If you have old windows that have seen better days on your house, replacing them with new double pane, energy-efficient windows can get you a long way. For starters, you’ll save a lot on both your cooling and heating bills. Additionally, you’re adding value and curb appeal to your home. But, to get the most of this you need to know how to choose the right type of windows for your home.
This can easily get overwhelming even if you’re trying to take the minimalist approach since there are so many styles, materials, and features available. Also, windows are expected to last up to 20 years, so this is one serious investment. That’s why doing the homework is so important if you want to avoid all the headaches later on.
Window styles
The first decision you’ll have to make is what style of windows you want to get. There are four basic and popular types you should consider if you want to choose the right type of windows for your home.
Single or double-hung windows are the first choice for many. These you can see in every house. They’re made out of two separate sashes which are opened by sliding up or down. Double-hung windows are a great choice if you want to create some airflow in your home. Just lower the tip sash and you’ve got yourself ” an AC”.
Casement windows consist of one large sash that opens by swinging out. There’s always a lever or mechanism to open this type of window and that’s why they’re a little bit more expensive.
Awning windows are the ones that are hinged at the top and that you open by tilting them from the bottom. The name is pretty much self-explanatory. There are used in bathrooms and in coastal areas, therefore if you’re buying a home in Delray Beach make sure that it has these.
Slider windows open from side to side. So, if you have limited space outside to swing the window open, these are the best choice out there.
Frame materials
The materials out of which your window frame and sash are going to be built is the next thing you need to choose. The two most popular ways to go these days are wood and vinyl. There are also aluminum windows, but they’re not nearly as energy-efficient so you should avoid them. Especially if you’re in the process of buying your first home.
Wood windows are beautiful and have the best insulating properties on the market. However, they need proper maintenance to keep that efficiency.
On the other hand, vinyl windows are growing in popularity simply because they’re virtually maintenance-free. They provide solid insulation and are reasonably priced. So, these should be the ones you should look into first.
Window glass
And the last thing you need to do is choosing the type of glass for your windows. There are many things to choose from here. You get to choose not only the number of panes but also the distance between them.
Some special options you can go for are low emissivity glass that keeps more heat out, and impact-resistant glass. Both of these will cost significantly more than your average window, but if you need it – you need it. And that’s exactly how to choose the right type of windows for your home.