Replacement Windows Information
Whether you want to replace your cold, drafty windows or simply
want to enhance the overall appearance of your home, you will
have to go in for replacement windows even though choosing the
right replacement windows is a burdensome task and involves a
significant investment.
Replacement windows squeeze in air between two panes of glass,
providing a layer between the inside of your home and the
weather outside. Thus, replacement windows insulate your home
from extremes of both hot and cold. And at the same time reduce
your home's energy costs and change its decor.
Replacement windows come in many shapes, sizes, and styles to
match your home. Basically, there are four types of replacement
windows: (i) replacement windows add light and style to your
home; (ii) skylights brighten the room and add an interesting
design element; (iii) sliding doors are another form of
replacement windows; and (iv) the slider helps you save on
energy, especially in summer, because you can leave the screened
portion open.
Before you buy replacement windows, you need to decide how you
want them to open. Again you have various choices, such as: (a)
casement windows with vertical hinges that swing in or out by
winding a handle; (b) double or single hung types made of two
cases that slide up and down; (c) sliding windows that move
horizontally; and (d) plain fixed form windows that don't open
at all, but let the light come in.
You also need to see how your replacement windows have been
fabricated to make sure they match with the architecture of your
home and provide maximum insulation. You can now choose from
some recent manufacturing developments like vinyl and fiberglass
that are highly insulating.
Vinyl windows are a popular and economical alternative to
aluminum, wood, and fiberglass, because they are energy
efficient, easy to install, and effortless to maintain. Made
from a plastic called polyvinyl chloride, or PVC they provide a
superb degree of insulation. Moreover, they require practically
no maintenance because their durable surfaces are already
stained, finished, and sealed. The exterior casing of vinyl
windows doesn't fade or wear under ultraviolet sunlight, making
them far more durable than aluminum or wood.
For the purpose of energy efficiency, you can go in for
triple-pane windows that have three pieces of glass with layers
of air between them. Air absorbs heat and cold much better than
glass. You can further reduce air conditioning and heating costs
if you replace the air with a gas called argon. While shopping
for replacement windows, visit many showrooms and make sure that
the window is 'user friendly'. Try it out to see if it opens and
closes with ease. You must remove all your doubts before
scheduling an installation. Also, look for certification
information from the National Fenestration Rating Council to
compare the energy efficiency of each brand and style of window.
Don't forget to see the actual warranty before making your
purchase and understand all the details.
Replacement windows involve heavy expenditure, so it is
important you make an informed and confident decision based on
the needs of your house, the kind of windows to be replaced, and
your budget constraints.