How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are designed to keeping cold air out and warm in. They reduce drafts, which can help lower energy bills and cuts wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner.

But finding the right replacement windows for your home will require knowing your goals, wants and needs for this project. By asking yourself a few basic questions can help you start.

Styles

When it comes time to replace windows, there are many styles to pick from. You could be replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or remodeling an older cottage with wide expanses of glass and slimline aluminum frames. Or perhaps you’re in the process of building a new addition and are looking for windows that fit with your style of architecture.

The most popular kind of replacement window is the sliding gliding type that offers slim vertical lines and a modern appearance that can be personalized by using shades or blinds between the glass. The gliding style also provides great ventilation and allows you to clean your windows from inside the house.

Another popular choice is casement windows. They can be opened from either side or the top making it easier to ventilate your home. These windows can be set up with or without a transom, depending on your preference. They’re a great choice for openings that are larger than normal window sizes, such as bow or bay windows.

Awning Windows are hinged at the top and can be opened as doors. They are perfect for bringing light into rooms that are dark or for sizing a space. These windows come with a fixed handle or an adjustable crank handle to make opening and closing much easier.

Insert replacement windows are another design you can select for a specific project. These windows fit into the frame opening and keep the original trim, siding, and frame. These windows are especially efficient for homes with a particular architectural style.

It is important to note that replacement windows differ from new construction windows in terms of the nailing fin and brick mold, so it’s crucial to understand the distinction between the two types prior to selecting a window for your home. New construction windows are also suitable for new additions or buildings with clear openings that do not have siding in place.

If you’re thinking about replacing your existing windows, visit an Pella showroom to discuss your options and choose the perfect replacement windows for your home. Explore our online gallery for inspiration and browse photos of stunning replacements.

Materials

The frame material you select for the replacement windows will impact the way your window looks and performs. It is crucial to select the right materials based on your design and budget goals. You have five options that include wood, vinyl as well as aluminum.

Each type of frame offers distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain and wood is an elegant look that provides 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 great option for homes with logs, historic homes and Craftsman style houses.

The right frame material can make a huge difference to the appearance of your home and its energy efficiency. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to almost zero and, when paired with the right glazings can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%..

Double-hung windows are made up of two large sashes which move vertically along tracks. They are supported by springs and can be opened and closed. They’re a popular option for homeowners as they are versatile and can be incorporated into many architectural styles. The drawback is that they’re less efficient in energy than other window types and their sashes may be damaged or warped as time passes.

A bow or bay window combines three or four windows into one unit which provides more light and space to a conventional single-hung or casement windows. They can be customized to suit any space. Bay and bow windows are a great way to let more natural light into a dark space or add dramatic appeal to an entranceway.

Sliding doors are a great solution for those who do not want to open their windows. They can be placed between walls or hung on the wall above a door. They are available in a broad selection of styles and colors to fit your taste.

In-swing windows require more care because they open inwards instead of outward. However, they’re a great insulation, and they can also help to prevent air leaks. They are also popular in bathrooms and kitchens because they are easy to clean.

Cutouts

You can choose from a wide selection of replacement windows depending on the style and requirements of your home. Picture windows are not movable and cannot be opened. Other types of replacement windows include double glazed windows replacement-hung or shaped windows. These kinds of windows can be put in in most cases to replace window openings changing the look of a room without major renovation.

During the installation process the window’s screen, uPVC sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving the frame that the new window will slide right over. These frames are referred to as “jump frame” because the replacement window will be able to jump over the old to hide it. Sometimes, if the original frame extends beyond the opening a little it is possible to cut off a portion of that frame, however it is essential not to remove too much of the nail fin which is essential to allowing air and water to infiltrate.

You may also want think about full-frame replacement windows for your home. These are often used when you are replacing one window or if you are looking to install more windows. The nailing fins made of steel are usually hidden behind the drywall after the window is installed. This makes them a good choice for older homes since they look just like the original windows that were present in the home when it was built.

When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, it is important to ensure that the nail fins are matched with the surrounding logs to keep moisture from seeping into the structure. This can be accomplished using a caulking product that matches the product, or by constructing an enclosure of 2x4s within the opening that is framed and sealing it against the logs that are adjacent.

It is important to hire an experienced installer if you decide to install an alternative window that has a complete frame. They’ll have the tools and equipment to safely work on ladders and scaffolding. Additionally, they’ll be able to install the window to ensure that it is energy efficient and structurally sound. They also understand the importance of conducting an exhaustive inspection of the window after installation and will ensure that all components function exactly as they should.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important aspect to consider when replacing windows. Older windows may let cold and heat escape, increasing your energy costs. Modern windows are insulated and can help regulate temperatures, reducing the strain on your HVAC system. They allow natural sunlight into your home, reducing the requirement for artificial lighting.

Look for the ENERGY STAR and National Fenestration Rating Council ratings when selecting new windows to determine their energy efficiency. The higher the rating the more efficient the windows are. Energy STAR certified replacement windows can cut the cost of cooling and heating by up to 30%.

The energy efficiency of windows is influenced by a variety of factors which include the frame and sash 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 wooden frames are more insulating than aluminium. Double-hung windows are more energy efficient than sliding windows.

Energy STAR certified replacement Windows not only reduce your energy costs, but also help protect the environment through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve the quality of indoor air by cutting down on noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds like traffic, barking dog, and loud music in your home. New windows cut down on unwanted noise, allowing you to unwind in your private space.

If you are replacing windows, they should be easy-to-open and close and clean. Look for tilt-in sashes, which make it easier to reach those difficult-to-access spots. You’ll also want windows that secure and have an alarm for additional security.

Whether you’re replacing windows in an old building or updating your home, a high-quality installation is essential. The best replacement windows can cut down on energy costs, improve security and upvc comfort, and also improve curb appeal. Visit a showroom to find out more about the options available or research them online.