25 Jun 5 Steps to Choosing Replacement Windows For Your Home
How to choose a replacement window for your home
While replacement windows may look the same, there are big quality and performance differences between different products. Upgrading your home with new windows may or may not result in energy savings, which is why it’s important to select the right product. But how do you know which replacement windows to choose from? Follow these 5 steps to get the windows that are right for you.
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Step 1: Choose a Window Style
Windows impact the look of a home. You want to make sure you select replacement windows that match the exterior of your home. The architecture of your home can provide several clues as to the best replacement window style to use. The idea is to choose windows that will complement your home regardless of its age. For example, colonial-style homes typically have double-hung windows that open and close with two operating sashes. double-hung windows also tilt inward for easy cleaning. These are classic windows that suit colonial homes as well as a variety of other architectures, including ranch homes or Craftsman homes.
Specialty shaped windows or geometric window styles can work with modern homes as well as historic houses. Consider these styles for adding character or flare to your home. Decorative upgrades are another consideration. Homeowners can add a unique aesthetic with decorative glass options and grids. For example, diamond grids look great with Tudor style homes. And decorative glass filters light into the home without sacrificing privacy.
Step 2: Choose a Window Frame Material
The window style is important, but remember that the window will require maintenance. And window maintenance will vary based on the material. Vinyl is perhaps the easiest to maintain. It resists termite damage and will not warp, peel, or rot. Additionally, it requires no sanding, staining, or painting throughout its lifetime. Vinyl frames are also highly customizable. You can select from a variety of colors to coordinate or contrast with your home’s exterior. If you choose wood windows, keep in mind that they require significant upkeep. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time maintaining your new windows, consider vinyl replacement windows.
Step 3: Choose a Window Glass Package
When it comes to saving energy, a glass package is one of the most important components of a window. Windows that are very low cost (and low quality) typically don’t have the necessary technologies to lower your energy bills. It’s important to understand the components that create an energy efficient glass package:
Dual and triple pane glass: Replacement windows typically come in dual or triple pane. Dual-pane is the most common choice. It includes two panes of glass with space in between them. Triple pane glass adds an extra pane of glass and an additional space. Triple pane glass provides increased energy savings and additional sound-blocking capabilities.
Argon gas: Argon is an invisible, odorless gas that is denser than air that can be added to windows to increase their thermal efficiency. In dual and triple hung windows, argon is injected between the panes of glass.
Krypton gas: Kyrpton is ann invisible, odorless gas that is more dense than argon gas. It is injected in dual and triple pane windows and is one of the best choices for creating exceptionally efficient replacement windows.
Low-e glazing: Low-e is an invisible coating applied to panes of glass that is thinner than the width of a human hair. Low-e glazing reduces heat transfer in the home. In the summertime, it reflects sunlight back outside and keeps the inside from heating up. In the winter, it allows sunlight to stream through the glass and naturally helps warm the home.
The combination of these technologies determines the extent to which your replacement windows will save energy. If you install replacement windows without any of these technologies, you won’t experience much in terms of energy savings or increased indoor comfort. For example, UniShield® Supreme is one of the most energy-efficient replacement windows on the market. It is engineered with triple pane glass, krypton gas, and two coats of Low-E.
Step 4: Choose Custom Replacement Windows
While buying windows from a big box store sounds convenient, you’ll get the most bang for your buck by working with a professional window replacement company. Unlike big-box retailers, replacement window companies have access to high-quality manufacturers, who engineer every product one-at-a-time. Additionally, replacement window companies ensure that the custom product has a precise fit. This is critical to efficiency and savings because even the smallest mismeasurement can result in significant energy loss. Mismeasurements are more likely when you choose to install pre-made windows.
Step 5: Work with an Established Window Company
Get a free estimate from reputable replacement window companies. With the help of the Internet, it’s easier than ever to learn about the window company in question. To select a reputable company, read reviews on Facebook, Yelp, Home Advisor, Angie’s List, and more.
Windows For Me is one of the most trusted replacement window companies in The United States. We improve the lives of homeowners with energy efficient products that look great and save homeowners money. Learn how we can help improve your exterior by contacting us today for a quote.