How to select the best windows for your home
Finding the perfect window for your home can be tough, especially when you have so many options to choose from. To choose the best option for your needs, you should consider factors like material type, window style, frame type, energy efficiency, and cost.
This handy guide covers the best window options, so you can pick the right one for your home.
Consider the following factors when weighing replacement window options.
Price
When selecting a replacement window, make sure to have a set budget in mind. Window prices usually range from $200 to $2500, depending on the type of frame material and window style you choose.
The most common window frames include:
Wooden frame: These are generally expensive, but they offer exceptional aesthetic value. With proper maintenance, these windows can last for years while offering excellent thermal insulation to help you save on energy costs.
Vinyl frame: Vinyl frames are cheaper than wooden frames and resistant to moisture. These frames are available in different shapes and sizes, but most of them cannot be painted.
However, there is a range of stock colours that you can choose from to match the window with your home’s aesthetic.
Composite frame: Composite frames are the least expensive of the three frame options. Comprised of fiberglass or organic materials, these frames are strong and energy-efficient. Similar to other frames, composite frames are available in different sizes and shapes.
When selecting replacement windows, you should also factor in installation costs, which can range from $300 to $2,000 per window, including labour charges.
Features
Consider the following features to ensure your window replacements are in line with your upgrade requirements:
Window design: Double-hung is the most popular window design, featuring two sashes that can move up and down. These windows often come with tilt-in sashes so that you can tilt the moving part of the window for easy cleaning.
Other design options include single-hung, casement type, and awning-style, all of which come with different operating mechanisms and structure designs.
Glass panes: You should also consider the number of glass panes needed for adequate insulation. Most brands offer double-pane glass filled with argon gas that improves the insulating properties of the window.
You can also get triple-pane glass which costs more but is ideal for those living in extremely cold regions. The three glass layers also dampen noise.
Energy efficiency: Make sure that the replacement windows you choose are energy-efficient. Look for windows with an Energy Star label to ensure that they meet the minimum standard for insulation defined by your local government.
Customer reviews
One great way to determine the quality of prospective replacement windows is through customer feedback. Most reputable brands provide testimonials about their products on their website. These reviews are a great way to verify the claims made by companies about their products.
Warranties
Warranties are another great way to identify window quality. Some window manufacturers offer a 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on other parts. However, you should also look for windows that offer an option to transfer warranties with the house, so that if and when you sell, the new owner receives peace of mind.
Many brands and independent dealers also offer installation warranties, so if anything goes wrong within the warranty period, your repair costs are covered.
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This article via Freshome does not constitute advice; readers should seek independent and personalised counsel from a trusted adviser that specialises in property, a tax accountant and property design specialist.