Replacing or Upgrading Your Windows - what to consider
Choosing to replace the windows in your home has many benefits: new windows are a great way to upgrade and enhance the look of your home, increases energy efficiency, and it will also make your spaces quieter and less drafty. Because this is a big purchase and can be a huge cost, it is best to go into it knowing exactly what you need and what is best for you and your home. Although your contractor is going to help you, knowing what brands and look you want will help make your experience more efficient and less stressful.
How to Save Money
Even though there are a lot of expenses when it comes to replacing windows, there are certainly ways to save money. If your frames are in great shape, then you can save a great deal of money in this area. If you’d like to keep your current frames, then you will only need pocket replacements that fit right in your current frames. If your frames need to be replaced, that will add expenses to your project. In that case, you will want to price out getting a new frame, sill, jamb, and a nailing flange (to attach the window to the outside wall).
To make sure that you have your windows installed correctly, find an installer that can lead you through the process. This will make sure that everything is done correctly and save you time and headache later. We suggest using the same contractor for the buying and installation process for this can help eliminate potential problems later.
When choosing windows, going with certified Energy Star windows can save you money over the long run. It may take a couple of years to see the true savings, but choosing Energy Star windows can lower your energy bill by 12%. Many local utility companies, city and state programs offer incentives and rebates if you decide to go with Energy Star certified windows.
Types of Frames
Although aluminum frames used to be the most popular and they can still be found sometimes today, vinyl frames have become the most popular by far in the past decade. Today both vinyl and wood frames can be found in most homes today, however, the newest option is the composite frames which are growing in their popularity.
Wood
Wood frames are made of solid wood and typically need consistent maintenance. However, an option is to buy wood frames with the exterior covered in aluminum or vinyl to protect from them the weather, and then they will not need to be repainted regularly. A benefit to wood frames is they allow you to pick from a variety of looks to match the style of your home.
Vinyl Frame
Vinyl frames tend to be the least expensive and require the least amount of maintenance since they don’t need to be painted or stained. They only come in a white option and cannot be painted, so you may want to consider other options if you want to coordinate with the colors of your home.
Composite Frame
Composite frames are another cost-effective option, and they also tend to have the look of solid wood. They tend to have solid wood or laminated wood on the outside to give the appearance of solid wood, while also having a stable structure that is actually stronger than wood. Because these frames are made of fiberglass needles and fibers they are stiffer than vinyl. The only downside is that there just aren’t as many brand and style options in this type of window frame yet.
Types of Windows
Double Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are widely used and very popular because of how efficient and user friendly they are. The lower inside sash slides up and the upper outside sash slides down, allowing for full window screens and improving the overall air circulation. They make cleaning easy as well since both the top and bottom open so you can get both the inside and outside. One thing to consider when choosing this window is the brand, some are rated better than others in terms of keep rain and other debris out.
Single Hung
These are very similar to the double-hung windows, but a little cheaper. Only the bottom sash moves up, rather than both the upper and lower sash moving. Because the top sash doesn’t open, it is sealed to keep out any water and cold air that might come through.
Casement Style
Casement windows are hinged at one side and have a crank that allows you to open the window outward. When they are fully open they give an unobstructed view, are easy to clean, and give ample airflow into your space. The sash closes tightly, making this an airtight window style. The only thing to consider is that window air conditioners cannot be installed in this window style.
Awning Style
Awning-style windows are very similar to casement style as they are airtight and open outward. The only difference between the two is that the awning style is hinged at the top.
Hopper Style
This style is also very similar to the casement and awning windows. They are just hinged at the bottom, rather than the side or top, and can be opened both inward and outward.
Fixed Windows
Fixed windows are a great option for decoration and lighting as they come in tons of styles and decorative glass and unusual shapes can be used in this style. This is best for an area that doesn’t need as much airflow as they are fixed windows.
Features to Consider
Cladding
Cladding is used on the outside of solid wood window frames to eliminate any need for painting and protect the window from any outside elements. They come in either aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass, and can be added later, although they are very useful. They are the most expensive part of solid wood windows, but tend to look the best and have many style options for the home.
Window Glazing
Window glazing helps with both the insulation and noise control of your windows. Double glazed windows have a sealed space between two window panes filled with air or argon gas. Although the gas does provide better insulation, it won’t save you money, therefore it might not be worth paying more for if given the option. Triple glazing adds a third window pane to the window will significantly reduce noise.
Low-E Coating
Low emissivity, or low-e, coating keeps heat out while still allowing light into the space. If you are in a warmer climate, such as San Diego, the coating is placed on the outside of the window to reflect the sunlight and keep heat out. Colder climates will have a coating on the inside to keep the heat in. The coating is transparent and won’t affect visibility, but is there to simply improve the efficiency of the home.
There are a lot of elements and features to consider when replacing windows, but it can be a great option in order to improve the look of your home while also making the home more energy-efficient. Learning the various options is a great start!