How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed to keep cold air out and warm air in. They help reduce drafts, which lowers energy bills and reduces wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.
To choose the best replacement windows for your house it is important to first understand
window replacements your goals, needs and wants. A few simple questions can help you start.
Styles
When it comes time to replace windows, there are many styles to choose from. You could be replacing double-hung windows in your home with uPVC ones, for example or remodeling a period stone cottage with large expanses of
glass window replacement and slimline aluminium frames. Perhaps you're in the process of building a new addition and would like to select windows that match your architectural style.
The most sought-after kind of replacement windows the sliding gliding model, offers sleek vertical lines and contemporary design that can be personalized by adding between-the-glass shades or blinds. The gliding style also permits excellent ventilation and allows you to easily clean your windows inside.
Casement windows are a popular choice. They can be opened from the side or top which makes it easier to let air into your home. These windows can be installed with or without a transom according to your preference. These windows are an excellent choice for openings that are larger than the standard sizes, such as a bay or bow window.
Awning windows, on other hand, are hinged at the top and can be opened as a door. They are ideal for sizing an area with a limited space or to add more light to a dark room. They come with either a fixed or crank handle for easy opening and closing.
Another style that you might choose for a specific project is an insert replacement window. These windows are designed to fit inside the frame's opening and keep the original trim and siding. These windows are particularly effective with homes built in the century and have a specific architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It's important to understand the differences between these two types before selecting windows for your home. New construction windows are also suitable for new constructions or buildings with clear openings that do not have existing siding.
Contact a Pella showroom today to find out more about the options available and find the ideal replacement windows for you home. Explore our online gallery for inspiration and browse pictures of stunning replacement windows.
Materials
The frame material that you choose will influence the appearance and performance of your replacement windows. It is important to select the best material that fits your budget and design goals. There are five options that include wood, vinyl as well as aluminum.
Each type of frame has its own unique benefits. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, whereas wood is timeless and has superior insulation. Aluminum is a durable material in harsh climates, and clad wood is a natural-looking wood but resists dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is a great choice for homes with logs or historic homes as well as Craftsman style homes.
The frame material you select will have a significant impact on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technology has reduced air infiltration to almost zero and, when combined with the appropriate glazing they can cut down the cost of cooling and heating by as much as 40%..
Double-hung windows consist of two large sashes which are able to move vertically along tracks. They are anchored by springs, and can be opened and closed. They're a favorite choice for homeowners because they're versatile and can fit many styles of architecture. They are not as energy efficient as other types of windows and their sashes may get corroded or warp over time.
A bay or bow windows is a combination of three or four windows into one unit which provides more light and space to a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be made to order with a variety of shapes and sizes to fit in with any room. Bay and bow windows are a great method of bringing more natural light into dark areas or making an entrance more dramatic.
Sliding doors can be an ideal solution for those who do not want to open their windows. They can be set up in a space between walls or affixed to the wall above an existing door. They are available in a broad range of colors and styles to match your personal style.
In-swing windows require more care since they open inward instead of outward. However, they are an excellent insulator and help prevent air leaks. They are also popular in bathrooms and kitchens because they are easy to clean.
Cutouts
You can select from a wide selection of replacement windows based on the style and needs of your home. These include picture windows, which are stationary and don't open, as well as double-hung, casement, and shaped windows. In the majority of instances, you can put these kinds of windows over windows to drastically alter the appearance of a room without any major changes.
During the process of installation, all original windows' screens, sashes, and the dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame that the new window can slide over. These frames are called "jump frame" because the replacement window will jump over the old to hide it. If the original frame extends a little into the opening, it might be possible to trim some of it off. However, it is essential to not take away the nail fin which is vital to allow air and water infiltration.
You may also want to think about full-frame replacement windows for your home. These windows are used to replace a single
window sash replacement or to add 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 an excellent choice for older homes since they look exactly like the original windows in the home.
Installing full-frame replacement log windows requires that you match the nail fin to the logs surrounding it. This will stop moisture from leaking into. This can be done by using an exclusive caulking product that matches the product being used, or by constructing an 2x box within the frame opening and sealing it to the adjoining logs.
It is essential to employ an experienced installer if you choose to install an alternative window replacements [
clicking here] that has an entire frame. They will have the necessary tools and equipment needed to safely work on ladders and scaffolding. In addition, they will be able to install the window to ensure that it is both energy efficient and structurally sound. 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 exactly as they should.
Energy efficiency
Apart from aesthetics and ease of use energy efficiency is an important factor when choosing replacement windows. Older windows can let warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy bills. Newer replacement windows help regulate temperatures and are insulated, which eases the burden on your HVAC. They let natural sunlight into your home, which reduces the requirement for artificial lighting.
When selecting new windows, look for the ENERGY-STAR label and ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council to determine their energy efficiency. The higher the rating the more efficient the windows are. Energy Star-certified replacement windows have been tested to cut heating and cooling costs by up to 30%, saving you money on utility bills over time.
The energy efficiency of a window is affected by several factors that include the frame and sash material and the insulating properties and the glazing materials.