How do people go about purchasing replacement windows? When you are renovating or building a new home the choices are plentiful and windows are no different. How do you sort through all the information you are given and make an educated decision based on anything other than the style? With windows it is pretty simple; your checklist will include window types, style option and energy efficiency.
The materials windows are made out of differ greatly. Aluminum, wood and vinyl all have qualities that are good and bad. When looking into the material you would like your replacement windows to be constructed out of think about the style of your home, maintenance of the material, energy efficiency and your budget. Aluminum windows might not be the best option in the north with cold windows and wood windows are easily damaged in intense heat so the region in which your home is also affects the material used for your windows.
Types of windows vary also. Casement, awning, double and single hung and sliding windows are amongst the options for you to choose from. Casement windows are beautiful. They window swings open using a crank mechanism and are often used in larger windows such as bay windows. Awning windows open from the bottom and are pushed out connecting the window to the frame at the top. These windows are often seen in kitchen and bathrooms. Single and double hung windows slide open vertically. These windows have the option of folding out for ease in cleaning. Sliding windows slide horizontally.
Budgeting plays a large role in choosing replacement windows. Wood is generally more expensive than aluminum and vinyl. Along with being more expensive wood windows require more maintenance. They must be stained and sealed to prevent the wood from warping. Vinyl windows are virtually maintenance free. This is a selling point for many homeowners because maintenance and homeownership already do together like two peas in a pod.
Where you live plays a huge role in the materials and glass you will choose for your windows home. Homes in moist areas prone to storms and the abuse of salty air need to meet different requirements than an environment with four seasons.
It is also wise to think about privacy in regards to your new windows. An option other than tinted windows is replacement windows with blinds between the glass. These windows are becoming popular in many homes because of privacy but also the extra efficiency they provide and the convenience of being low maintenance.
Look at the warranties and what is covered under them with each individual window company you get a quote thru. This may sway you in one direction or another. Warranties can save you a lot of money, time and hassle when it comes to getting a replacement window fixed. However, for a warranty to be valid regular maintenance needs to be done. This will keep the warranty intact and your windows looking new for many years to come.