7 Things You d Never Know About Replacement Windows
How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed to keep cold air out and warm air in. They reduce drafts which lowers energy bills and reduces wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.
However, choosing the right replacement windows for your home requires knowing your goals, desires and requirements for this particular project. Asking yourself a few basic questions can help you get started.
Styles
When it comes to replacement windows, there are a variety of styles to pick from. It could be that you are replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or transforming an old-fashioned cottage with huge expanses of glass and aluminum frames that are slimline. Or maybe you're in process of building a new home and want to choose windows that match your style of architecture.
The most popular style of replacement windows is the sliding gliding style that 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 permits excellent ventilation and allows you to easily clean your windows inside.
Casement windows are another popular choice. They can be opened from the side or top, making it easier to let air into your home. These windows can either be installed with a transom or without one based on what you prefer. These windows are ideal for openings that are bigger than standard sizes, like bay or bow window.
Awning Windows are hinged at the top and can be opened as doors. They are great for bringing light into rooms that are dark or for sizing an area. The windows have a fixed handle or a crank handle to make opening and closing a breeze.
Insert replacement windows are a different type you could select for a specific project. These windows are designed to fit inside the opening of the frame and preserve the original trim and siding. These windows are especially effective for homes built in the past century that have a particular architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction in regards to the brick mold and nailing fin. It's important to understand the differences between the two types before selecting windows for your home. Also, remember that new construction windows can be installed on new additions as well as buildings with clear openings without any trim or siding.
Contact an Pella showroom today to learn more about your options and discover the perfect replacement windows for you home. You can also look through images of inspiring replacement projects in our online gallery to be inspired.
Materials
The frame material you choose for the replacement windows will impact how the window looks and performs. It is important to choose the right materials based on your design and budget goals. There are five top-quality options to consider: vinyl aluminum, fiberglass wood, clad-wood, and wood.
Each type of frame comes with unique advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain, whereas wood offers timeless beauty with superior insulation. Aluminum is resistant to harsh climates and clad wooden frames look like natural wood, but are more resistant to scratches than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a good option for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style houses.
The material you choose for your frame will have a major impact on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technologies have cut air infiltration to almost zero and, when paired with the appropriate glazing, can slash your heating and cooling costs by as much as 40%..
Double-hung windows have two large sashes which move vertically on tracks and are counterbalanced by springs to allow them to open and close. They are popular with homeowners because of their versatility and ability to fit into various styles of architecture. They are not as energy efficient as other window types and their sashes can get corroded or warp over time.
A bow or bay window combines three or more windows into one unit and provides more light and space than a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be customised with a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any room. Bay and bow windows provide an excellent way to bring more natural light into a dark space or to add drama to an entranceway.
Sliding doors are a great solution for those who do not want to open their windows. They can be erected in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall above the door. They come in a variety of designs and colors to match your style.
In-swinging windows need more attention because they open inwards, not outwards. However, they do prevent air leaks and are great insulation. In addition to being simple to clean, they're also a popular option for kitchens and bathrooms.
Cutouts
You can choose from a variety of replacement windows, based on the style and requirements of your house. Picture windows are not movable and are not open. Other types of replacement windows are double-hung, shaped, and casement windows. These kinds of windows are able to be installed usually to replace windows that are already in use and transform the appearance of a room without extensive renovation.
During installation the window's original screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving a frame that the new window will slide right over. They are referred to as "jump frames," because the new window is positioned to jump over the old one to block it from view. Sometimes, if the original frame extends into the opening it is possible to cut off a portion of that frame, but it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin which is essential to air and water infiltration.
You may also want to look into full-frame replacement windows for your home. They are usually used when you are replacing one window replacement cost (More hints) or when you want to install more windows. They are fitted with nailing fins made of metal which are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window is installed. They are a great choice for older homes since they are similar to the original windows that were in the house.
When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is matched with the surrounding logs in order to keep moisture from seeping into the structure. This can be accomplished by using a caulking system that is specifically designed to match the product you are using, or by building a 2x box inside of the framed opening and sealing it to the adjacent logs.
It is important to hire an experienced installer if you decide to use windows that are replaced with a complete frame. They'll have the tools and equipment required to safely work from ladders and scaffolding. Additionally, they'll be able to install the window so that it is energy efficient and structurally sound. They are also aware of the importance of performing a thorough examination of the window following installation and will ensure that all components function as they should be.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when replacing windows. Older windows allow warm and cold air escape, increasing your energy bills. Modern windows are insulated and help regulate temperatures, reducing the stress on your HVAC system. 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 you are choosing replacement windows to assess their energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the window. Windows that are ENERGY STAR certified have been tested to cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 30%, saving you money on your utility bills over time.
There are many elements that influence the efficiency of windows, including frame and sash window replacement materials, insulating qualities, and 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 efficient in energy than sliding windows.
ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows will not only lower your energy bills, but they also aid in protecting the environment with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve the indoor air quality because they cut down on noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds like traffic, barking dogs, and loud music into your home. New windows cut down on unwanted sound, allowing you to be able to relax in your own private space.
No matter if your replacement windows are double-hung, casement, or bay and bow windows, they should be easy to open, Window Replacement Cost close, and clean. Try tilt-in windows, that allow you to access hard-to-reach places. You'll want windows that have alarms and locks that are secure to lock.
It is crucial to have a quality installation, whether you are replacing windows in an old construction or upgrading your home. The best replacement windows can cut down on the cost of energy, improve security and comfort, as well as improve curb appeal. Visit a showroom to learn more or explore your options online.