows to me?

Alpen ships its custom-built windows and doors directly from our manufacturing facility to locations across North America. Our centrally-located facility in Louisville, Colorado allows for efficient shipping, which translates to lower shipping costs and shorter lead times. Our certified, proprietary gas retention technology allows us to offer gas-filled windows to clients at high altitude, ensuring structural integrity by preventing issues like bowing, warping, or breakage.

Can Alpen windows be used in retrofitting projects?

Our windows and doors are compatible with new builds and retrofit projects. Contact us today to see how we can help.

We also offer WinSert, a secondary window system that can be installed on the interior side of existing windows in commercial buildings (not available for residential.) It significantly improves thermal and acoustic performance without requiring full window replacement.

Who are Alpen's typical clients?

Alpen serves a diverse clientele, including homeowners, architects, builders, and commercial developers, ESCOs, and government agencies who prioritize energy efficiency, sustainability, and durablility.

Energy Efficiency

What type of window is most energy efficient?

Windows with three or four panes of glass, coupled with insulating silicon-like spacers, stand out as the most efficient option. Standard double-pane windows with metal spacers cannot match the insulating capabilities of these advanced designs. Triple and quad-pane windows with fiberglass or fiberglass-reinforced frames and low-emissivity coatings can significantly reduce your home's energy consumption and associated costs by minimizing heat transfer.

We encourage you to explore the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Product list, which showcases products that have undergone rigorous laboratory testing to ensure they meet the highest standards of energy efficiency.

What is the most efficient R-value for a window?

R-value is a measure of thermal resistance, indicating how effectively a window insulates against heat transfer. While R-values for windows typically range from 1 to 4, at Alpen, our cutting-edge window solutions boast R-values of up to R-11, setting new standards in the industry and ensuring that your home remains comfortable, no matter the weather outside.

However, R-value is just one piece of the puzzle. Our team of experts can guide you through the intricacies of window performance, considering factors like U-value, glazing, and frame materials to tailor a solution that meets your specific.

Why upgrade to energy-efficient windows?

Findings from the Department of Energy estimate that 25%–30% of a household's heating and cooling energy escapes through its windows. Opting for energy-efficient window solutions can significantly reduce heat transfer, thus alleviating the strain on your HVAC system as well as the cost of your heating and cooling costs. Additionally, energy-efficient upgrades increase home resale value, help to mitigate noise pollution, and improve your overall comfort.

Can new windows be a tax write-off?

Some energy efficient windows are eligible for the US Energy Efficient Home Improvement tax credit, and many additional financial incentives become available when you install qualifying windows. More information can be found here.

What are the best windows for Colorado's climate?

The climate in Colorado is characterized by its diversity and variability, influenced by its high elevation and mountainous terrain. Recommended windows for maximum comfort and performance are triple-pane or quad-pane windows with a Low-e coating. Contact us for more information.

Do energy efficient windows really make a difference?

Do energy efficient windows really make a difference?
Absolutely. Research by the Department of Energy estimates that 25% - 30% of a household's heating and cooling energy can be lost through inefficient windows. By investing in energy-efficient window solutions from Alpen, you're not just upgrading your home's aesthetics; you're actively minimizing heat transfer and ensuring that the energy you pay for stays where it belongs. This translates into tangible savings on your energy bills, a more comfortable living environment, and an extended lifespan for your HVAC unit. Moreover, by reducing your home's energy consumption, you're actively contributing to the fight against climate change and reducing your carbon footprint.

What is the most important thing to look for when selecting a window for energy efficiency?

Having an understanding of U-values and how they work is an important first step. The U-value of a window is a measure of its overall thermal transmittance or heat loss. It represents the rate of heat transfer through the window due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside environments. In simpler terms, a lower U-value indicates better insulation and less heat loss. It’s also important to look for certification from entities like ENERGY STAR because those certifications are offered only to products that pass lab testing.

What is the purpose of energy efficient windows?

Energy-efficient windows offer a multitude of benefits. Research from the Department of Energy indicates that a significant portion of a home's heating and cooling energy can escape through its windows—up to a quarter to a third. By choosing energy-efficient window options, you can greatly reduce this heat loss, easing the load on your HVAC system and cutting down on your heating and cooling bills. What's more, these upgrades can add value to your home, help keep noise levels in check, and make your living spaces more comfortable overall.

Are energy efficient windows worth it?

Because of the innumerable benefits gained by installing energy efficient windows, (increased comfort, heating and cooling cost reduction, soundproofing, increase property value, etc.), most people are satisfied with their decision to upgrade.

What's the best way to purchase energy-efficient  windows?

Your purchase should start with a thorough consultation to discuss your needs and determine which energy-efficient window solution is right for you. You can also visit our showroom or order samples to interact with our products. From there, you will receive a quote to review. If you are satisfied with the quote, your order goes into the production queue!

Alpen Products

What makes Alpen a better window company?

Alpen stands out as a better window company due to its 40-year history of leadership in the field, pioneering the most efficient window and glazing solutions available. Our commitment to sustainability is unmatched, as we utilize advanced materials like fiberglass frames and high-performance glass to deliver unparalleled energy efficiency. Alpen’s long-standing expertise and innovative approach ensure that our products not only meet but exceed industry standards for energy performance and environmental responsibility.

What is Alpen's approach to sustainability?

Alpen windows are engineered with sustainability at their core. Utilizing proprietary thin glass technology and uPVC or fiberglass frames, these windows significantly reduce energy loss, directly contributing to lower operational carbon emissions. The materials used in Alpen products are carefully selected for their durability, low embodied carbon, and environmental responsibility, ensuring long-term performance with a minimal environmental footprint.

How does Alpen ensure the quality of its windows?

Alpen rigorously tests its windows to meet and exceed industry standards for energy efficiency, durability, and performance, ensuring long-lasting quality. Alpen ensures the quality of its windows through rigorous testing and precise craftsmanship. Each window is built using advanced materials and advanced glazing technologies, ensuring superior energy efficiency, durability, and performance. All Alpen products are backed by warranty.

What maintenance do Alpen windows and doors require?

Alpen windows are known for their high performance and energy efficiency. However, like any window, they may require some routine maintenance. This can include cleaning, lubricating the hardware, inspecting seals, checking for moisture, or tightening fasteners. Contact us if you need more information.

What types of windows does Alpen manufacture?

Alpen manufactures a range of high-performance windows, including casement, awning, sliding, single-hung, double-hung, and fixed windows, all designed to maximize energy efficiency and sustainability. Alpen windows are offered with triple or quad pane insulated glass units.

Does Alpen offer custom window solutions?

Yes, Alpen offers custom window solutions tailored to the requirements of each project. Our customization options include a frame material, glazing types, colors, and hardware choices. Whether the goal is to achieve specific energy efficiency standards, complement architectural designs, or adapt to particular climate conditions, Alpen collaborates closely with architects, builders, and homeowners to deliver windows precisely suited to each project’s needs.

How does Alpen compare to other high-performance window companies?

Alpen is a leader in high-performance window technology, offering products that often outperform those of other companies in terms of energy efficiency, durability, and sustainability.

Can Alpen windows help with soundproofing?

Yes, Alpen's high-performance windows offer excellent sound attenuation, making them an ideal choice for reducing noise in both residential and commercial settings