You’re ready for a home window replacement and you’re looking forward to the end result. You’ve made the smart choice to invest in your home’s resale value, its efficiency, and your comfort. But now that it’s time to make decisions about which window is best, do you find yourself overwhelmed by the different window types? Did your latest stroll through a window showroom leave you confused and unsure of which models are best for you?
As a consumer, there is a responsibility to shop smart and seek durable quality and reliable service that will truly improve your home. You want to team up with a window retailer and installer that has a strong track record and that can provide top materials. To start, simply check out this guide for buying windows and you can see what you need to prioritize and consider during the shopping process.
What Type of Window Do You Need?
Not all windows are made the same, which is probably one of the first things you are going to learn during the process of getting new windows. Before you make a buying decision, you need to consider your needs so you can choose the window that best suits your home.
You’ll have an easier time comparing different models and styles with a basic understanding of a window’s anatomy. With that in mind, here are the terms and definitions of some key window parts for your consideration.
- Frame: The collection of parts that mount the door panels or window sash.
- Sash: An assembly of rails and stiles that make a frame for holding glass.
- Pane: A sheet of glass that is framed in a window or door.
- Jamb: In a complete window frame, the jamb is really just vertical parts of a window frame.
- Head: Essentially, the top of the window frame. It is the main horizontal piece that makes up the top of the frame.
You don’t need to be a window expert to make a smart buying decision. In comparing window styles, consider that the main differences will be in how the window opens and closes, its lock functions, the screen positioning, and the window size.
Selecting Your Glass
One of the most important parts of getting new windows is teaming up with a retailer and installer that you trust, have good rapport with, and who you are comfortable asking questions. When it comes down to picking the glass for your windows, you’ll be happy that you can chat comfortably with the window installer and that you can get a sense of your glass and glass coating options.
One major benefit of installing new windows is the improved insulation they promise for your home. Single-pane glass is largely outdated and unsuitable for cold climates, so you would likely stay away from them when trying to maximize your home’s energy efficiency. Double-paned windows have a sealed air space between the glass, helping to reduce heat transfer. There is also the option to get a harmless gas like argon injected between window panes for extra insulation.
Energy Efficiency
How high does energy efficiency rank on your list of new window priorities? As you shop, consider the different R-values of the window styles and features that you’re looking at. Higher R-values mean better insulating properties, so use the measurement as a gauge for your new fixtures’ insulating properties.
The Final Word
As you shop around for your new windows, you want to t about what your current models lack and what you want in your dream situation. Even if you get the best windows available, however, they won’t be worth anything if they aren’t installed correctly. Find an installer that you can trust, that holds itself to high standards, and that can a long list of happy customer testimonials.