Your home is among the most valuable asset you own. At all times, you want it to be in the best condition to remain your peaceful sanctuary. You are continuously carrying out home additions to enhance its functionality and appearance.
But have you replaced your property windows’ yet? Most people renovate their kitchen, floor, roof, and interior but forget about windows. Replacing your old windows with the best replacement windows might be what your home has been missing.
With new windows, you increase your home’s value, enhance its curb appeal and even reduce the cost of running it. But to enjoy all the benefits that come with new windows, it’s paramount to make the right choice. Windows come in different styles, features, and materials, and picking the right one can be daunting.
But being a long-term investment, there is no way around it; the right choice must be made. So, how do you pick the right windows for your home? Read more to learn how to choose the best window replacement.
Check the Style
You’ve already decided that it’s time to replace your old windows, right? So, what’s the best style for your home. Today, the market offers a wide range of different styles for replacement windows.
However, the one you pick largely depends on your personal taste and preference. It’s also crucial that you compliment the already existing style of your home.
Among the most common styles in replacement windows is single or double-hung windows. They consist of two separate sashes, which slide up and down to open or close. A single hung window will open from the bottom only, while the double-hung window can either open from top or bottom.
Casement window is another style of replacement window. These windows consist of a large sash that has been vertically hinged and open by swinging out. The windows are usually opened using a lever.
Awning windows are hinged at the top, and they tilt out from the bottom to open. As their name alludes, the windows create an awning appearance when open.
Check the Window Frame
It’s vital to check on what the window frame is made from. Here, you have a wide variety to choose from, including wood, vinyl, and vinyl clads. All these materials have their benefits and drawbacks when used as window materials.
While wood windows are beautiful and have good insulating properties, they need high maintenance. Apart from the normal staining and painting, wood windows require treatment to protect against moisture and rot.
Due to their benefits, vinyl windows have become very popular among homeowners. Their material is affordable, appealing, offers great insulation, and only requires basic maintenance. However, these windows are difficult to paint since paint doesn’t adhere to vinyl.
Vinyl Clad windows can be termed as a hybrid version of wood and vinyl. They offer the benefits of wood while shortcomings are covered by vinyl on the frame outside. This implies vinyl-clad windows are free maintenance but offer the natural feel and beauty of wood on the inside.
Composite windows are made from scrap plastic resins and scrap wood. While they look more like wood frames, they are virtually maintenance-free. This material is also eco-friendly, considering it is made from recycled plastics.
For rainy and humid climates, aluminum windows can be practical. They are not prone to corrosion and thus suitable for such areas as coastal buildings. However, these materials are not good insulators thus, increasing energy bills.
When choosing the best replacement windows for your property, consider the window frame. Choose one that matches your style and energy efficiency needs.
Check the Window Glass
Do you know the glass is the most important part of the window you are purchasing? As a consumer, you have a variety of choices to pick from, thanks to technological advancement.
You get presented with double, triple, and even quadruple pane glass. Also, the consumer can decide on the distance they want between the panes. Remember, it’s not the number of panes that will increase insulation but the air between the glass panes.
To increase their insulation feature, most manufacturers today are using an inert gas which is a better insulator than air alone.
Before choosing the type of glass to buy, get to know the number of panes it has and the type of insulation gas used.
Check the Quality
When buying a replacement window, you’ll likely get what you pay for. Don’t opt for the cheapest windows that you find to save a few dollars. Rather, find a top-quality window from a well-known brand to get value for money.
Choose a window that offers ease of use, low maintenance, and energy savings altogether.
Before making the purchase, does the manufacturer offer warranty for the product? A warranty can be a guarantee that the product you are buying is top quality. A reputable company will be more than willing to replace windows or sash with problems to maintain its brand image.
When buying replacement windows, the manufacturer matters. It’s imperative to have a background check to confirm the reputation of the one to buy from.
Energy-efficient Materials
Apart from enriching the curb appeal of your home, replacement windows should help you save on your energy bills. Contrary to conventional windows, modern windows are double or triple-paned. This means more energy efficiency feature to keep your energy bills low.
The several panes offer great insulation material that helps to maintain indoor temperatures. When picking replacement windows, inquire about their energy efficiency feature.
Choose the Best Replacement Windows
If you are replacing your worn-out windows or want a new look for your home, getting the best replacement windows is imperative. There are numerous options, and rest assured to find the most suitable one for your home. The above tips will get you started to make an informed decision.
Are you looking for a contractor to help you with window installation in Illinois or Indiana? Freeman Exteriors got you covered. We are a reputable window contractor offering a practical solution for all your window repair and installation needs.
Contact us today to get a free estimate.
