How to Choose and Buy a New Windows for Home
New window technologies have come a long way, and a new set of windows can make your home much more energy efficient. Here are the key features and styles to consider when purchasing new windows.
Windows are subject to frequent handling and must withstand strong winds, heavy rainfall, icy snow and ice. Over the years, the weather will take its toll on your windows. But here or there, a draft should n’t require a complete window replacement – start by improving the weatherstrip around your window, which should make a huge difference in energy loss.
However, if your windows are damaged and beyond repair (especially if the sash or cladding is damaged by water), then you should consider replacing the window. Damaged windows can lead to major problems with water access to wall cavities and foundations.
Check the condition of the wood windows by tapping the frame with a flat-blade screwdriver to see how soft the wood is. If the end of the screwdriver can be easily inserted into the wood, this is usually a sign of decay.
The first step to buying new windows is to determine your needs, design, budget, and window functions. Buying windows is a major commitment, which means ordering the wrong type will be a costly mistake.
Select materials for windows
New windows are available in wood, aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass. Wooden frames are a frequent choice for renovations and can be bought to match existing windows if you don’t plan on replacing all of them. Wooden window sashes can be replaced to freshen up a draft, but they require a little more maintenance. However, they offer a classic look, so in order for the old house to retain its original style, wooden windows are often the only option.
The window frames are clad in aluminum or vinyl. They are most commonly used in new construction and are secured with flanged nails that fit under the siding. Cladding quality can range from roll-shaped aluminum, carbonated can thickness to extruded aluminum.
Vinyl windows are available in a variety of colors and do not require the same maintenance as wood windows (and do not need to be painted). They don’t look as pretty as wooden windows, but they are cheaper and almost as well insulated. Fiberglass windows are stronger than vinyl, but slightly more expensive.
Choose your glass
There are many window glass options to choose from, but your specific application and location can help make your choice a lot easier.
Single-layer glazing is in most cases obsolete and is only suitable in very mild climates or in outbuildings. Double glazed windows have a sealed air space between glass layers to reduce heat loss. They are available in several options with improved insulating properties, includinglow-E glass with an invisible metal coating on one surface and windows containing an inert gas such as argon for additional insulation.
If you live in colder climates, you may want to consider triple-glazed windows that are sealed with a mixture of gases, including argon or krypton. As with double glass, this gas provides a layer of insulation. A triple-glazed window can save 2-3% on your heating bill compared to a double-glazed window, but it will cost 10-15% more – which should be considered if you are not planning to stay in your home for a long time.
Double and triple glazed windows also provide a good level of soundproofing and are a must in urban areas or homes overlooking busy streets. Better insulated windows are also less likely to cause condensation because the inner pane will be close to room temperature, avoiding the fogging of windows that occurs when warm air meets a cold window surface.
Watch out for energy efficient windows
When you shop, look at the R-values of your windows – they will show the energy efficiency of building materials in insulating materials and windows. Higher R-values mean better insulating properties. A clear single ply window has an R-value of 1, while quality double-pane windows can have an R-value of up to 4.0 when combined with energy efficient gas-filled glass. Triple glazed windows have an R-value of 5-7.
Conversely, the U-factor is the rate at which a window, door, or skylight conducts non-solar heat flux. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient the window, door or skylight is.
And don’t forget, if you’re buying an Energy Star rated window, check out the available tax credits.
The fun part: choose a window style
Choosing a window style can be a personal preference, but it is also a design issue based on what the older home has and how you want the windows to look from the inside. There are several types to consider.
Sash windows
Double-leaf windows turn on hinges located to the side of the window frame, that is, they open like doors. They are usually taller than wide and provide ventilation from top to bottom.
Hinged windows offer an unobstructed view and also look more modern and contemporary.
Double windows
Double sash windows slide up and down to maintain a traditional look. Modern double canopy windows have a spring mechanism instead of the old type of weight and pulley.
Sliding windows
Sliding windows may be less expensive and require little maintenance, but they do not provide adequate ventilation as only half of the window opens. They offer an unobstructed view, just like window frames.
Bay windows
Bay windows make a statement and can help enlarge a room (and feel). They are perfect for breakfast nooks, give the dining room more room to rest, or simply add some space for dogs to rest.
Finally: buy and install Windows
When it finally comes time to buy windows, be sure to check your wall thickness before ordering. Manufacturers adapt the frame jambs to any wall structure. Determine the thickness of your wall by measuring the width of the jamb on your existing door or window.
Pre-hung windows come with ready-made frames and can be inserted in one piece into a rough opening left by an old window. After the old window has been removed, measure the approximate size of the opening and be sure to buy a new window unit that will fit right into the existing opening.
Most good windows need to be ordered several weeks in advance. Do not hesitate about the delivery schedule. It is extremely risky to remove existing windows before delivering new ones. Delays in delivery can leave you with a big hole in the wall of your house with nothing to close it. Be careful to leave old windows in place until new ones appear and you carefully inspect them for damage and dimensions.