PART 1: KNOW YOUR MATERIALS
When it comes to window replacement, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration. For one, windows come in various materials, each of which offer different sets of pros and cons that should be carefully weighed. There are also various types of window styles to choose from, which can all prove advantageous depending on the intended application and purpose. Furthermore, a window’s energy efficiency should also be considered, as you can recoup your investment over the long term in the form of energy savings. In this three-part post, we look at the aspects that will greatly matter in your final decision: appearance, durability, ease of maintenance, and energy efficiency. KNOW YOUR MATERIALS The material that your windows are made from has a lot to do with how well they will perform and how long they will last. Choosing window material is a crucial part of the window selection process. Thus, we need to know a bit about each of today’s popular window materials. Wood Wooden windows have a distinct classic look that traditionalists commonly prefer. Wood is a natural material that provides a number of benefits, which is why they are the choice of many homeowners despite its disadvantages.
PART 1: KNOW YOUR MATERIALS
Among wood’s advantages is its ability to insulate well. It also offers a naturally rustic and elegant appeal. However, wood frame windows are typically expensive and they require extensive maintenance to retain its look and its efficiency. When not treated, wood windows are susceptible to dry rot, insect damage, expansion, contraction, and warping. Vinyl Windows made from vinyl are steadily gaining popularity due to their low cost and light maintenance requirements. Vinyl windows are practically the least expensive choice. Furthermore, they won’t rot or corrode like other materials do; they only need regular wiping down, for the most part. However, vinyl can prove to be a weak material. When exposed to extreme heat and cold, it can crack, sag, twist, bow, and fade.
Metal Metal is popular because of its ability to be customized, making metalframed windows especially useful for unique architectural remodeling and historical restoration requirements. Aluminum windows, a type of metal windows, are also preferred by homeowners living in hot climates. While metal windows are known for their strength, they usually offer poor energy efficiency and may be susceptible to condensation buildup. They should also be regularly maintained to prevent rust and corrosion.
PART 1: KNOW YOUR MATERIALS
Fiberglass Although a relatively new option, fiberglass is also gaining popularity. It is said to be as easy to maintain as vinyl, and can offer high insulation values. They are also durable. However, they often come at a high cost. Composite Similar to fiberglass windows, composite products are also new in the market, but they offer a number of advantages that one cannot easily discount. Composite window frames are made from polymers and wood fibers that give strength and resistance against factors that would usually damage other materials. Composite windows can also be made to look like wood windows.
As composite windows are new products, you need to carefully consider where you will get yours from. One manufacturer’s composite window may be different from another. To make the most of its benefits, you need to buy from a trusted and established manufacturer. ooooo
In the next post, we take a look at the window designs or styles available on the market, so stay tuned.
PART 2: A RUNDOWN OF WINDOW STYLES
If your windows have served your home for some time now, it may be time to get them replaced soon. The good news is that this is an excellent time to be taking on window replacement projects, as there are a lot of options available for you to choose from, all of which can help you make the most of your investment. In this post, we’ll check out the window styles that can bring your home’s aesthetics and curb appeal to the fore. Double-Hung Traditional with a versatile appeal, double-hung windows are among the most common types of windows installed in American homes. A double-hung window has two sashes that slide up and down to open or close. Typically, both sashes can be operated, giving you the option to open either sash. You can also open both at the same time, letting the sashes meet halfway at the center. Double-hung windows can fit practically any home architectural style. Casement Works best for climates where wind is an issue. Casement windows usually consist of one large sash that is hinged vertically at the side and is designed to crank outward. Coined as the second-most weather-tight window, they practically seal themselves off when closed, especially as wind typically blows toward the house or building.
PART 2: A RUNDOWN OF WINDOW STYLES
Gliding These windows offer a contemporary look that blends well with any home style and practically all kinds of decor. They slide along a horizontal track, making them perfect for hard-to-reach areas. The sashes of gliding windows are usually all-glass, giving you adequate natural lighting indoors, and framing outdoor views. Bay and Bow These type of windows typically protrude from the home’s wall. Aside from greatly enhancing the property’s looks, they also provide more interior space that can be used for seating or storage. Bay and bow windows are basically combinations of stationary windows with operable windows, typically double-hung or casement. Bay windows usually have a polygonal appearance while bow windows are more rounded.
PART 2: A RUNDOWN OF WINDOW STYLES
Picture A type of stationary or fixed window, picture windows are made of huge glass that can run from the ceiling to the floor. They are specially intended for showcasing outdoor views and letting maximum light in. As they are inoperable, they are also the most weather-tight type of window and can greatly help enhance a home’s energy efficiency. Awning Hinged at the top, awning windows swing outward. They are great for spaces that need just the right amount of ventilation but require privacy.
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In the next post, we discuss about another important aspect when replacing windows: energy efficiency.
PART 3: AIM FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
If you wish to get the ultimate benefit from a window replacement project, you should seriously consider energy efficiency features and values. Fortunately for homeowners, you have a lot of choices today. As more and more people become conscious about how they use and save energy, more manufacturers also continually work to meet the demand. As a result, window products are made more energy-efficient. However, not all windows are made the same, and in this post we discuss the factors that determine a window’s energy performance and set it apart from others. U-Factor and Other Energy Efficiency Values When quantifying the energy efficiency of a fenestration product such as windows, U-factor is among the measurements that one shouldn’t miss. U-factor is used to measure the rate of heat loss in a window assembly. Thus, the lower the U-factor, the better the window’s insulation properties and resistance to heat flow. Basically, a window with outstanding U-factor figures can reflect away heat that comes from the outside, while keeping heated or conditioned air indoors.
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) provides products with a U-factor rating for the whole window assembly. This includes the glass, frame, and spacers. At times, center-of-glass U-factor is also referenced to determine the performance of the glass alone. Highquality and high-performance double-pane windows typically have whole-window U-factors of 0.35 or lower.
PART 3: AIM FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Aside from U-factor, the NFRC also provides measurements for solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible transmittance (VT), and air leakage (AL), which are all factors that help determine the energy efficiency of a window product. Low-E Glass: Why Opt for One? Low-e glass refers to a type of glass used for windows that come with low-emissivity coating. This is a thin, virtually invisible layer of metal oxide designed to reflect heat away and reduce if not totally eliminate emissivity or the ability of a material to radiate heat.
Low-e coatings have been developed to reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light that passes through glass without affecting visible light transmission. Because of this, low-e glass can help improve solar and thermal control in a home. It also aids in the reduction of heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Getting new windows is one of the best things that you can do for your home not just to enhance its appearance, but its comfort and energy efficiency, too. By choosing the right material and style, and considering necessary energy performance values, you are ensuring that you will make the most of your investment. For best results, find a window contractor who can provide you high-quality products and services.
Renewal by Andersen of Denver and Colorado Springs 1401 W Bayaud Ave #5 Denver, CO 80223 (303) 968-3287 (719) 313-5403 LoveYourWindows.com