How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

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

To determine the most suitable windows to replace your home it is important to first understand your goals, requirements and desires. By asking yourself a few basic questions can help you start.

Styles

When it comes time to replace windows, there are many styles to pick from. You may be replacing existing double-hung windows in your home with uPVC windows, for instance, or you could be renovating a stone cottage from the past with huge expanses of glass and slimline aluminium frames. You may be building an addition and want to select windows that fit your architectural style.

The most popular kind of replacement windows is the sliding gliding type which has sleek vertical lines and a contemporary style that can be customised with shades or blinds that are between-the-glass. The gliding style also allows for excellent ventilation and it is easy to clean your windows inside.

Another popular option is casement windows. They are easy to open from either the top or side which allows you to ventilate your home more efficiently. These windows can be set up with or uPVC without transoms, depending on the style you prefer. They're a great choice for openings that are bigger than normal windows, such as bay or bow windows.

Awning Windows are hinged at the top and can be opened like a door. They're ideal for sizing up an area with a limited space or to add more light to a dark room. They come with either a fixed or crank handle for effortless opening and closing.

Another style that you might select for a particular project is an insert replacement window. These windows are designed to fit in the frame's opening and preserve the original trim and siding. These windows are especially effective with homes built in the century and have a distinct architectural style.

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

Contact an Pella showroom today to learn more about your options and discover the perfect replacement windows for your home. Browse our online gallery for inspiration and browse photos of stunning replacement windows.

Materials

The frame material you select will impact the appearance and performance of your replacement windows. It's important to find the right materials based on your design and budget goals. There are five options that include wood, vinyl as well as aluminum.

Each kind of frame has unique advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, while wood has a timeless look and superior insulation. Aluminum is resistant to harsh weather conditions and clad wooden frames appear like natural wood, but are more resistant to scratches than traditional wooden frames. Wood is a great option for homes with logs or historic homes as well as Craftsman style homes.

The frame material you choose will have a major impact on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window pane replacement technology has reduced air infiltration to nearly zero and, when combined with the right glazings, can slash your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows consist of two sashes that are able to move vertically along tracks. They are balanced by springs, and can be closed and opened. They are popular with homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to be incorporated into a variety of architectural styles. The drawback is that they're less energy efficient than other types of windows and their sashes may be damaged or warped over time.

A bow or bay window is a combination of three or more windows into a single unit, and offers more light and space than a typical single-hung or casement window. They can be customized to fit any space. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way of bringing more natural light into dark spaces or making an entrance more dramatic.

Sliding doors are an excellent alternative for those looking to let in fresh air without opening their windows. They can be installed in a gap between walls or attached to the wall above the door. They come in a variety of designs and colors to match your style.

In-swing windows need more maintenance 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 also a popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Cutouts

There are a variety of replacement windows that you can pick from depending on the style of your house and what you require. Picture windows aren't movable and are not open. Other types of replacement windows include double-hung or shaped windows. These types of windows are able to be installed in most cases to replace windows that are already in use changing the look of a room without extensive remodeling.

During the installation, all of the original window screens, sashes and dividing bars will be removed, leaving the frame which the new window can slide over. These frames are called "jump frame" because the new window will be able to jump over the old one to obscure it. Sometimes, if the original frame extends beyond the opening in a small way, it's possible to trim off a part of the frame, but it's important not to remove too much of the nail fin which is crucial to 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. They have metal nailing fins which are usually hidden behind the drywall when the window is put in. They are an excellent choice for older homes since they look exactly like the original windows in the house.

When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is in line with the surrounding logs to stop water from getting into the structure. This can be done by using an exclusive caulking product that matches the material being used or by building two-by-four boxes inside the opening that is framed and sealing it to the adjoining logs.

If you choose to use a full-frame replacement window it is crucial to employ a professional installer. They'll have the tools and equipment to safely work on ladders and scaffolding. They will also know how to install the window properly to ensure that it is solid and energy efficient. They will also understand the importance of being able to perform a thorough check of the window once it has been installed.

Energy efficiency

Aside from aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be a major consideration when choosing replacement windows. Older windows let heat and cold to escape, resulting in higher the cost of energy. Modern replacement windows help maintain temperatures and are insulated, which eases the burden on your HVAC. They let natural light into your home, which reduces the need for artificial lighting.

Be sure to look for the ENERGY START and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when choosing new replacement windows to determine their energy efficiency. The higher the rating the more efficient the window. Energy Star-certified replacement windows have been proven to reduce heating and cooling expenses by up to 30%, saving you money on your utility bills over time.

The energy efficiency of a window is affected by several factors that include the frame and sash materials, the insulating properties, and the glazing materials. For instance, sashes made of wood are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wood frames offer better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows are more efficient in energy 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 as they reduce noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds like traffic, barking dog, and loud music enter your home. New windows can cut out unwanted noise which allows you to unwind and unwind in your private space.

If your replacement windows are double-hung, casement, or bay and bow windows, they should be easy to open and close, and also clean. Look for tilt-in sashes, which allow you to reach those difficult-to-access spots. Windows should also are secured and have an alarm for additional security.

Quality installation is important, whether you are replacing windows in an historic construction or upgrading your home. The best replacement windows will help you save on energy bills while also increasing security and comfort, and improve curb appeal. To learn more go to a showroom or explore the options online.