How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

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

However, choosing the right replacement windows for your home is knowing your goals, wants and requirements for this particular project. Start by asking yourself a few simple questions.

Styles

There are many options when it comes to replacing windows. You may be replacing existing double-hung windows at home with uPVC windows, for instance or renovating your period stone cottage with large glass expanses and sleek aluminium frames. You may be building an addition and you need to choose windows that match the architectural style of your home.

The most sought-after style of replacement windows the sliding gliding model, offers sleek vertical lines and contemporary design that can be customized by adding shades between the glass or blinds. The gliding style also allows for great ventilation and allows you to easily clean your windows inside.

Another popular option is casement windows. They are easy to open from either the side or the top, which helps you ventilate your home more efficiently. They can be put up with or without a transom according to your preference. These windows are ideal for openings that are larger than standard sizes, for example a bay or bow window.

Awning windows, on other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened like a door. They are ideal for adding light to an otherwise dark space or to increase the size of an area. The windows come with either a crank or fixed handle for effortless opening and closing.

Insert replacement upvc window handles windows are a different design you can choose for a particular project. These windows fit inside the frame opening, and help preserve the original trim, siding and frame. These windows are particularly effective with homes built in the century and have a distinct architectural style.

Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It is important to know the differences between these two types prior to choosing windows for your home. New construction windows are suitable for new additions or structures with clear openings that do not have siding in place.

Contact an Pella showroom today to learn more about your options and find the ideal replacement windows for you home. You can also browse through photos of inspiring replacement projects on our gallery to be inspired.

Materials

The frame material that you select will affect the appearance and performance of your new windows. It's important to find the best materials that meet your design and budget goals. There are five options: vinyl, wood aluminum, clad-wood, and clad-wood.

Each type of frame comes with distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are cost-effective and easy to maintain, whereas wood is timeless and has superior insulation. Aluminum is durable in harsh climates, and clad lumber is a natural-looking wood, but is able to withstand dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a good option for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style homes.

The material you choose for your frame will have a significant effect on the appearance and energy efficiency of your home. New window technologies cut air infiltration to nearly zero, and when combined with the right glass can reduce your heating and cooling bills by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows are comprised of two large sashes that move vertically along tracks. They are supported by springs and are able to be shut and opened. They are popular with homeowners due to of their versatility and ability to fit into various architectural styles. They are less efficient in energy than other window types, and their sashes may be corroded or warp with time.

A bow or bay window combines three or more windows into a single unit, and offers more light and space than a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be made to order in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit any room. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way of bringing more light into dark spaces, or adding drama to an entryway.

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

In-swinging windows require more upkeep since they open inwards instead of outwards, but they also help prevent air leaks and are effective insulators. They are also well-liked in kitchens and bathrooms because they are easy to clean.

Cutouts

There are a myriad of styles of replacement windows you can select from depending on your home's style and needs. They include picture windows, which are stationary and do not open and are double-hung, casement, and shaped windows. In the majority of instances, you can put these types of windows in place of existing window openings to dramatically transform the look of a room with no any major changes.

During installation, all the original window screens, sashes and the dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame which the new window can slide over. The industry refers to these frames as "jump frames," because the replacement window slides right over the old one to hide it from view. Occasionally, if the original frame extends beyond the opening, it's possible to trim off a small portion of the frame, but it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is vital for air and water infiltration.

You might also want to look into full-frame replacement windows for your home. These are often used when you are replacing windows that are only original, or if you wish to add additional windows. They come with nailing fins made from metal that are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window is being installed. They are a great option for older homes because they are similar to the original windows of the house.

When replacing windows with full frames in log homes, you must ensure that the nail fins are matched with the surrounding logs to stop water from getting into the house. This can be accomplished by using an exclusive caulking product that matches the product being used, or by building an 2x box within the opening that is framed and sealing it to the adjacent logs.

If you opt to use windows that are full frame replacement it is essential to hire a professional installer. They will have the necessary tools and equipment needed to work safely on ladders and scaffolding. In addition, they will know how to properly install the window so that it is both energy efficient and structurally sound. They are also aware of the importance of completing an in-depth examination of the window following installation and will ensure that all parts are working exactly as they should.

Energy efficiency

In addition to aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be an important factor Replacement Windows when choosing replacement windows. Older windows allow warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy bills. Newer replacement windows help control temperature and are insulated which eases the burden on your HVAC. They also allow natural sunlight to shine into your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

When selecting new windows, be sure to 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 window. Energy STAR certified replacement windows can cut heating and cooling bills by up to 30%.

The energy efficiency of a window pane replacement is influenced by many factors which include the frame and sash material as well as the properties of insulation and the glazing materials. For example, wood sashes are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wood frames are more insulating than aluminum. Double-hung windows are more energy efficient than sliding windows.

In addition to reducing your energy bills The ENERGY-STAR-certified replacement Windows help protect the environment by cutting greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality because they reduce noise pollution. Older windows allow outside noises to be heard in your home, like traffic, barking dogs, and loud music. New replacement windows reduce the unwanted sound, giving you to unwind in your own space.

Whether your replacement windows are double-hung, casement, or bow and bay, they should be easy to open and close, as well as clean. Consider tilt-in windows that allow you to access difficult-to-reach areas. You'll want windows with alarms and locks that lock securely.

A quality installation is essential when replacing windows in an historic building or updating your home. The best replacement windows will help you save on energy bills as well as increase security and comfort, as well as improve the curb appeal of your home. Visit a showroom for more about the options available or research them online.