Your windows and doors are an essential aspect of your home. They talk more about your home as they’re the first things outsiders see when approaching your home. Old windows can create a negative impression of your home, thus affecting its value. They can also cause energy inefficiency, increasing your monthly energy bills. Furthermore, they can compromise your home’s security by making it an easy target for thieves.
Therefore, selecting the right windows should be your priority. However, choosing the right window isn’t easy. You must consider various factors, including window type, size, shape, style, and functionality. To guide you, this article discusses how you can pick the right windows for your home. Keep reading!
Familiarize The Different Window Types
The first step to picking the right window for your home is figuring out the different window types. This way, you’ll know the options most suitable for your home, both in aesthetics and functionality.
There are many types of windows to choose from, thus making the process challenging. To help you get started, here are the main types of windows:
- Double-Hung Windows: These are the most common types of windows with two sashes that can both be opened for better ventilation. These are also available in sliding styles. These windows are suitable for people with kids or pets as the top sash can be open while the bottom one remains closed. With this window type, having blinds or shades can be an excellent choice.
- Single-Hung Windows: Known as a single sash window, it has two sashes, but only the lower one is movable; the upper one is fixed—suitable for small rooms that require just enough ventilation.
- Awning Windows: This type of window has hinges at the top of the frame and is opened outwards from the bottom. They’re suitable for rooms that need more ventilation and light. Awnings provide high privacy as they’re installed higher on the walls.
- Casement Windows: A casement window has hinges on the sides and opens to the left or right. These are suitable for rooms that need maximum ventilation, like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Picture Windows: A picture window is a window that creates a picture of your surroundings. They’re also called fixed windows as they don’t open. They provide plenty of light but don’t offer ventilation.
Choosing the right window type for your home improves your home’s overall aesthetics and functionality. That said, you can also consider contacting professional window installation Ashburn and replacement services. These professionals can guide you in choosing the best window type and style for your home.
Choose The Right Window Material
Traditionally, almost all window types were made from wood since it was the most preferred and popular material. While wood windows are still in the market, many modern window materials are now available. However, each material has pros and cons, so before settling for a specific material, it’s crucial to consider your home’s style, functionality, material durability, aesthetics, climate, and the amount you’re willing to spend.
Below are the primary window materials to choose from:
- Wood: Wood offers a natural and traditional appearance and is mostly preferred because it’s eco-friendly, durable, and designed in different sizes and shapes. However, it’s prone to rotting and warping, affected by pests like termites, and requires regular maintenance like painting and treatment.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows have gained popularity because of their durability and little maintenance. They can be designed to resemble wood windows, thus giving them an aesthetic edge. They offer maximum insulation, thereby improving energy efficiency in your home. They’re also resistant to water, fading, rotting, corroding, and peeling. However, fiberglass windows are expensive and difficult to install and customize.
- Vinyl: Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Vinyl is of two types; pure vinyl and recycled vinyl. Pure vinyl is stronger and more durable than recycled vinyl but also more expensive. Generally, vinyl is preferred because it’s cheaper, easily maintained, easy to install, and energy efficient. However, it’s available in fewer designs and can’t be painted—limiting color options.
- Aluminum: Aluminum windows are perfect for modern luxury homes. They’re lightweight but very strong. As a result, they can be used in large window spaces as they can hold large glass expanses. They’re preferred because of affordability, customization, durability, and ease of installation. However, since they’re poor insulators, they increase energy inefficiency and are prone to corrosion.
- Clad Wood: A clad wood window consists of wood frames covered with aluminum or fiberglass. They offer a wood appearance without hectic maintenance. They’re durable, aesthetically appealing, and customizable. However, they’re more expensive than other materials, and the cladding can dislodge.
Conclusion
Choosing the right windows for your home can be challenging. This is because the many different types and materials can make it difficult to narrow down your search. As a result, consider the durability, level of maintenance, energy efficiency, and cost before choosing windows for your home. It’s also advisable to have an expert guide you through the process for better results.
