What s The Fuss About Replacement Windows

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home

New windows are designed for keeping cold air out and warm air in. They eliminate drafts, which reduces energy bills and reduces wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.

But finding the right replacement windows for your home will require understanding your goals, wishes and requirements for this particular project. You can get started by asking yourself a few simple questions.

Styles

When it comes to replacement windows, there are plenty of styles to pick from. It could be that you are replacing double-hung windows with uPVC in your home, or remodeling an older cottage with wide expanses of glass and slimline aluminum frames. You may be building an addition and would like to select windows that complement your architectural style.

The most commonly used style of replacement window is the sliding gliding style, which offers slim vertical lines and a modern look that can be customized by using shades or blinds between the glass. The gliding style also provides great ventilation and lets you easily clean your windows from inside your home.

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 either be fitted with a transom or without one based on the style you prefer. They're a great choice for openings that are bigger than normal window sizes, such as bow or bay windows.

Awning windows are hinged on top and can be opened to act as a door. They are perfect for adding light to an otherwise dark space or to increase the size of an area. They come with either a fixed or crank handle for effortless opening and closing.

Another option you can pick for a specific project is an insert replacement window. These windows are designed to fit into the opening of the frame and keep the original trim and siding. These windows work best with century-old homes that have a particular architectural style.

You should note that replacement windows differ from new construction windows in the sense of the nailing fin and brick mold, so it's important to know the difference between these two types before choosing a window to fit your home. New construction windows are suitable for new additions or buildings with clear openings that don't have siding.

If you're thinking of replacing your existing windows, call an Pella showroom to explore your options and find the ideal replacement windows for your home. Check out our online gallery of inspiration and browse photos of beautiful replacements.

Materials

The frame material you choose for the replacement windows will impact how the window looks and performs. It is crucial to select the right materials based on your budget and design preferences. There are five top-quality options to consider: vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, wood, and clad-wood.

Each type of frame has distinct advantages. Vinyl is affordable and easy to maintain and wood is an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is strong and durable in harsh climates, and clad lumber has the appearance of natural wood but resists dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is also a good choice for log cabins, historic homes, and Craftsman-style houses.

The right frame material will make a huge difference to your home's appearance as well as energy efficiency. New window technologies reduce air infiltration to nearly zero and, when paired with the right glass, can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%.

Double-hung windows are comprised of two sashes that are able to move vertically along tracks. They are balanced by springs and can be closed and opened. They are favored by homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to fit into a variety of architectural styles. The drawback is that they're less efficient in energy than other types of windows and their sashes may become brittle or corrode in time.

A bay or bow window combines three or more windows into one unit, and offers more light and space than a standard single-hung or casement window. They can be customized in a wide variety of sizes and shapes to suit any space. Bay and bow windows are a great way to bring more light into dark areas or adding drama to an entryway.

Sliding doors are a great solution for those who do not want to open their windows. They can be set up in a gap between walls or affixed to the wall above an existing door. They are available in a broad range of colors and styles to fit your taste.

In-swinging windows need more attention because they open inwards rather than outwards, but they also prevent air leaks and are great insulation. In addition to being easy to clean, they're also an extremely popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Cutouts

You can select from a range of replacement windows, based on the style and requirements of your home. Picture windows are not movable and are not open. Other types of replacement windows Glass windows include double-hung or shaped windows. In the majority of cases, you can install these types of windows on top of windows that are already in place to dramatically transform the look of a room with no significant changes.

When the window handles replacement is installed the window's screen, sashes, and dividing bars are removed, leaving a frame which the new window will slide right over. These frames are known as "jump frame" because the new window will be able to jump over the old one to obscure it. If the frame's original extends a bit into the opening, it may be possible to trim a portion off. However, it's crucial to not cut off too much nail fin which is vital for air and water infiltration.

Full-frame replacement windows are a different option that you may want to consider for your home. They are typically employed when replacing a single original window, or if you wish to add more windows. They have metal nailing fins which are usually hidden behind the drywall when the window is being installed. This makes them an excellent choice for older homes, since they look just like the windows that were originally in the house when they were constructed.

Installing full-frame replacement log windows requires matching the nail fin to the surrounding logs. This will prevent moisture from leaking into. This can be done by using an exclusive caulking product that matches the product being used, or by building a 2x box inside of the frame opening and sealing it to the abutting logs.

It is essential to employ a professional installer if you decide to install windows that are replaced with an entire frame. They'll have the tools and equipment to work safely on ladders and scaffolding. They will also know how to install the window in a way that it is both sturdy and energy efficient. They will also be aware of how crucial it is to perform a thorough check of the window once it has been put in.

Energy efficiency

Aside from aesthetics and ease of use energy efficiency is the primary consideration when selecting replacement windows. Older windows let heat and cold to escape, which can lead to higher energy bills. Newer replacement windows are insulated and can help regulate temperatures, reducing the stress on your HVAC system. They also let natural sunlight to shine into your home, reducing the need for artificial light.

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

The energy efficiency of windows is influenced by many factors which include the frame and sash material, the insulating properties, and the glazing materials. For instance, wood sashes are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wood frames are more insulating than aluminum. Double-hung windows have a higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.

ENERGY STAR certified replacement Windows not only reduce your energy bills but also aid in protecting the environment with a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve the indoor air quality since they reduce noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds to creep into your home, such as traffic, barking dogs and even loud music. Replacement windows can cut out the unwanted sound, giving you to unwind in your private space.

No matter if your replacement windows are double-hung, casement or bow and bay, they should be easy to open, close, and clean. Look for sashes with tilt-in, which allow you to reach those difficult-to-access spots. You'll want windows with an alarm and that lock securely.

A quality installation is essential, whether you are replacing windows in a historic building or updating your home. The right replacement windows can reduce energy costs, improve security and comfort, and also increase curb appeal. Visit a showroom to learn more about the options available or research them online.