The Complete List Of Replacement Windows Dos And Don'ts

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are made for keeping cold air out and warm in. They reduce drafts which lowers the cost of energy and also reduces wear and wear on your AC and furnace.

But finding the right replacement windows for your home requires understanding your goals, replacement windows wishes and requirements for this particular project. Asking yourself a few basic questions will help you begin.

Styles

When it comes time to replace windows, there are a variety of designs to pick from. You might be replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or renovating a period cottage with large expanses glass and slimline aluminum frames. Perhaps you're in the process of building a new addition and would like to select windows that fit with your architectural style.

The most popular type of replacement windows the sliding gliding model provides sleek vertical lines and contemporary design that can be personalized by adding between-the-glass shades or blinds. The gliding style also offers great ventilation and lets you easily clean your windows from inside your home.

Casement windows are a popular choice. They can be opened from either the top or side making it easier to let air into your home. They can be installed with transoms or without based on the style you prefer. They're an excellent choice for openings that are larger than typical window sizes, such as bow or bay windows.

Awning Windows are hinged on top and can be opened like doors. They are ideal for sizing an area that is small or for adding more light to dark rooms. The windows come with either a fixed or crank handle that allows for quick opening and closing.

Insert replacement windows are a different type you could select for a specific project. These windows are designed to fit inside the frame's opening and keep the original trim and siding. These windows are especially effective with century-old homes that have a particular architectural style.

Replacement windows differ from new construction in regards to the brick mold and nailing fin. It is crucial to know the differences between these two types before selecting a window for you home. New construction windows are suitable for new constructions or buildings with clear openings that don't have siding in place.

Contact a Pella showroom today to learn more about the options available and discover the perfect replacement windows for your home. You can also browse through photos of stunning replacement projects in our online gallery to get inspired.

Materials

The frame material you select for replacement windows your replacement windows will affect how the window appears and performs. It's important to find the appropriate materials based on your design and budget goals. There are five top-quality options to consider: vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass wood, clad-wood and clad-wood.

Each kind of frame has its own unique advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain and wood is an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is resistant to harsh climates and clad wooden frames look like natural wood, but are more resistant to dents than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a great option for log cabins, historic homes and Craftsman-style houses.

Choosing the correct frame material can have a significant impact on your home's appearance and energy efficiency. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to a minimum and, when coupled with the appropriate glazing can cut your cooling and heating costs by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows are made up of two sashes that are vertically moved on tracks. They are balanced by springs to allow them to open and close. They are popular with homeowners due to of their flexibility and ability to fit into many styles of architecture. The downside is that they're less efficient in energy than other window types, and their sashes can warp or corrode as time passes.

A bay or bow window is a combination of three or more windows into one unit, and offers more light and space than a typical single-hung or casement window. They can be adapted to fit any space. Bay and bow windows are a great way to bring more light into dark spaces or creating a dramatic entranceway.

Sliding doors are a great solution for those who don't want to open their windows. They can be hung between walls or placed on the wall above the door. They can be found in a wide range of colors and styles to fit your taste.

In-swinging windows require more upkeep since they open inwards rather than outwards. However, they do aid in preventing air leaks and are effective insulation. In addition to being simple to clean, they're a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Cutouts

There are a myriad of styles of replacement double glazed window windows you can pick from according to the style of your house and what you require. These include picture windows, that are stationary and don't open and are double-hung windows, casement and shaped windows. These types of windows can be installed typically to replace windows that are already in use, transforming the look of a room without major remodeling.

During the installation, all of the original windows' screens, sashes, and the dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame that the new window will slide over. The industry refers to these frames as "jump frames" because the new window jumps right over the old one to hide it from view. Occasionally, if the original frame extends beyond the opening it is possible to cut off a small portion of the frame, however it is essential not to remove too much of the nail fin, which is crucial to allowing air and water to infiltrate.

You may also want think about full-frame replacement windows for your home. These are used to replace windows or to add additional windows. They have metal nailing fins, which are typically hidden behind the drywall once the window is put in. They are a great choice for older homes because they look exactly like the original windows that were in the home.

When replacing windows with full frames in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is matched with the logs surrounding it to stop water from getting into the structure. This can be accomplished by using a caulking system that is specifically designed to match the material being used or by building a 2x box inside of the opening that is framed and sealing it to the abutting logs.

It is crucial to hire a professional installer if you decide to install a replacement window with an entire frame. They will have the necessary tools and equipment to work safely on scaffolding and ladders. Additionally, they'll be able to install the window so that it is energy efficient and structurally sound. They will also know how crucial it is to conduct a thorough inspection of the window after it is installed.

Energy efficiency

Aside from aesthetics and ease of use, energy efficiency should be an important factor when choosing replacement window glass windows. Older windows let heat and cold to escape, increasing energy bills. Modern windows are insulated, and help to regulate temperatures, reducing the load on your HVAC system. They allow natural sunlight into your home, which reduces the requirement for artificial lighting.

Check for the ENERGY STAR 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 windows. Energy Star-certified replacement windows have been confirmed to reduce the cost of cooling and heating by as much as 30%, saving you money on utility bills over time.

There are a variety of factors that affect the energy efficiency of windows, including frame and sash material as well as insulating properties, and glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for example, are more energy-efficient than vinyl sashes, and wooden frames provide better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows offer higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.

ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows will not only lower your energy costs, but also help to protect the environment by the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality by reducing noise pollution. Older windows allow outside sounds like traffic, barking dog, and loud music in your home. New replacement windows reduce the noise that can disturb you and allow you to relax and unwind in your private space.

If you are replacing windows they should be easy-to-open and close, as well as clean. Consider tilt-in windows that allow you to access hard-to-reach places. Windows should also lock securely and have an alarm for additional security.

A quality installation is essential regardless of whether you are replacing windows in a historic building or upgrading your home. The right replacement windows can reduce the cost of energy, improve security and comfort, as well as increase curb appeal. To find out more visit a showroom, or browse through the options on the internet.