Replacement Windows… The Big "3"
Why Improve Your House?
Couples and individuals shopping for replacement house windows often express different concerns. There are those that want to replace their cold, drafty windows; others are confronted with deteriorating frames, while still others simply want to enhance the overall appearance of their home.
Let us know what is important to you and we will enter your name in a drawing to win a Free Gutter Cleaning [$50.00 value].
Regardless of what motivates you, replacement home windows are a significant investment. We want to help you select the right windows for your home.
Check Out Our Chart For Quick & Easy Window Replacement Comparisons
|
Characteristics: |
Vinyl |
Wood
|
Wood
Clad |
|
Durability |
Extremely
Durable |
Wood Frames are more
susceptible to damage associated with moisture |
Vinyl Clad -
Extremely Durable
Aluminum Clad -
Durable |
|
Strength |
Quite Strong |
A Bit Weaker |
Exterior Frame - Very
Strong
Interior Frame - A
Bit Weaker |
|
Energy
Efficiency |
Very Efficient |
A Great
Insulator |
Energy
Efficient |
|
Maintenance |
Virtually Maintenance
Free |
Maintenance required at
regular intervals such as painting, scraping, etc. |
Very Low
Maintenance |
|
Design |
Streamlined & Flexible -
Limited Color Palette |
Unique designs and natural
beauty of wood with limitless options |
Exterior- Designs
based on vinyl or aluminum
Interior- Designs
based on natural wood options |
|
Expense |
Moderate |
Moderate to High |
Moderate to
High |
Types of Windows
To help you decide what is best for you!
Bay Windows
Bay Windows are generally comprised of three or more windows. A unique look is achieved by projecting the side units out from the exterior in 30, 45 or 90-degree angles. For your replacement bay windows, you can elect for individual windows to remain stationary or operating. You may even choose to make your center window stationary and the two side units operating as double hung or casements. |
Awning Windows
Awning Windows feature a top hinge and open outwards. Your replacement awning windows will generally provide for lesser rates of air leakage. The reason? The sash closes by pressing against the window frame. Note that screens are placed on the interior of the window frame. |
Casement WindowsCasement Windows are based on a side hinge design. The benefits of replacement casement windows include: lower air leakage rates, a sash that closes by pressing to the frame, and screens that are placed on the interior. Additionally, because casement windows project outward, the home is afforded better ventilation than sliders of similar size. |
Double Hung Windows
Double Hung Windows feature the ability to slide each sash vertically. You are able to control the level of ventilation from a small opening to one half of the total glass dimension. Additionally, with double hung replacement windows, you have the option of placing a screen on the exterior of the window frame. Single Hung windows differ slightly. This style window allows only the bottom sash to slide. |
Double-Sliding windowsDouble-Sliding windows allow homeowners to slide both sashes horizontally, while single-sliding windows only provide for movement of one sash. Benefits are similar to that of double/single hung windows: ventilation area can be manipulated, and screens can be placed on both the interior and exterior of the unit. |
Fixed Frame WindowsFixed Frame Windows are the most basic of styles. This term typically alludes to windows that are inoperable or non-venting.
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Grades of Glass
Choices! Choices! Choices! Now that you know your window options, you will need to consider the various types of glass that are available. There are several different grades, and you will want to make the best decision based on your energy efficiency goals. This section has been designed to help you do just that!
Clear Glass
As you probably have already guessed, clear glass is the preferred material for home windowpanes. But with newer techniques such as glazing or cutting, as well as custom fitting, consumers now have the ability to 'customize' the appearance of their windows. Additional enhancements include glazing options that help control heat loss and condensation.
Low-Emissivity Glass (Low-E)
Low-E glass features an unique surface coating that reduces the heat transfer back through the window. In fact, such a coating can reflect anywhere from 60% of the normally transmitted heat without inhibiting the amount of light that passes through the window.
Heat-Absorbing GlassFeaturing special tints, heat-absorbing glass absorbs up to 45% of incoming solar energy, thereby reducing heat gain. However, keep in mind that a portion of the absorbed heat will pass through the window via conduction or re-radiation.
Reflective GlassReflective glass is favored for its ability to control solar heat gain during the summer months. The secret? This grade of glass is coated with a reflective film. Two additional aspects to consider: reflective glass helps reduce the passage of light throughout the year, and reduces solar transmittance. |
