No home is ever complete without a window. And whether you think about it or not, your windows allow you to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the wonderful view of the great outdoors, even without stepping a foot outside.
Since they’ve always been there, unfortunately, most homeowners often neglect their windows. If your windows have seen better days, maybe it’s time to replace them with a new one that can improve your home’s curb appeal and increase overall energy efficiency.
However, choosing the right windows for your home can be daunting due to the numerous materials, features, and styles available today. This article shares some tips and things to consider when choosing the best windows for your home. Keep reading!
- Look Into Your Home’s Architecture
All homes have a specific architectural style that makes them look unique. Choosing windows that match your home’s design aesthetic can help you find the right window that will blend well with other structural features of your home.
Whether you have a traditional Tudor-style home with diamond-shaped mullions or a contemporary dwelling featuring tall glass windows, taking the time to consider your home’s architectural style can help guide you toward the most suitable window type.
If you don’t know which windows may fit your home’s architectural style, consider consulting the experts like Nova Exterior, an Arlington window installation company, or reputable ones in your local area. They can provide suitable recommendations for your window needs and ensure an efficient installation of your new windows.
- Choose The Right Type
Windows come in numerous looks and styles. However, the most basic and popular window types include:
- Single/Double Hung Windows: This is the most common window style found in most homes. It consists of two separate sashes that you can open and close by sliding up and down. A single-hung window can only be opened from the bottom by sliding up, while a double-hung window is opened from either bottom or top panels. This window style is well-suited for homes with small children since it prevents the risk of a kid climbing out the bottom window.
- Awning Windows: An awning window is hinged at the top. You open it by tiling it from the bottom, creating the appearance of an awning, thus the name. This type of window is more popular in coastal areas or for bathroom and basement windows.
- Casement Windows: A casement window swings out to the side to open while the other side remains stationary. Generally, a lever or other type of mechanism can be used to open this window style. These are very common windows, second only to single and double-hung windows. They have a slightly more modern appeal, and when properly positioned, they can be useful for catching and directing cool breeze into your home.
- Slider Windows: Consisting of side-by-side windows, this type of window slides open along the bottom and top tracks. Some windows can have one window fixed while the other moves side to side, but it’s typical to find this style with both windows sliding open. Slider windows are a great choice if you need to constantly close and open windows. It is also suitable if there’s limited space outside to swing a window open.
- Fixed Windows: Fixed windows are any windows with a glass pane fixed within a frame that doesn’t open or close. Fixed windows like bow or bay windows are a beautiful addition to kitchens or living rooms, providing an alluring view of the outside area.
Different window types offer various levels of energy efficiency, aesthetics, and overall functionality. Therefore, check every window type to ensure you get the right ones that best fit your needs and preferences.
- Consider The Frame And Sash Material
After choosing the type of window, you need to pick the material for the frame and sash. Generally, the most popular option is wood or vinyl.
Wood frames offer a beautiful appeal and good insulating properties. However, they require frequent maintenance, such as periodic painting or staining, to keep the natural look of wood. Plus, you need to protect it against excess moisture to prevent rotting.
On the other hand, vinyl provides the same benefits as wood but without too much maintenance. This window frame type is also more affordable than wood. This is also strong and durable as modern advancements improved its durability and lessened its cracking and warping tendencies. With proper maintenance, vinyl window frames may last for decades.
- Pick The Right Glass
Lastly, you want to choose the type of glass for your new window. Recent window technology has provided you with more choices and factors to consider. Besides determining the number of glass panes, you also get to decide the distance between these panes, which helps increase their insulating properties. Aside from insulation, you also need to consider other ratings, including u-factor, air leakage, solar heat gain coefficient, condensation resistance, and visible transmittance.
Takeaway
As you can see, choosing the right windows for your home doesn’t have to be too difficult. Whether you’re building a new home or want to replace old, drafty windows, considering the above tips and factors can help you find the best one that fits your requirements and express your home’s style.