How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are designed to keep cold air out while letting hot air in. They reduce drafts, which helps lower costs for energy and reduce wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner.

However, choosing the right replacement windows for your home requires understanding your goals, wishes and requirements for this particular project. By asking yourself a few basic questions can help you start.

Styles

When it comes time to replace windows, there are a variety of designs to pick from. You might be replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or remodeling a period cottage with large expanses of glass and slimline aluminum frames. You may be building an addition and would like to select windows that complement the architectural style of your home.

The most common type of replacement windows is the sliding gliding style that offers slim vertical lines and a contemporary look that can be customized with between-the-glass blinds or shades. The gliding style also provides excellent ventilation and lets you easily clean your windows from inside your home.

Casement windows are a popular option. They're easy to open from the top or side which allows you to ventilate your home more effectively. These windows can be installed with or without a transom depending on your preference. They're a great choice for openings that are larger than normal windows, like bow or bay windows.

Awning windows, on the other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened like a door. They are ideal for sizing an area with limited space or to add more light to dark rooms. The windows have fixed handles or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing easier.

Insert replacement windows are another design you can select for a specific project. These windows are designed to fit into the frame's opening and protect the original trim and siding. These windows are particularly effective with homes built in the century and have a distinct architectural style.

You should note that replacement windows differ from construction windows with regard to the nailing fin and brick mold, therefore it's important to know the difference between these two types prior to choosing a window to fit your home. Keep in mind that new construction windows can be used on new additions as well as buildings with clear openings without existing trim or siding.

If you're considering replacing your windows, call an Pella showroom to look into your options and select the perfect replacement windows for your home. You can also look through images of inspiring replacement projects on our gallery to get inspired.

Materials

The frame material that you choose will influence the appearance and performance of your replacement windows. It is crucial to select the appropriate materials based on your budget and design goals. There are five options of high-quality to think about: vinyl, aluminum, install fiberglass wood, clad-wood, and wood.

Each type of frame offers distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are cost-effective and easy to maintain, whereas wood has a timeless look and superior insulation. Aluminum is durable in harsh climates, and clad wood is a natural-looking wood, but it is more resistant to dents easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is a great choice for log homes, historic homes and Craftsman style homes.

Selecting the right frame material will have a significant impact on your home's appearance as well as energy efficiency. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to a minimum and, when combined with the appropriate glazing can cut your cooling and heating costs by up to 40%..

Double-hung windows are made up of two sashes that move vertically on tracks and are supported by springs to allow them to open and close. They're a favorite choice for homeowners because they are versatile and can be incorporated into various architectural styles. They are not as energy efficient as other types of windows and their sashes can be corroded or warp with time.

A bay or bow window combines three or more windows into one unit and provides more light and install space than a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be adapted to fit any space. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way to let more natural light into a dark space or add dramatic appeal to an entranceway.

Sliding doors are a great alternative for those looking to let fresh air in without opening windows. They can be erected in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall over an existing door. They can be found in a wide variety of styles and colors to fit your taste.

In-swing windows need more maintenance because they open inwards instead of outward, but they're an excellent insulator and help prevent air leaks. In addition to being simple to clean, they're also a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Cutouts

You can pick from a range of replacement windows, based on the style and requirements of your home. Picture windows cannot be moved and are not open. Other types of replacement windows include double-hung or shaped windows. In most instances, you can put these types of windows in place of windows that are already in place to dramatically transform the look of a room with no major remodeling.

During installation the window's original screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving the frame that the new window will slide over. They are referred to as "jump frames" because the new window slides right over the old one to block it from view. Occasionally, if the original frame extends beyond the opening a little, it's possible to trim off a part of the frame, but it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is crucial for air and water infiltration.

Full-frame replacement windows are an additional alternative to consider for your home. They are usually used when you are replacing windows that are only original, or when you want to install more windows. They come with nailing fins made from metal which are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window is installed. They are a great choice for older homes because they are similar to the original windows that were in the house.

When installing full-frame replacement upvc window handles windows in log homes, you must ensure that the nail fins are matched with the surrounding logs to stop moisture from entering the house. This can be achieved by using the right caulking product for the product or by building an enclosure of 2x4s within the framed opening and sealing it with the logs that are adjacent.

It is important to hire a professional installer if you decide to use windows that are replaced with a complete frame. They will have all the equipment and tools needed to safely work from scaffolding and ladders. They will also know how to install the window correctly so that it is sturdy and energy efficient. They also understand the importance of conducting an in-depth examination of the window following installation, and will make sure that all parts are working as they should be.

Energy efficiency

Apart from aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be the primary consideration when selecting replacement windows. Older windows allow heat and cold to escape, resulting in higher energy bills. Modern replacement windows help to maintain temperature and are insulated which eases the burden on your HVAC. They also let natural sunlight to shine into your home, thus reducing the need for artificial light.

Check for the ENERGY STAR and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when selecting new windows to assess their energy efficiency. The higher the rating is, the more efficient the window. ENERGY STAR certified replacement windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.

The energy efficiency of windows is affected by several factors which include the frame and sash materials as well as the properties of insulation and the glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for example, are more energy-efficient than vinyl sashes, and wood frames provide better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows are more efficient in energy efficiency than sliding windows.

ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows not only help reduce your energy costs, but also help protect the environment through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality by reducing noise pollution. Older windows allow outside noises to be heard in your home, such as traffic, barking dogs, and even loud music. New windows can cut out the noise that can disturb you and allow you to relax and unwind in your personal space.

If your replacement windows are double-hung, casement, or bay and bow windows, they should be easy to open and close, as well as clean. Look for tilt-in sashes, which make it easier to reach those difficult-to-access spots. Windows should also secure and have an alarm for added security.

Quality installation is important regardless of whether you are replacing windows in a historic building or updating your home. The right replacement windows can help you save on energy bills as well as increase comfort and security, and elevate curb appeal. Visit a showroom for more about the options available or research them online.