First, let us look at the types available. Single hung windows are windows where the top or bottom only opens. These are not in use as much now days, but are cheaper than other types. Double hung windows are windows that open top and bottom. These are popular and moderately priced. Horizontal sliders open from either side left or right. These types of windows are perfect for larger sized windows but are more expensive. Then you have the tilting windows, top and bottom tilt in for easier cleaning.
Window Replacement Considerations
When considering what kind of windows you would like, also keep in mind the types of glass you want as well. Glass type can play a significant role in lowering energy bills and lowering homeowners insurance as well. Thirty years ago, there were only single panes, which allowed cold or hot air inside. If that broke, you would just do some window glass replacement. Now days we have double and triple panes that are great for helping to insulate your home. Keep in mind when ordering your windows that the extra weight will affect the price of the windows.
If you want to add privacy to your home, decorative glass is a great way to go, but is slightly more expensive. The most popular type of glass to date is the low-e glass. This type of glass can dramatically lower your energy bills by trapping the heat inside the glass. It also reflects the sun light, which is great for your furniture and carpets. You want to go with tempered glass for added security. The design of this glass is to crack instead of shatter. If someone hits your window with a baseball, you will not have shards of glass flying all over your furniture and floors.
You also have different types of framing, if you decide not to keep you existing framework. Metal or aluminum frames conduct heat rapidly, so may not be the right choice if trying to save energy. A composite frame consists of composite wood products like particleboard. It is stable and resists moisture better than traditional wood. Vinyl frames have good insulating value. It does not require a lot of maintenance, but will warp at high temperatures and crack at low temperatures. Wood replacement windows also have excellent insulation value as well, but requires the most maintenance out of all of the frames.
Another thing to think about with the vinyl replacement windows is that you can choose a color that matches your home. If you are going this route, remember that the outside color may fade over time. Vinyl windows have air carriers inside and when filled with insulation this doubles you energy savings. Wood frames need to be scraped and painted once a year to insure that the wood does not rot. Wood also expands and shrinks according to weather conditions.
When deciding on window replacements ask yourself the question, why do I want to buy replacement windows? Do you want to upgrade your home? Do you like the windows that you currently have and want the same style window? Do you want to be more energy efficient? Do you want a room with more natural sunlight? Do you like the look of traditional wood or the convenience of maintenance free vinyl? Do you want the added cost of professional installation? On the other hand, can you do it yourself?
It is important when making the choice to replace your windows to look at all factors. Even a seemingly small detail can affect the price of your new windows. When ordering your new windows, keep in mind that the heavier they are, the more they cost. The best replacement windows are going to be more costly but will help save energy in your home and will be easier to maintain in the long run. Replacement window cost is something that will need to be thought through. Do you have the money to do this upfront to save you energy costs in the years to come? Do your windows all need to be replaced badly enough that it warrants doing them all at once? If this is the case, springing for the better replacement windows may just be the best choice for you.
