How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed to keeping cold air out and warm in. They eliminate drafts, which reduces the cost of energy and also reduces wear and wear on your air conditioner and furnace.
To determine the most suitable replacement windows for your home first, you need to know your goals, needs and wants. By asking yourself a few basic questions can help you start.
Styles
When it comes to replacing windows, there are a variety of designs to pick from. You might be replacing double-hung windows in your home with uPVC windows, for instance or remodeling a period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass and slimline aluminium frames. You may be building an addition and want to select windows that fit your architectural style.
The most common kind of replacement window is the sliding gliding style, which offers sleek vertical lines and a contemporary appearance that can be personalized by using shades or blinds between the glass. The gliding design also allows for excellent ventilation, and you can easily clean your windows inside.
Casement windows are a popular option. They can be opened from the side or top making it easier to let air into your home. These windows can be installed with or without transoms, depending on your preference. These windows are ideal for openings larger than standard sizes, like bay or bow window.
Awning windows are hinged on top and can be opened to act as doors. They are ideal for adding light to an otherwise dark space or to increase the size of an area. These windows come with a fixed handle or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing a breeze.
Another option you can choose for a specific project is an insert replacement window. These windows fit into the frame opening and preserve the original trim, siding, and frame. These windows are especially efficient for homes with a specific architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It is important to know 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 don't have siding.
Contact a Pella showroom today to find out more about your options and discover the perfect replacement windows for your home. Explore our online gallery for inspiration and browse pictures of beautiful replacements.
Materials
The frame material that you choose will influence the appearance and performance of your
replacement window seals windows. It's important to find the appropriate materials based on your budget and design preferences. There are five top-quality options to consider: vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum wood, clad-wood and clad-wood.
Each type of frame offers its own distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, whereas wood has a timeless look and superior insulation. Aluminum is abrasive to harsh climates and clad wooden frames look like natural wood,
replacement windows but are more resistant to dents than traditional wooden frames. Wood is a great option for homes with logs, historic homes and Craftsman style homes.
The right frame material will make a big difference in your home's appearance as well as energy efficiency. New window technology has reduced air infiltration to a minimum and, when paired with the right glazings, can slash your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%..
Double-hung windows are comprised of two sashes that move vertically on tracks. They are anchored by springs and can be closed and opened. They're a popular option for homeowners as they're versatile and can fit various architectural styles. They are less efficient in energy than other window types, and their sashes could be corroded or warp with time.
A bow or bay window is a combination of three or more windows into one unit and provides more light and space than a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be customized to suit any space. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way to bring more natural light into dark spaces or making an entrance more dramatic.
Sliding doors are a great option for those who want to let in fresh air without opening their existing windows. They can be hung between walls or placed on the wall above a door. They are available in a variety of styles and colors to suit your style.
In-swinging windows require more maintenance since they open inwards instead of outwards. However, they do help prevent air leaks and are excellent insulators. They are also popular in kitchens and bathrooms because they are easy to clean.
Cutouts
There are a myriad of styles of replacement windows that you can choose from depending on the style of your house and what you require. These include picture windows which are stationary and don't open and double-hung or casement windows. These kinds of windows can be put in in most cases to replace existing window openings changing the look of a room with no major renovation.
When the window is installed the window's screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving a frame that the new window will slide right over. These frames are referred to as "jump frame" because the new window will slide over the old one to obscure it. Sometimes, if the initial frame extends beyond the opening, it's possible to trim off a portion of that frame, but it's essential not to remove too much of the nail fin which is vital for air and water infiltration.
Full-frame replacement windows are a different option that you may want to think about for your home. They are usually used to replace one window or if you are looking to add more windows. The nailing fins made of steel are usually hidden behind the drywall after the window has been installed. They are a great option for older homes because they look just like the original windows of the home.
When replacing windows with full frames in log homes, ensure that the nail fins are matched with the logs surrounding it to stop water from getting into the structure. This can be accomplished by using a special caulking that matches the material being used or by constructing an 2x box within the opening that is framed and sealing it to the abutting logs.
If you opt to use a replacement window with a full frame it is crucial to employ a professional installer. They'll have the tools and equipment needed to safely work on scaffolding and ladders. They will also know how to install the window correctly so that it is both sturdy and energy efficient. They also know the importance of conducting an in-depth examination of the window following installation, and will make sure that all components are functioning in the way they should.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is a key factor to consider when replacing windows. Older windows allow cold and heat escape, which can increase your energy bills. Modern
replacement double glazed window windows help maintain temperature and are insulated, which reduces the strain on your HVAC. They also let natural sunlight to shine into your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Be sure to look for the ENERGY START and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when choosing new replacement windows to determine their energy efficiency. The higher the rating the more efficient the windows are. Windows that are ENERGY STAR certified have been confirmed to reduce heating and cooling expenses by as much as 30%, saving you money on utility bills over time.
The energy efficiency of a window is influenced by many factors that include the frame and sash materials as well as the properties of insulation and the glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for instance are more energy efficient than vinyl sashes, and wooden frames offer better insulation than aluminium.