Things To Consider Before
Replacing The Windows In Your Home
Chicago Window Replacement Contractor
Windows are extremely important to your home for many reasons. First of all, their style sets the tone for the appearance of your home’s exterior. Windows also have critical functional purposes, protecting your family from unwanted intruders and harsh weather conditions. Choosing the right windows can also save you money on your energy bills, by providing ventilation and insulation.
Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors offers our Chicago customers a wide selection of different window styles from some of the top manufacturers in the industry. How do you decide which window is best for you? Here are some things to consider:
Signs That it’s Time to Get New Windows
- You want to give your home a new look or increase its resale value.
- Your windows do not meet fire codes or do not provide adequate protection from possible intruders.
- You want to save money on your energy bills.
- Your old windows have damages, such as cracks, faded colors or dents.
- Your old windows would require a lot of money and time to fix.
Types of Windows
When choosing the type of window that is best for your home, it is important to consider the look, operating style and energy efficiency you want. There are also several shapes and security factors to think about. Not only do your home’s windows affect its architectural style, but they can also save energy, provide light and ventilation, and regulate the temperature of a room.
To serve a wide variety of tastes and needs, windows are available in several types and sizes that operate and function differently. Here are some common window types:
Double-Hung Windows: Common window style that opens by sliding the bottom sash up or the top sash down. Double-hung windows allow good control of ventilation.
Single-Hung Windows: Similar in operation to double-hung windows, but only the bottom sash opens.
Casement Windows: Hinges on one side and swings out or in when you turn a crank. Provide excellent ventilation and energy efficiency because both sides are sealed tightly when closed. Casement windows are also used for egress windows for fire safety.
Awning Windows: Hinges at the top and tilts out at the bottom. Awning windows are usually used for ventilation above a door or window.
Bay and Bow Windows: A bay window usually consist of three joined windows, while a bow window can be made up of four or more window units joined together to form a curve.
Sliding Windows: Consists of sashes that move horizontally on a track; usually one side moves while the other is fixed. Provides ventilation from the opened sash and is weather tight when shut.
Tilt-Turn Windows: Operated by tilting into a room. They allow for good ventilation, are easy to clean and are ideal emergency exits.
Rotating Windows: Open by pivoting around a central point. They provide good ventilation and are easy to clean.
Circlehead or Roundtop Windows: Accent windows designed to be placed above other windows or doors. These provide light but not ventilation.
Window Frames
Choosing the correct window frame for your home requires thinking about the style you want and your practical needs. You need to consider various materials, finishes and styles. Also consider your budget and the maintenance required for keeping each window frame in good shape.
If your window frames can be opened for ventilation, they must also close tightly and securely to prevent intrusion. Also, different window frames have differing degrees of durability when dealing with weather elements such as rain and wind. Window frames can also provide various benefits for energy efficiency in your home.
There are different types of window frame materials to choose from. Read on for common frame materials and their characteristics.
Material Pros and Cons:
Aluminum Frames:
- Strong and light weight.
- Require little maintenance and very durable.
- Do not rust, rot or absorb water.
- Resistant to warping.
- Less expensive than wood and composite frames.
- Conduct heat very rapidly; leads to poor insulation.
- Subject to condensation.
- Long-lasting.
- Can become cold to the touch; reduces energy efficiency.
Vinyl Frames:
- Very strong.
- Good insulation.
- Little maintenance — do not require painting.
- Resistant to water.
- Can be custom sized to fit inside existing window opening
- Fewer color options than other types of windows.
- Stronger frame material allow for thicker, heavier insulated glass units
- Most top end vinyl windows come with lifetime warranties
Wood Frames:
- Most aesthetically pleasing and traditional choice.
- Highly energy efficient.
- Durable and strong.
- Can be made in any color.
- Sensitive to weather conditions; can expand.
- Require a lot of maintenance to keep them in good shape.
- Expensive compared to some other frame materials.
- Fewer replacement installation options, generally require a full frame installation.
- Need staining or painting every three to five years.
- Annual maintenance is recommended to increase frames life span.
Composite Frames:
- Resistant to cracking, peeling and splitting.
- Very stable and durable.
- Filling air cavities results in superior thermal performance.
- Good resistance to weather elements.
- Expensive because they are new to the market.
- Limited colors and styles compared to other frame materials.
Steel Frames:
- Most durable and weather resistant window frame material.
- Likely to outlast any other material.
- Very heavy.
- Subject to rust.
- Few manufacturers’ options compared to other frame materials.
- Expensive.
- Generally not used in residential homes.
Conclusion
Since choosing the right windows and doors is very important to your home, learn all you can to make educated decisions. Here we provide you with information about both functional and aesthetic options offered in window and door products.
