There are several benefits that come with buying new windows for your home. Unfortunately, the process of choosing replacement windows can be extremely stressful, especially with all of the different options available.
Not only will the windows that you choose play a significant role in your home’s appearance, but they will also impact your security and the amount of natural lighting that you allow inside. Additionally, they can also impact your energy bill. For this reason, there are a few things that you should consider when selecting windows.
Things to Consider When Buying New Windows
You should take several factors into account when selecting new windows for your home.
What Is Your Budget?
Windows come in several different styles. As a result, they are made to fit nearly every budget. It is important to consider how much money you want to spend on your new windows. If you select fancier windows, such as bay windows or bow windows, you could end up spending several hundred dollars more than a typical single or double-pane window option. It is essential to refrain from getting attached to any particular style of windows until you confirm that it is within your budget.
What Is the Energy Efficiency Rating?
Windows are not only responsible for letting natural light in your home, but they also have the ability to allow cold and hot air in and out. This can increase the cost of your energy bill and lead to unnecessary waste. It is essential that you consider windows that have a higher rating for energy efficiency. Even though these windows may cost more upfront, they will continue to save you money over time.
There are two factors that measure the efficiency of a window. These include:
- U-factor: This U-factor is a scale that is used to describe the thermal conductivity of windows. The scale ranges from 0.2 to 1.25. The lower the number, the less hot air escapes during cold weather and vice versa.
- Solar heat gain coefficient rating (SHGC): The SHGC is a rating that describes how much solar energy the windows allow to pass through. Higher SHGC ratings allow more heat to enter the home, which can keep you warmer during the cold months. A lower SHGC rating may be better during the hot months as it blocks additional heat from entering your home through the window openings.
Taking these numbers into consideration can help you choose the level of energy efficiency that you want for your space.
The Architecture of Your Home
The architecture and landscaping of your home can play a vital role in the type of windows that you select. You should take into consideration where the sun will rise and set over your house. If there are areas that receive more sun explosion, you may want to opt for windows that provide additional UV protection or select a smaller window for the opening. Areas that do not have exceptional views and very little light do not require huge picturesque windows.
What Type of Frames Are You Interested In?
New windows have several styles and materials available to choose from for frames. Each type of frame has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, particularly when it comes to appearance, maintenance, cost, and insulation.
Are There Safety Risks?
It is easy for homeowners to forget the potential for danger around windows. Homes with young children or those planning to start a family should consider installing windows that do not open or opt for double-hung windows that open from the top instead of the bottom. This is particularly important if you have a home with more than one level.
There are new windows available on the market that offer protection against break-ins, securing bars, and even their own locking mechanisms. You can never be too cautious when choosing safety options for new windows as there is often a lot to consider.
How Many Panes Do You Want?
When purchasing new windows, you have the opportunity to select the number of panes of glass that you want. Even though single-pane windows are an option, they are becoming increasingly unpopular due to the fact that they are especially vulnerable and can break easily. They also do very little to improve energy efficiency as they allow a lot of heat to escape.
What Type of Glazing Should You Choose?
You have the option of choosing window glass that has a low-emissivity coating. A low-E coating ensures that light is able to pass through the window but still blocks the sun’s heat from entering your home. It also blocks your inside air from escaping, which can lead to spikes in your energy cost. Preventing hot air from entering your home and cool air from escaping can help keep your home at a comfortable temperature without increasing the costs of heating and cooling.
In addition to low-E, you can select glazing that helps to provide privacy, limit noise, and provide a customized look. There are several options to choose from, and you also have the ability to select glass with multiple glazing options, so that you get all of the benefits you desire.
Is There a Specific Design You Want?
There are several styles for new windows to choose from. You can have a window fully customized, or you can select one of the most common types of windows for your home. Some of the available options include:
- Double-hung windows: These windows have two sashes that are operable. You can tilt the window open at the top or bottom, depending on your preference.
- Single-hung: These windows have one single sash. The bottom half of single-hung windows can open. However, the top remains in a fixed position.
- Sliding windows: These windows slide open in a side-to-side manner.
- Hopper windows: These windows open downward and inward as they have a hinge located at the bottom of the window.
- Folding windows: These windows fold open instead of sliding.
Let Our Window Experts Help You!
If you are interested in having new windows installed in your home, reach out to our team at Martin & Sons LLC. Our team can go over different options that are available and help you decide which ones will work best in your space. Call our St Peters, MO, office today at 314-839-0700 to get started!