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How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed to keeping cold air out and warm in. They help reduce drafts, which reduces costs for energy and reduce wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner.
But finding the right replacement windows for your home will require understanding your goals, wishes and requirements for this project. You can get started by asking yourself a few easy questions.
Styles
There are a lot of options available when it comes to replacing windows. It could be that you are replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or renovating a period cottage with large expanses glass and aluminum frames that are slimline. You could be building an addition and want to select windows that complement the architectural style of your home.
The most sought-after kind of replacement windows, the sliding gliding design, offers slim vertical lines with contemporary design that can be customized by adding shades between the glass window replacement or blinds. The gliding design also allows for excellent ventilation, and you can easily clean your windows inside.
Another option that is popular is casement windows. They are easy to open from either the top or side and help you air your home more effectively. They can be fitted with transoms or without, depending on what you prefer. These windows are a great choice for openings larger than standard sizes, for example a bay or bow window.
Awning windows, on the other hand, are hinged at the top and can be opened just like a door. They're ideal for sizing up an area with limited space or for adding more lighting to a dark space. They come with either a fixed or crank handle for effortless opening and closing.
Insert replacement windows are a different type you could choose for a particular project. These windows are designed to fit inside the frame's opening and protect the original trim and siding. These windows work best for homes built in the past century that have a specific architectural style.
It is important to note that replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the nailing fin and brick mold, therefore it's crucial to understand the distinction between these two types before selecting a window for your home. Keep in mind that new construction windows can be put in on new additions and structures with clear openings that do not have existing siding or trim.
If you're thinking about replacing your existing windows, visit an Pella showroom to discuss your options and choose the perfect replacement windows for your home. Check out our online gallery of ideas and browse pictures of beautiful replacement windows.
Materials
The frame material you select for your replacement windows will affect how the window appears and performs. It's important to find the appropriate materials based on your budget and design preferences. There are five options that include wood, vinyl, clad-wood, and aluminum.
Each kind of frame has its own unique benefits. Vinyl is easy to maintain and cost-effective and wood is an elegant appearance that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is resistant to harsh weather conditions and clad wooden frames look like natural wood, however they are more resistant to dents than traditional wooden frames. Wood is an excellent option for log homes as well as historic homes and Craftsman style houses.
The frame material you select will have a significant impact on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technology reduces air infiltration to nearly zero and, when paired with the right glass can reduce heating and cooling bills by as much as 40%..
Double-hung windows consist of two sashes that are able to move vertically along tracks. They are anchored by springs and are able to be shut and opened. They are a popular option for homeowners as they offer versatility and fit many architectural styles. The downside is that they're not as energy efficient as other types of windows, and their sashes can become brittle or corrode as time passes.
A bay or bow windows is a combination of three or four windows into one that provides more light and space to a conventional single-hung or casement window. They can be adapted to fit any space. Bay and bow windows are a great method of bringing more light into dark spaces, or adding drama to an entryway.
Sliding doors are an ideal solution for those who don't want to open their windows. They can be set up in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall above an existing door. They are available in a broad selection of styles and colors to fit your taste.
In-swinging windows require more upkeep since they open inwards instead of outwards. They also aid in preventing air leaks and are excellent insulators. They are also popular in bathrooms and kitchens because they are easy to clean.
Cutouts
There are many different types of replacement windows that you can select from according to the style of your house and what you require. Picture windows cannot be moved and are not opened. Other types of replacement windows include double-hung or shaped windows. In most instances, you can put these kinds of windows over existing window openings to dramatically change a room's appearance without significant changes.
During the process of installation, all original window screens, sashes and dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame which the new window will slide over. These frames are referred to as "jump frame" because the new window will slide over the old to hide it. Sometimes, if the initial frame extends beyond the opening it is possible to cut off a small portion of the frame, however it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is crucial to air and water infiltration.
Full-frame replacement windows are a different option to think about for your home. They are usually used to replace one window or when you want to install more windows. They have metal nailing fins, which are typically hidden behind the drywall when the window is installed. They are a great option for older homes because they look just like the original windows that were in the house.
When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, it is important to ensure that the nail fins are matched with the surrounding logs in order to stop water from getting into the structure. This can be accomplished using the right caulking product for the product or by constructing an enclosure of 2x4s within the framed opening, and sealing it against the logs that are adjacent.
It is important to hire an experienced installer if you decide to use windows that are replaced with a full frame. They will have the necessary tools and equipment to work safely on scaffolding and ladders. They will be able to install the window properly to ensure that it is solid and energy efficient. They are also aware of the importance of conducting an in-depth inspection of the window after installation, and will make sure that all components function as they should be.
Energy efficiency
Aside from aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be the primary consideration when selecting replacement windows. Older windows may let cold and heat escape, increasing your energy bills. Newer replacement windows help maintain temperature and are insulated, which reduces the strain on your HVAC. They also allow natural light to enter your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
When you are choosing replacement window panels windows, 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 window. ENERGY STAR-certified replacement windows are confirmed to reduce heating and cooling expenses by as much as 30%, thereby saving you money on your utility bills over time.
The energy efficiency of a window replacements is influenced by many factors, including the sash and frame materials, the insulating properties, and the glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for instance are more energy efficient than vinyl sashes, and wood frames are more insulating than aluminum. Double-hung windows are more efficient in energy than sliding windows.
In addition to reducing your energy bills, ENERGY STAR-certified replacement glass for a window Windows can help protect the environment by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve the indoor air quality because they cut down on noise pollution. Older windows allow outside sounds such as traffic, barking dogs and loud music in your home. New replacement windows reduce the noise that can disturb you, allowing you to relax and unwind in your own space.
No matter if your replacement windows are double-hung, casement or bay and bow windows, they should be easy to open and close, and also clean. Consider tilt-in sashes which make it easier to access difficult-to-reach areas. You'll also want windows that are secured and come with an alarm for additional security.
It is crucial to have a quality installation when replacing windows in an old construction or upgrading your home. The right replacement windows will help you save on energy bills while also increasing comfort and security, and elevate the curb appeal of your home. For more information visit a showroom, or explore the options online.