Advice on Choosing the Correct Type of Windows for Your Home

Purchasing new windows can be an investment. But it will pay off with lower energy bills in the long run. When selecting the best window type for your home, it’s important to consider style, energy use and labeling, material, and proper installation. A pro can help you find the right solution for your home.

Style

Whether you’re renovating or building a new home, you have a lot of windows to choose from. It’s important to consider the window style that best matches your property’s architectural design. Choosing the right type of windows is crucial to improving your home’s energy efficiency and achieving its design aesthetic. From single- and double-hung windows to impact windows, plenty of options suit any home style.

Consider installing casement windows if you’re building or updating a contemporary home. These windows open wide to allow ventilation and natural light into rooms. For homes with vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows are a popular option that allows for extra sunlight and air circulation. For a more traditional feel, consider sliding or pivot and awning windows, which are great for smaller spaces. They offer plenty of airflow and are easy to clean. They also work well in older homes with more of a historic look.

Installation

Window design is an important part of a home’s curb appeal. They can also significantly influence the climate of a room and improve air quality, and provide access to sunlight. Windows can also add a decorative touch to a home. Many options are available, whether replacing old windows or building a new house. Modern windows are designed to be safe and durable. They are less likely to shatter into sharp shards when broken and can be locked inside the home. They can also be easily opened from the top and bottom. It allows for a faster escape route during a house fire at Sash Wise.

In addition, new windows are more energy efficient than older ones. They are often made of double or triple panes and feature argon gas in between them. This odorless and colorless gas insulates the windows from the elements and reduces energy bills.

Energy Efficiency

When choosing a new window, you’ll want to consider its energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows prevent stale outdoor air from entering your home, reducing your energy costs. They also help save on heating and cooling costs while helping improve indoor air quality. The best way to judge a window’s energy efficiency is by looking at its U-factor. The lower the U-factor, the more efficient the window is. It is especially important in cold climates. Other factors to consider are the glass options and frames. Insulating materials like argon or krypton gas are often used between panes of glass to increase energy efficiency.

Additionally, low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings on glass can reduce solar heat and UV rays. A window’s sash, frame and sill must be properly installed to ensure effectiveness. The edges should be made from durable materials like aluminum or fiberglass. They should be sized correctly to fit the wall and must be load-bearing.

Material

Windows are available in various materials, each with pros and cons. Wood offers a traditional look and is an excellent insulator, but it’s expensive and requires annual maintenance. Vinyl is the most popular option and provides an affordable, energy-efficient choice. Fiberglass is another option but can be difficult to install and require a professional. Aluminum window frames are lightweight and durable, making them a good choice for larger expanses of glass. They also resist corrosion, rust and stains. But metal conducts heat easily and loses energy, so choosing a model with a thermal break or insulation is important to reduce its U-value. Softwoods, such as Douglas fir and European redwood, are excellent choices for contemporary or traditional-style projects and can be a good budget choice. However, they can be prone to movement and dimensional changes over time. It would help if you avoided wood-clad luxury windows types, which are more inclined to moisture problems and need regular maintenance.