How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed for keeping cold air out and warm air in. They reduce drafts which lowers energy bills and reduces wear and wear on your air conditioner and furnace.
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 basic questions.
Styles
When it comes to replacing windows, there are many styles to choose from. You could be replacing double-hung windows in your home with uPVC ones, for
installed example, or you could be renovating your period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass and sleek aluminium frames. Or perhaps you're in the process of building a new home and are looking for windows that fit with the architectural style you have chosen.
The most common kind of replacement windows is the sliding gliding style, which offers slim vertical lines and a modern style that can be customised with between-the-glass blinds or shades. The gliding design also offers excellent ventilation and lets you easily clean your windows from inside the house.
Casement windows are another popular option. They can be opened from either side or the top which makes it easier to ventilate your home. These windows can be installed with or without transoms, according to your preference. They're a great option for openings that are bigger than typical window sizes, such as bay or bow windows.
Awning windows, on other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened as a door. They're great for sizing up an area that is small or for adding more light to a dark room. These windows come with a fixed handle or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing much easier.
Insert
replacement window glass windows are another design you can select for a specific project. These windows fit into the frame opening, and help keep the original trim, siding, and frame. These windows are especially effective with century-old homes that have a particular architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It's important to understand the differences between the two types prior to deciding on a window for you home. Keep in mind that new construction windows can be installed on new additions as well as buildings with clear openings, but without existing trim or siding.
If you're thinking of replacing your existing windows, contact a Pella showroom to look into your options and select the ideal
replacement double glazed windows windows for your home. You can also browse through photos of stunning replacement projects in our online gallery to be inspired.
Materials
The frame material you select will affect the appearance and performance of your new windows. It is important to select the best material for your budget and design goals. There are five options of high-quality to consider: vinyl fiberglass, aluminum wood, clad-wood and clad-wood.
Each frame type has its own unique advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, while wood offers timeless beauty with superior insulation. Aluminum is strong and durable in harsh conditions, and clad wood is a natural-looking wood, but is able to withstand dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is a fantastic choice for log homes or historic homes as well as Craftsman style houses.
The frame material you select will have a significant effect on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technology reduces air infiltration to nearly zero and, when paired with the right glazing can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 40%.
Double-hung windows are made up of two large sashes that are able to move vertically along tracks. They are supported by springs and can be opened and closed. They are favored by homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to be incorporated into a variety of architectural styles. They are less efficient in energy than other window types and their sashes can be corroded or warp with time.
A bay or bow window is a combination of three or more windows into one unit, and offers more light and space than a typical single-hung or casement window. They can be made to order in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any room. Bay and bow windows are a great way of bringing more natural light into dark areas or adding drama to an entryway.
Sliding doors are a great option for those looking to let in fresh air without opening windows. They can be installed in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall over an existing door. They are available in a wide variety of styles and colors to fit your taste.
In-swing windows require more maintenance because they open inward instead of outward, but they're a great insulator and help prevent air leaks. In addition to being simple to clean, they're a popular option for bathrooms and kitchens.
Cutouts
You can select from a range of replacement windows, based on the style and specifications of your house. Picture windows aren't movable and are not open. Other kinds of replacement windows include double-hung or shaped windows. These types of windows can be installed in most cases to replace existing window openings and transform the appearance of a room without major renovation.
When the window is installed the window's original screen and sashes as well as the dividing bars are removed, leaving the frame which the new window will slide over. The industry calls these "jump frames" because the replacement window slides right over the old one to hide it from view. Sometimes, if the initial frame extends into the opening it is possible to cut off a part of the frame, however it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is vital to air and water infiltration.
Full-frame replacement windows are another alternative to consider for your home. These are often used to replace windows that are only original, 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. This makes them an excellent choice for older homes because they look similar to the original windows installed in the house when they were constructed.
The installation of full-frame replacement log windows requires that you match the nail fin to the surrounding logs. This will prevent the water from getting in. This can be accomplished by using a special caulking that matches the product being used, or by constructing two-by-four boxes inside the opening that is framed and sealing it to the adjoining logs.
If you decide to install a replacement window with a full frame, it's important that you employ a professional installer. They will have the necessary tools and equipment needed to work safely on scaffolding and ladders. Additionally, they'll know how to properly install the window so that it is energy efficient and structurally sound. They will also know how crucial it is to perform a thorough check of the window after it has been installed.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when replacing windows. Older windows allow warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy bills. Modern replacement windows help to control temperature and are insulated which eases the burden on your HVAC. They let natural sunlight into your home, which reduces the requirement for artificial lighting.
Be sure to look for the ENERGY START and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when selecting new windows to determine their energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the window. ENERGY STAR certified replacement windows can cut heating and cooling bills by up to 30%.