How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are made for keeping cold air out and warm air in. They reduce drafts, which can help lower costs for energy and reduce wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner.
However, choosing the right replacement windows for your home will require knowing your goals, wants and requirements for this particular project. You can get started by asking yourself a few simple questions.
Styles
There are many options when replacing windows. You might be replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or renovating an older cottage with wide expanses of Glass Window replacement and slimline aluminum frames. You could be building an addition and you want to select windows that match the architectural style of your home.
The most commonly used type of replacement window is the sliding gliding type which has slim vertical lines and a modern appearance that can be personalized with shades or blinds that are between-the-glass. The gliding design also allows for great ventilation and it is easy to clean your windows inside.
Casement windows are another popular option. They are easy to open from either the side or top which allows you to ventilate your home more effectively. These windows can be set up with or without a transom according to your preference. These windows are a great choice for openings that are larger than the standard sizes, such as a bay or bow window.
Awning windows, on other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened like a door. They're ideal for sizing up an area with a limited space or for adding more light to dark rooms. The windows have fixed handles or a crank handle to make opening and closing much easier.
Insert replacement windows are another type you could choose for a particular project. These windows are designed to fit in the frame's opening and protect the original trim and siding. These windows are especially efficient for homes with a specific architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in regards to the brick mold and nailing fin. It's important to understand the differences between the two types prior to deciding on windows for your home. New construction windows are also suitable for new additions or structures with clear openings that don't have existing siding.
If you're considering replacing your existing windows, call a Pella showroom to explore your options and choose the perfect replacement windows for your home. You can also look through images of stunning replacement projects in our online gallery to be inspired.
Materials
The frame material that you select will affect the appearance and performance of your replacement windows. You should choose the right material for your budget and style goals. There are five options including wood, vinyl, clad-wood, and aluminum.
Each frame type has its own distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, while wood has a timeless look and superior insulation. Aluminum is resistant to harsh climates and clad wooden frames appear like natural wood, however they are more resistant to scratches than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a great option for log cabins, historic homes, and Craftsman-style homes.
The right frame material will have a significant impact on your home's appearance as well as energy efficiency. New window technology has reduced air infiltration to nearly zero and, when combined with the right glazings they can cut down the cost of cooling and heating by up to 40%.
Double-hung windows consist of two large sashes which move vertically along tracks. They are supported by springs and are able to be opened and closed. They're a popular option for homeowners as they offer versatility and fit many architectural styles. However, they're less efficient in energy than other window types and their sashes could become brittle or corrode as time passes.
A bow or bay window glass replacement near me is a combination of three or more windows into one unit and provides more light and space than a typical single-hung or casement window. They can be customized to suit any space. Bay and bow windows provide the perfect opportunity to let more natural light into a dark space or to add dramatic appeal to an entranceway.
Sliding doors are the ideal solution for people who do not want to open their windows. They can be erected in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall above the door. They are available in a broad variety of styles and colors to match your personal style.
In-swinging windows require more maintenance because they open inwards rather than outwards. However, they do prevent air leaks and are effective insulators. In addition to being simple to clean, they're also a popular option for kitchens and bathrooms.
Cutouts
There are a myriad of styles of replacement windows you can choose from, based on the style of your home and its requirements. These include picture windows that are stationary and Glass window Replacement don't open and are double-hung windows, casement and shaped windows. In most cases, you can install these kinds of windows over windows to drastically alter the appearance of a room without significant changes.
During the installation process the window's original screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving a frame which the new window will slide right over. These frames are referred to as "jump frame" because the new window will jump over the old one to conceal it. Occasionally, if the original frame extends into the opening, it's possible to trim off a portion of that frame, but it's crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is vital to allowing air and water to infiltrate.
You may also want to think about full-frame replacement windows for your home. These are used to replace windows or to install additional windows. They come with nailing fins made from metal which are usually hidden behind the drywall when the window is put in. They are a great option for older homes since they look just like the original windows that were in the house.
When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is in line with the surrounding logs in order to keep moisture from seeping into the house. This can be accomplished by using a caulking product that matches the product or by building a box of 2x4s inside the framed opening and sealing it with the adjacent logs.
If you opt to use a full-frame replacement window, it's important that you employ a professional installer. They will have all the tools and equipment needed to work safely from ladders and scaffolding. They will also know how to install the window in a way that it is both sturdy and energy efficient. They are also aware of the importance of performing an in-depth examination of the window following installation and will ensure that all components are functioning as they should be.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when replacing windows. Older windows let cold and heat to escape, resulting in higher the cost of energy. Modern replacement windows help control temperature and are insulated, which helps reduce the load on your HVAC. They let natural sunlight into your home, which decreases the need for artificial lighting.
When choosing new replacement windows, be sure to look for the ENERGY STAR label and ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council to determine their energy performance. The higher the rating the more efficient the windows. Energy STAR certified replacement windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 30%..
There are several factors that affect the energy efficiency of windows including frame and sash materials insulation properties, frame and sash material, as well as glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for example, are more energy-efficient than vinyl sashes, and wooden frames provide better insulation than aluminium. Double-hung windows offer higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.
ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows not only help reduce your energy costs, but also help to protect the environment by a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality because they reduce noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds to creep into your home, such as traffic, barking dogs and even loud music. New windows cut down on the noise that can disturb you, allowing you to relax and unwind in your own space.
If you are replacing windows, windows should be easy to open and close, as well as clean. Consider tilt-in windows that allow you to access difficult-to-access areas. You'll want windows that have alarms and locks that lock securely.
If you're replacing windows in a historic building or simply updating your home, a high-quality installation is crucial. The best replacement windows can cut down on energy costs, increase security and comfort, and also improve curb appeal. For more information, visit a showroom or browse the options online.