Are you working on a building project that needs windows? Or do you think it is time for your old building to get new windows? Whatever the reasons are, there are important things You Should Know Before Buying New Windows that will be best for your project.
Aside from your budget, there are other important factors that are worthy of consideration. This article will reveal things you need to know when purchasing new windows. First, let us see when you need to get them.
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When to Get a New Window
If your old window frame is still functioning properly, you might see no need to go for new ones. A high-quality frame will hardly wear or crack under pressure, so choosing to change it could be a waste of money. Then, when should one get a new window?
Apart from personal preferences, you can change a window when:
- It becomes broken or warped.
- Your home needs remodeling.
- A severe weather event just occurred, and it damaged your window.
- You are renovating for sale.
- You want to reduce energy bills because your old window is not an energy-saving model.
Remember, changing your window can alter the architectural design and indoor aesthetics of your house.
What to Consider Before Buying a New Window
Here are six important things to keep in mind:
1. Material
Before looking for an aesthetic window or an energy-efficient one, you need to know the material it is made of. This is one of the most serious factors to research before making a choice. Whichever material you go for must be hard, sturdy, and long-lasting.
It should also provide enough insulation to your house. Some common materials used are:
- Vinyl
- Fiberglass
- Aluminum
- Wood
Fiberglass is a strong and diverse material. Many new homeowners prefer it because it can copy the appearance of other materials especially wood. It is more expensive than others and stronger than vinyl.
Aluminum is mostly used in business buildings or apartments. But because it has poor insulation properties, it has fallen out of the favor of many homeowners.If on the other hand, you want a shiny and sleek-looking window, then you should go for vinyl. It doesn’t need coating or painting, and it has insulating properties that allow it to save energy.
Wooden material is the favorite of many homeowners. It is natural and has been used for many centuries. It is durable, sturdy, and offers an aesthetic value.
Whatever choice you make depends on the design and age of your house. Wood is a good option for old homes with vintage architectural designs. For modern homes built a few decades ago, vinyl or fiberglass is a more suitable choice.
2. Glazing
Quality glazing is important in the design of a window. Double and triple-glazed windows ensure that your home does not use up a lot of energy. This will in turn reduce your energy bills. Double glazing Bristol has energy efficient windows that ensure the warmth stays inside your home and is not wasted radiating out of your windows.
Low emissivity glass can reduce heat transfer into your home. Also, laminated glass can reduce noise and improve home security. The more glazing, the better the insulation. You may want to check out this Worcester double glazing company to find a professional team that will help you choose befitting windows for your building.
3. Style
Various styles provide varying insulation degrees. Windows can come in styles that either slide horizontally or vertically, or one that tilts from the bottom, top, or side. Some common styles include:
- Single-hung
- Double-hung
- Casement
- Awning
- Sliding
- Hopper
- Bay
- Bow
- Custom
- Fixed
Many homeowners prefer hung and sliding options. Sliding styles tend to offer a great amount of natural light into the home. They are also less expensive and require little maintenance.
However, since sliding stops halfway, ventilation is a downside of such styles. Casement, bay, and hopper styles offer more ventilation and have an air-tight seal that offers security from intruders.
4. Energy-Efficiency
Professionals refer to energy efficiency as“R-value”. A high R-value means greater insulation power. Single glazed windows have a low R-value in comparison with double or triple ones.
An energy-efficient window will ensure your home remains comfortable throughout the varying weather conditions. During summer, it will block out heat from penetrating into your home, thereby, making the interior cool.
Also, when it is windy or snowy, it can help to block the cold and bring in warmth. If you want an energy-efficient window, go for multiple glazed ones. They are better at UV-protection and indoor temperature regulation. You can click here to learn more about how windows can affect energy efficiency.
5. Property Landscaping and Architectural Design
When choosing a new window, you need to consider the layout and landscape of your property. If you live in a semi-crowded neighborhood and you do not want peering eyes, tinted windows are a good option for you. If you live around trees and you donot want leaves obstructing your view, you can choose sliding or hung window styles.
Also, consider your interior designs and the position of your photos and furniture in the living room. If you want to protect these possessions from harmful sun rays, get windows with proper UV-protection.
6. Safety
Safety is an important issue especially for households with young children. Single-hung windows are dangerous to leave open if there are little children in your home. Also, a window that has a bad lock will put your home at risk of unwanted guests.
Therefore, you need to install tempered glass on windows close to the floor. And ensure you get durable windows that will not damage easily and can lock properly.
Conclusion
Windows are important features in a house. They allow sun rays into the home and provide an outdoor view from the inside. They also bring out the aesthetic value of your indoor designs. Aside from these, they provide security and block UV-penetration, wind, bugs, and break-ins.
The importance of windows is a good reason why getting the right one is vital. Therefore, to protect your home and ensure the comfort of your family, you need to install durable windows.
