7 Things You Never Knew About Replacement Windows

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

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

However, choosing the right replacement windows for your home will require knowing your goals, wants and needs for this project. Start by asking yourself a few basic questions.

Styles

There are a lot of options available when replacing windows. You could be replacing double-hung windows at home with uPVC ones, for example, or you could be remodeling a period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass and sleek aluminium frames. Or perhaps you're in the process of building a new home and would like to select windows that fit with your architectural style.

The most commonly used style of replacement window replacement near me is the sliding gliding style, which offers slim vertical lines and a contemporary style that can be customised with shades or blinds that are between-the-glass. The gliding design also allows for great ventilation and it is easy to clean your windows inside.

Another option that is popular is casement windows. They're easy to open from either the side or the top and help you air your home more efficiently. These windows can either be fitted with a transom or without one based on what you prefer. These windows are a great choice for openings larger than standard sizes, like bow or bay windows.

Awning Windows are hinged on top and can be opened to act as doors. They are ideal to add light to a darkened room or for sizing an area. The windows come with either a crank or replacement windows fixed handle for effortless opening and closing.

Another design you could choose for a specific project is an insert replacement window. These windows fit into the frame opening and preserve the original trim, siding and frame. These windows are especially efficient for homes with a specific architectural style.

Replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It's important to understand the differences between these two types prior to choosing a window for you home. Also, keep in mind that new construction windows can be used on new additions or buildings with clear openings, but without existing trim or siding.

If you're thinking of replacing your windows, contact an Pella showroom to look into your options and select the ideal replacement windows for your home. Browse our online gallery for ideas and browse pictures of inspiring replacement windows.

Materials

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

Each type of frame has distinct advantages. Vinyl is easy to maintain and cost-effective and wood is an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is abrasive to harsh climates and clad wooden frames appear like natural wood, however they are more resistant to scratches 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 efficiency of your home. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to almost zero and, when combined with the right glazings can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows consist of two sashes that move vertically along tracks. They are supported by springs, and can be opened and closed. They are favored by homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to fit into various architectural styles. The downside is that they're not as energy efficient as other window types, and their sashes can become brittle or corrode over time.

A bay or bow window glass replacement 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 the perfect opportunity to bring more natural light into a dark space or add the drama of an entranceway.

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

In-swinging windows need more attention because they open inwards rather than outwards. They also aid in preventing air leaks and are effective insulators. In addition to being easy to clean, they're an extremely popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Cutouts

You can choose from a wide selection of replacement windows depending on the style and needs of your house. They include picture windows, that are stationary and do not open and double-hung or casement windows. In most cases, you can install these types of windows over windows to drastically change a room's appearance without major remodeling.

During installation the window's original screen and sashes as well as the dividing bars are removed, leaving the frame which the new window will slide over. These frames are known as "jump frame" because the new window will jump over the old to hide it. If the original frame extends a little into the opening, it may be possible to trim some of it off. However, it's crucial to not cut off too much of nail fin which is vital for air and water infiltration.

You may also want look into full-frame replacement windows for your home. These are used to replace windows or to install additional windows. They have metal nailing fins which are usually hidden behind the drywall when the window is being installed. They are a great choice for older homes as they look exactly like the original windows of the home.

When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, it is important to ensure that the nail fin is in line with the surrounding logs to stop moisture from entering the structure. This can be accomplished by using a special caulking that matches the material being used or by building a 2x box inside of the opening that is framed and sealing it to the adjacent logs.

If you decide to install windows that are full frame replacement, it's important that you choose a professional installer. They'll have all the equipment and tools needed to work safely from scaffolding and ladders. Additionally, they'll be able to install the window so that it is both energy efficient and structurally sound. They are also aware of the importance of completing a thorough examination of the window following installation and will ensure that all components are functioning exactly as they should.

Energy efficiency

In addition to aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be a major consideration when choosing replacement windows. Older windows can let warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy costs. Newer replacement windows are insulated, and help regulate temperatures, reducing the stress on your HVAC system. They also allow natural light to enter your home, thus reducing the need for replacement windows artificial lighting.

Look for the ENERGY STAR and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when choosing new replacement windows to gauge their energy efficiency. The higher the rating the more efficient the windows. ENERGY STAR certified replacement windows can cut the cost of cooling and heating by up to 30%.

The energy efficiency of windows is affected by several factors which include the frame and sash material as well as the properties of insulation and the glazing materials. For instance, wood sashes are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wooden frames provide better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows are more energy efficient than sliding windows.

ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows not only help reduce your energy bills but also help protect the environment through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality as they help reduce noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds such as traffic, barking dog, and loud music in your home. New windows cut down on the unwanted sound, giving you to unwind in your own private space.

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

If you're replacing windows in an old building or updating your home, a quality installation is crucial. The right replacement windows will aid in reducing energy costs as well as increase comfort and security, and elevate the curb appeal of your home. Visit a showroom to find out more or browse your options online.