What once was a feature that simply lets natural light into your home, windows today allow energy-conscious homeowners to minimize the costs of heating and cooling. If you’re looking to replace your existing windows, the key is to know the different types of material and selections available to you.
Before anything else, it’s time to consider window replacement if you notice the following telltale signs:
• Cracked window panes
• Rotting Frames
• Condensation and fogging
• Drafts
• Weak or loose frames
Before calling a professional contractor for window installation services, here is some important information you need to know about window replacement.
What do I need to know when buying a new window?
When shopping for windows, it’s important to keep in mind High/Low qualities.
• High – for High R-value that determines how a window prevents loss of heat.
• Low – for low emissivity, a method used to reflect the heat to the warm side of the glass so that the heat stays inside during cold weather and stays outside during warm weather.
What do I need to know when installing a window?
There are two choices for window installation:
• Retrofitting – inserting new windows into a preexisting window frame. This type of window replacement provides very little disruptions to the home.
• Brick-to-brick – requires complete removal of the window frame, trims, and casing and a new window with complete frame is installed
While retrofitting is less expensive to do, brick-to-brick is a more energy-efficient option. However, this is not always the case. It’s best to consult a professional contractor to determine what window installation service is right for your particular home.
What are the different types of windows?
There are a few different window options available, including:
• Casement windows are attached to its frame by hinges on the side and swings in and out like a door. This option operates with a crank, offers a high level of ventilation, and is tightly sealed when closed.
• Double-hung windows have top and bottom sashes that slide up and down. These are great for ventilation and provides increased airflow into your home.
• Picture windows are large and let an ample amount of natural light in. These fixed windows are used as a home statement and do not offer ventilation by themselves. This is why you’ll often find picture windows in-between casement or double-hung windows.
• Bay windows project from an exterior wall and are considered a classic design, often seen in Victorian-style homes.
Installing a window replacement
No matter what type of window option you choose, even the most advanced win-dow unit won’t perform effectively if it’s installed improperly. Window replacement can be a large investment and is best left in the hands of an experienced and certified contractor.
Overhead Door Company ensures the correct installation of your windows to avoid costly mistakes. Get in touch with one of our professional contractors today for reliable window installation services.
