Does your window need changing? More than likely, the answer is yes if your window is damaged, outdated, or both? The good news is you don’t need to do it by yourself. A window replacement specialist can visit your house, remove the broken windows, and install them quickly.
The problem is the type of window you want to install. Choosing new windows can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.
Knowing the factors that can affect your choices will help your windows meet your needs and improve the insulation and efficiency of your home while maintaining aesthetics and safety.
Here are some things to consider while choosing new windows:
Table of Contents
1. Type of Window or Application
There are several different types or styles of windows such as casement, double-hung, French doors, hopper/transom, sliding patio door, single hung, skylight, storm/screen door, and transom windows.
Each one has advantages and disadvantages, depending on its unique purpose. For example, storm doors provide security but don’t allow for much light because they’re often covered in screens, while patio doors let in plenty of natural light but increase the risk of break-ins.
2. Material
The material used to make your window will affect its appearance, durability, and cost. For example, aluminum is corrosion-resistant and lightweight, making it easy to install on any exterior surface.
Wood can be stained or painted to fit any decorating style. Vinyl is extremely low maintenance with a sleek look that doesn’t require painting.
3. Energy-Efficient Features
New windows should have great insulation, especially if you want them to reduce your energy bill and save you from weather problems such as freezing pipes or unbearable heat during the summer months.
Windows with high solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC) are preferable for colder climates. Find windows too with ideal U-values. The lower the U-value, the better the window is at preventing transfer and improving energy efficiency.
5. Appearance
Everyone wants attractive windows that will enhance the beauty of your home instead of detracting from it, so appearance should be considered when choosing new windows.
Consider the style of your exterior and interior decor, size of the windows, and whether you want to maintain the view from inside. If the new windows will be larger than the existing ones, it might be worth investing in new window treatments such as blinds, drapes, or even shutters to make sure your windows don’t look naked and out of place.
6. Budget
Your budget will affect how much you spend on new windows, which can vary greatly depending on whether you buy them yourself or hire a contractor to install them for you.
You may even be eligible for tax credits that could decrease the cost by several hundred dollars per window installed. With careful planning and research, you can find a window that fits within your budget and meets all of your needs.
7. Manufacturer’s Reputation
Choosing a well-known brand name can ensure that you get high-quality, durable windows with great customer service and warranties. They may cost more money upfront, but they’ll last longer and look better over time.
Don’t forget to read online reviews from previous customers or write a review yourself after dealing with customer service representatives to help others shop for windows.
8. Ease of Maintenance
There are two types of maintenance for windows: cleaning and repairing.
Some windows, such as wooden ones, may require more frequent waxing or polishing to prevent the wood from drying out or splitting. Others may need replacement screens or parts more often depending on their strength and quality.
You also have to consider how easy it will be to clean each type of window in your home. Remember that windows should only be thoroughly cleaned by professionals who know the best techniques for difficult jobs like removing streaks without harming the glass.
9. Warranties
Most new windows come with at least a one-year warranty against defects in workmanship or materials, which means any problems caused by these errors will be fixed free of charge during this period (or the manufacturer may simply replace the window).
Make sure to ask for the warranty information in writing and read all the fine print before making your final decision. Most warranties are not transferable, meaning they will become void if you sell your house.
10. Location
The climate where you live can have a big impact on how long your new windows last. If you live in a place with a lot of sun, for example, you might want to get windows that are good at keeping the heat out. If it’s really cold where you live, you’ll want to look for windows with a good insulation rating.
Replacing windows can have a huge impact on your home’s comfort and energy efficiency, which means it’s important to do some research before choosing new windows. Taking into account as many of these ten factors as possible will help you find the perfect windows for your house.
