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 help reduce drafts, which lowers costs for energy and also reduce wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.

To find the best replacement windows for your home it is important to first understand your goals, requirements and desires. Asking yourself a few basic questions will help you begin.

Styles

There are a variety of options when it comes to replacing windows. You may be replacing existing double-hung windows at home with uPVC windows, for instance or remodeling a period stone cottage with large glass expanses and slimline aluminium frames. You could be building an addition and need to choose windows that fit your architectural style.

The most popular type of replacement window, the sliding gliding design provides sleek vertical lines and contemporary design that can be customized by incorporating shades between-the-glass or blinds. The gliding design also allows for excellent ventilation and it is easy to clean your windows inside.

Casement windows are another popular choice. 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, depending on the style you prefer. These windows are a great choice for openings that are larger than standard sizes, for example a bay or bow window.

Awning windows, on other hand, are hinged at the top and can be opened as a door. They are ideal for bringing light into a darkened room or for sizing an area. The windows have fixed handles or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing much easier.

Another style that you might select for a particular project is an insert replacement window. These windows are designed to fit inside the opening of the frame and keep the original trim and siding. These windows are particularly effective with homes built in the century and have a specific architectural style.

It is important to note that replacement windows differ from construction windows in terms of the nailing fin and brick mold, therefore it's crucial to understand the distinction between the two types prior to selecting a window for your home. New construction windows are also suitable for new additions or structures with clear openings that do not have existing siding.

If you're thinking about replacing your existing windows, contact a Pella showroom to look into your options and find the ideal replacement windows for your home. Browse our online gallery for inspiration and browse pictures of beautiful replacement windows.

Materials

The frame material you select will affect the appearance and performance of your new windows. You should choose the right material that fits your budget and design goals. You have five options: vinyl, wood, clad-wood, and aluminum.

Each type of frame offers its own distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, while wood offers timeless beauty with superior insulation. Aluminum is a durable material in harsh climates, and clad wood has the look of natural wood but resists dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a good choice for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style houses.

Selecting the right frame material will make a huge difference to the appearance of your home and its energy efficiency. New window technologies reduce air infiltration to a minimum and, when paired with the right glass, can cut your cooling and heating bills by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows are made up of two large sashes that move vertically along tracks. They are balanced by springs and are able to be opened and closed. They are favored by homeowners because of their versatility and ability to fit into a variety of styles of architecture. They are less efficient in energy than other window types and their sashes could be corroded or warp with time.

A bay or bow windows combines three or four windows into one unit that provides more light and space compared to a conventional single-hung or casement window. They can be customized to suit any space. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way of bringing more light into dark spaces, or creating a dramatic entranceway.

Sliding doors are an ideal solution for those who don't want to open their windows. They can be installed in a space between walls or affixed to the wall above an existing door. They are available in a wide range of colors and styles to suit your style.

In-swing windows require more care since they open inward instead of outward, but they are an excellent insulation and can help stop air leaks. They are also popular in kitchens and bathrooms because they are easy to clean.

Cutouts

There are a myriad of styles of replacement windows you can select from according to your home's style and needs. Picture windows cannot be moved and are not open. Other types of replacement window glass windows include double-hung or shaped windows. These types of windows can be put in in most cases to replace existing window openings changing the look of a room without extensive remodelling.

During installation, all the original windows' screens, sashes, and dividing bars will be removed, leaving the frame which the new window will slide over. They are referred to as "jump frames" because the replacement window jumps right over the old one to obscure it from view. Sometimes, if the original frame extends beyond the opening a little, it's possible to trim off a portion of that frame, but it's important not to remove too much of the nail fin, which is crucial for air and water infiltration.

Full-frame replacement windows are another option to think about for your home. They can be used to replace window pane a single window or to install additional windows. The nailing fins made of metal are usually hidden behind drywall after the window has been installed. They are a great option for older homes because they look exactly like the original windows of the home.

When replacing windows with full frames in log homes, ensure that the nail fins are matched with the surrounding logs to stop water from getting into the structure. This can be accomplished by using a caulking system that is specifically designed to match the material being used or by building two-by-four boxes inside the opening that is framed and sealing it to the adjacent logs.

It is crucial to hire an experienced professional installer when you choose to install windows that are replaced with a complete frame. They'll have all the tools and equipment required to work safely from scaffolding and ladders. They will also know how to install the window in a way that it is sturdy and energy efficient. They will also understand the importance of being able to perform a thorough check of the window once it has been put in.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a major aspect to take into account when replacing windows. Older windows can let warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy costs. Newer replacement windows help regulate temperature and are insulated which reduces the strain on your HVAC. They also allow natural light to enter your home, thus reducing the need for artificial lighting.

When choosing new replacement windows, look for the ENERGY STAR label as well as 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 have been confirmed to reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%, thereby saving you money on your utility bills over time.

There are several factors that affect the efficiency of windows including the material used for the frame and sash as well as insulating properties, and glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for example are more energy efficient than vinyl sashes, and wooden frames offer better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows have a higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.

ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows not only help reduce your energy bills but also help to protect the environment by the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality by cutting down on 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 you are replacing windows, they should be easy-to-open, close and clean. Look for sashes with tilt-in, which make it easier to reach hard-to-reach spots. You'll want windows with an alarm and that are secure to lock.

It is crucial to have a quality installation regardless of whether you are replacing windows in an historic construction or upgrading your home. The right replacement windows will help you save on energy bills, increase security and comfort, and increase the curb appeal of your home. Visit a showroom to find out more or explore your options online.