How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are designed to keep cold air out and warm air in. They help reduce drafts, which can help lower the cost of energy and also reduce wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner.

To choose the best windows to replace your home it is important to first understand your goals, requirements and desires. Asking yourself a few basic questions can help you get started.

Styles

When it comes to replacement windows, there are plenty of styles to pick from. You could be replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or renovating an old-fashioned cottage with huge expanses glass and slimline aluminum frames. You may be building an addition and you need to choose windows that match the style of your building.

The most well-known type of replacement window The sliding gliding style, offers sleek vertical lines and modern design that can be personalized by adding shades between the glass or blinds. The gliding style also provides great ventilation and lets you clean your windows from inside the house.

Another popular option is casement windows. They can be opened from the side or top which makes it easier to let air into your home. These windows can be set up with or without transoms, according to your preference. These windows are ideal for openings larger than standard sizes, for example a bow or bay windows.

Awning windows on the other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened as doors. They're ideal for sizing up an area with a limited space or for adding light to a dark room. These windows come with fixed handles or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing easier.

Another option you can choose for a specific project is an insert replacement window. These windows fit inside the frame opening and help preserve the original trim, siding, and frame. These windows work best with century-old homes that have a distinct architectural style.

Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in regards to the brick mold and nailing fin. It is important to know the differences between these two types prior to deciding on windows for your home. Also, remember that new construction windows can be used on new additions as well as buildings with clear openings without any trim or siding.

If you're thinking about replacing your existing windows, contact an Pella showroom to discuss your options and find the ideal replacement windows for your home. You can also browse through photos of inspiring replacement projects on our gallery to get 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. You have five options including wood, vinyl, clad-wood, and aluminum.

Each frame type has its own distinct advantages. Vinyl is easy to maintain and cost-effective and wood is an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is durable in harsh climates, and clad wood has the look of natural wood, but it is more resistant to dents easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a good option for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style houses.

The material you choose for your frame will have a significant effect on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to a minimum and, when coupled with the appropriate glazing, can slash the cost of cooling and heating by up to 40%..

Double-hung windows are made up of two sashes that move vertically on tracks and are supported by springs, allowing them to open and close. They're a popular choice for homeowners because they are versatile and can be incorporated into many styles of architecture. However, they're less energy efficient than other types of windows, and their sashes can warp or corrode in 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 standard single-hung or casement window. They can be customized to fit any space. 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 set up in a space between walls or attached to the wall over an existing door. They are available in a range of styles and colors to complement your style.

In-swing windows require more care because they open inwards instead of outward, but they're a great insulation, and they can also help to prevent air leaks. In addition to being simple to clean, they're an extremely popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Cutouts

There are a variety of replacement windows you can pick from according to the style of your home and its requirements. Picture windows are not movable and cannot be open. Other types of replacement windows are double-hung, shaped, and casement windows. These types of windows can be installed usually to replace windows that are already in use and transform the appearance of a room with no major remodeling.

When the window is installed the window's screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving a frame which the new window will slide right over. They are referred to as "jump frames," because the replacement window slides right over the previous one to obscure it from view. If the original frame extends a little into the opening, it might be possible to trim some of it off. However, it's important to not remove too much nail fins, which are essential to allow air and water infiltration.

Full-frame replacement windows are another option to consider for your home. They can be used to replace windows or to add additional windows. The nailing fins made of steel are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window has been installed. This makes them an excellent option for older homes, as they look like the original windows in the house when they were constructed.

When replacing windows with full frames in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is matched with the surrounding logs to keep moisture from seeping into the house. This can be accomplished by using the right caulking product for the product or by building a box of 2x4s inside the framed opening and sealing it against the adjacent logs.

If you decide to install windows that are full frame replacement it is essential to employ a professional installer. They will have the necessary tools and sash equipment to safely work on ladders and scaffolding. Additionally, they will know how to properly install the window to ensure that it is both energy efficient and structurally sound. They will also be aware of how important it is to perform a thorough check of the window after it has been put in.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a major aspect to take into account when replacing windows. Older windows allow heat and cold to escape, resulting in higher the cost of energy. Modern replacement windows are insulated, and help control temperatures, which reduces the strain on your HVAC system. They also allow natural sunlight to enter your home, reducing 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 assess their energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the windows are. ENERGY STAR certified replacement windows can cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 30%..

There are several factors that contribute to a window's energy efficiency such as frame and sash material insulation properties, frame and sash window replacement material, as well as glazing materials. For example, wood sashes are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wooden frames are more insulating than aluminum. Double-hung windows offer higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.

In addition to lowering your energy bills, ENERGY STAR-certified replacement Windows help protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality by decreasing noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds to creep into your home, including traffic, barking dogs and loud music. Replacement windows can cut out the unwanted sound, giving you the freedom to relax in your own private space.

If you are replacing windows windows should be easy to open, close and clean. Look for tilt-in sashes, which allow you to access difficult-to-reach areas. Also, windows should lock securely and have an alarm for additional security.

Whether you're replacing windows in an older building or updating your home, a top-quality installation is essential. The best replacement windows can cut down on energy costs, increase security and comfort, as well as increase curb appeal. To find out more visit a showroom, or browse through the options on the internet.