If you’re a homeowner, you may consider replacing your home’s windows. This is an important decision for many reasons.
Style, performance, design and material are all factors to consider when choosing the right replacement windows for your home. Make sure you take the time to think through all of these when making your selection carefully.
Style
Style is an important consideration when choosing the right replacement windows for your home. The windows you choose can boost your curb appeal or detract from it, so it’s crucial to understand the different styles and options available.
The most common window style is double-hung, which slides along a vertical track. These are easy to clean and maintain because they work against gravity, which prevents dirt from building up on them.
They also offer good ventilation and a variety of sizes and materials choices. They’re also easy to replace if they become damaged or worn.
Another popular choice is casement windows, which hinge at the side and open outward. These windows are particularly attractive in a Victorian or Craftsman-style home. They can also be combined with plantation shutters to reduce the heat coming into a room.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient replacement windows can save you a lot of money. They can also increase the value of your home.
A major part of the window’s energy efficiency depends on how it’s designed, how the material it’s made from is insulated, and what kind of installation you get. Right home windows can help to reduce heat gain and heat loss, which is responsible for about 25%-30% of heating and cooling energy use in a typical residential home.
You’ll want to choose double- or triple-pane glass with spacer systems and inert gas fills. This will slow thermal transfer making your home more comfortable in summer and winter.
Materials
Replacement windows are available in various materials and can be customized to match any type of home. The needs of the homeowner and their budget will determine which material is used.
Homeowners frequently choose vinyl because it is strong, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. It also comes in various hues, which can enhance the home’s aesthetic appeal as a whole.
Vinyl has been replaced more recently by fiberglass, which has some advantages. It is sturdy, requires little upkeep, and has a high level of rot resistance.
Another material for window frames is aluminum. It can be used to replace wood windows and is reasonably priced. However, it conducts heat, which may result in higher heating costs.
Additionally, there are clad windows, which blend wood with other substances like vinyl or fiberglass. These are perfect for anyone who desires the artistry of wood with the strength of a composite or fiberglass window.
Installation
Replacement windows are an exterior product that will have a significant impact on your home’s appearance. It’s important to choose windows that will blend seamlessly with your home’s existing trim, and that will perform the way you expect them to.
During the installation process, your contractor should use proper practices to ensure the crew’s and your property’s safety. For example, they should remove window treatments and wrap them in plastic to protect them from sand, dirt, and debris.
The crew should also inspect the window frame for rot, termite damage, and other concerns. A high-quality contractor should be able to repair minor rot or termite damage, but serious issues may need to be referred to a specialist.
Once the old windows are removed, a high-quality contractor will re-measure your opening for a replacement window that is about 1/4′′ smaller than the original. This space allows for the new window to be properly sized vertically and horizontally, allowing for a perfect fit in your opening.
