7 Things You've Never Known About Replacement Windows

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are designed to keep cold air out and hot air in. They eliminate drafts, which reduces energy bills and reduces wear and wear on your AC and furnace.

But finding the right replacement windows for your home requires understanding your goals, wishes and requirements for this project. Start by asking yourself a few easy questions.

Styles

There are a lot of options available when it comes to replacing windows. You could be replacing double-hung windows at home with uPVC windows, for instance, or you could be remodeling a period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass and sleek aluminium frames. Perhaps you're in the process of building a new house and replacement windows want to choose windows that fit with the architectural style you have chosen.

The most popular style of replacement windows the sliding gliding model has sleek vertical lines and contemporary design that can be customized by incorporating shades between-the-glass or blinds. The gliding design also allows for great ventilation and it is easy to clean your windows inside.

Casement windows are another popular choice. They're easy to open from the side or the top and help you air your home more effectively. They can be installed with a transom or without one based on what you prefer. They're a great option for openings that are more than typical windows, like bay or bow windows.

Awning windows on the other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened just like a door. They're ideal for sizing up an area that is small or for adding light to dark rooms. The windows have fixed handles or a crank handle that makes opening and closing easier.

Another option you can select for a particular project is an insert replacement window. These windows fit inside the frame opening and preserve the original trim, siding and frame. These windows are especially effective with homes built in the century and have a distinct architectural style.

It is important to note that replacement windows differ from construction windows in terms of the nailing fin and brick mold, therefore it's important to know the differences between these two types before choosing a window for your home. Also, keep in mind that new construction windows can be used on new additions and buildings with clear openings without existing siding or trim.

Contact us at a Pella showroom today to learn more about the options available and find the ideal replacement windows for you home. You can also look through images of inspiring replacement projects in our online gallery to get inspired.

Materials

The frame material that you select will impact the appearance and performance of your new windows. You should choose the right material for your budget and design objectives. You have five options: vinyl, wood aluminum, clad-wood, and clad-wood.

Each kind of frame has unique advantages. Vinyl frames are cost-effective and easy to maintain, while wood has a timeless look and 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 a fantastic choice for log homes as well as historic homes and Craftsman style homes.

The material you choose for your frame will have a significant impact on the appearance and efficiency of your home. New window technologies reduce air infiltration to almost zero, and when combined with the right glazing can reduce your heating and cooling bills by as much as 40%..

Double-hung windows are made up of two large sashes which move vertically on tracks. They are balanced by springs and are able to be closed and opened. They are favored by homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to fit into a variety of architectural styles. The downside is that they're less energy efficient than other types of windows and their sashes could be damaged or warped over time.

A bay or bow window is a combination of three or more windows into a single unit and provides more light and space than a typical single-hung or casement window replacements. They can be customized in a wide variety of sizes and shapes to fit in with any room. Bay and bow windows are a great way of bringing more natural light into dark spaces or creating a dramatic entranceway.

Sliding doors can be 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 are available in a variety of styles and colors to suit your style.

In-swinging windows need more attention because they open inwards, not outwards. However, they do help prevent air leaks and are excellent insulators. In addition to being easy to clean, they're also an extremely popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Cutouts

You can pick from a range of replacement windows, based on the style and specifications of your home. These include picture windows that are stationary and do not open and are double-hung, casement, and shaped windows. These types of windows are able to be installed usually to replace existing window openings, transforming the look of a room without extensive remodeling.

During the installation, all of the original window screens, sashes and dividing bars will be removed, leaving only the frame, which 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 obscure it from view. Occasionally, if the original frame extends into the opening a little, it's possible to trim off a small portion of the frame, however it is crucial not to cut off too much of the nail fin, which is essential to allowing air and water to infiltrate.

Full-frame replacement windows are an additional option that you may want to think about for your home. They are typically used to replace windows that are only original, or when you want to add more windows. They are fitted with nailing fins made of metal that are usually hidden behind the drywall when the window is put in. They are a great choice for older homes since they look exactly like the original windows that were in the house.

Installing full-frame replacement windows for logs requires that you match the nail fin to the logs around it. This will prevent moisture from seeping in. This can be done by using an exclusive caulking product that matches the product being used, or by building two-by-four boxes inside the opening that is framed and sealing it to the abutting logs.

If you decide to install a full-frame replacement window it is crucial to employ a professional installer. They'll have all the tools and equipment needed to work safely from ladders and scaffolding. 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 conducting a thorough inspection of the window after installation and will ensure that all parts are working exactly as they should.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a major aspect to take into account when replacing windows. Older windows can let heat and cold escape, increasing your energy costs. Newer windows are insulated, and help control temperatures, which reduces the load on your HVAC system. They also allow natural light to enter your home, thus reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Be sure to look for the ENERGY START and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when selecting new windows to assess their energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the windows. ENERGY STAR certified replacement windows can reduce heating and cooling bills by up to 30%.

The energy efficiency of windows is influenced by many factors, including the sash and frame materials as well as the properties of insulation and the glazing materials. Sashes made of wood, for example are more energy efficient than vinyl sashes, and wood frames provide better insulation than aluminium. Double-hung windows are more energy efficient than sliding windows.

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

If you are replacing windows windows should be simple to open and close, as well as clean. Try tilt-in windows, that allow you to access difficult-to-access areas. You'll also want windows that secure and have an alarm system for added security.

Quality installation is important, whether you are replacing windows in an historic building or updating your home. The right replacement windows will help reduce energy costs while also increasing security and comfort, and elevate curb appeal. For more information, visit a showroom or browse through the options on the internet.