How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are made for keeping cold air out and warm in. They help reduce drafts, which helps lower energy bills and cuts wear and wear on your furnace as well as air conditioner.
To find the best replacement windows for your house, you must first know your goals, requirements and desires. 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 may be replacing existing double-hung windows in your house with uPVC ones, for example or remodeling a period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass and slimline aluminium frames. You could be building an addition and would like to select windows that complement the architectural style of your home.
The most popular type of replacement window is the sliding gliding type that offers sleek vertical lines and a modern look that can be customized with shades or blinds that are between-the-glass. The gliding design also offers great ventilation and lets you easily clean your windows from inside your home.
Casement windows are another popular choice. They can be opened from the side or top making it easier to let air into your home. These windows can be set up with or without a transom depending on the style you prefer. They're a great choice for openings that are more than typical windows, such as bow or
casement bay windows.
Awning windows on the other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened as a door. They are ideal for sizing an area that is small or for adding light to dark rooms. They come with either a crank or fixed handle for easy opening and closing.
Insert replacement windows are a different type you could 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 efficient for homes with a particular 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 prior to choosing windows for your home. New construction windows are suitable for new additions or structures with clear openings that do not have siding in place.
Contact an Pella showroom today to find out more about your options and discover the perfect replacement windows for you home. You can also look through images of amazing replacement projects on our gallery to be inspired.
Materials
The frame material that you select will affect the appearance and performance of your new windows. You must select the appropriate material to fit your budget and design goals. There are five options of high-quality to think about: vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass wood, clad-wood, and wood.
Each type of frame offers distinct advantages. Vinyl is affordable and easy to maintain, while wood has an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is a durable material in harsh climates, and clad lumber has the appearance of natural wood, but is able to withstand dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a great choice for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style houses.
The frame material you choose will have a major impact on the appearance and energy efficiency of your home. New
window sash replacement technology has reduced air infiltration to almost zero and, when combined with the right glazings can cut the cost of cooling and heating by up to 40%.
Double-hung windows are made up of two sashes that move vertically on tracks. They are balanced by springs, allowing them to open and close. They're a popular choice for homeowners because they offer versatility and fit various architectural styles. They are not as energy efficient as other types of windows and their sashes can get corroded or warp over time.
A bow or bay window combines three or more windows into one unit and provides more light and space than a standard single-hung or
casement window. They can be made to order with a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any room. Bay and bow windows are a great way of bringing more light into dark spaces, or creating a dramatic entranceway.
Sliding doors are an excellent option for those who want to let fresh air in without opening their windows. They can be installed in a gap between walls or attached to the wall over an existing door. They are available in a wide variety of styles and colors to match your personal style.
In-swing windows require more maintenance because they open inward instead of outward, but they're a great insulator and help prevent air leaks. They are also popular in bathrooms and kitchens because they are easy to clean.
Cutouts
There are a variety of replacement windows that you can choose from, based on the style of your home and its requirements. These include picture windows, which are stationary and do not open, as well as double-hung, casement, and shaped windows. In the majority of cases, you can install these kinds of windows over windows to drastically change a room's appearance without major remodeling.
During the installation,
casement all of the original windows' screens, sashes, and the dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame that the new window will slide over. They are referred to as "jump frames" because the replacement window slides right over the previous one to block it from view. If the frame's original extends a bit into the opening, it might be possible to trim the excess. However, it is important to not remove the nail fin, which is essential for air and water infiltration.
You might also want to consider full-frame replacement windows for your home. They are usually employed when replacing windows that are only original, or if you wish to add additional windows. The nailing fins made of steel are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window has been installed. They are a great choice for older homes as they are similar to the original windows of the house.
Installing full-frame replacement windows for logs requires matching the nail fin to the surrounding logs. This will stop moisture from seeping in. This can be accomplished by using a caulking product that matches the product or by constructing an enclosure of 2x4s within the opening that is framed and sealing it against the logs that are adjacent.
If you decide to install a replacement window with a full frame it is essential to employ an experienced installer. They'll have all the tools and equipment required to work safely from scaffolding and ladders. They will be able to install the window in a way that it is both sturdy and energy efficient. They also know the importance of completing an in-depth inspection of the window after installation, and will make sure that all parts are working in the way they should.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is a key aspect to take into account when replacing windows. Older windows allow cold and heat escape, which can increase your energy costs. Newer replacement windows are insulated and help regulate temperatures, reducing the load on your HVAC system. They also let natural sunlight to penetrate your home, which reduces the need for artificial light.
When choosing new replacement 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 can cut heating and cooling bills by as much as 30%..
There are a variety of factors that affect a window's energy efficiency including the material used for the frame and sash insulation properties, frame and sash material, as well as glazing materials.