Renewal by Andersen of Long Island replacement windows and patio doors are crafted to ensure maximum performance throughout the years you occupy your home. And, while we guarantee the fixtures won’t lose their ability to block air and moisture leaks, designing home windows and patio doors to fit your needs is crucial for satisfaction after the installation. Below are nine tips to help you design your new fixtures like a pro – and make sure our factory builds them exactly the way you wanted.
Tip #1: Plan Ahead
Visit the Renewal by Andersen showroom, or schedule an in-home consultation 3-6 weeks before you want your windows installed. While manufacturing your windows can take up to 8 weeks, or be closer to a month, delivery time varies depending on the time of year, the number of orders already in various stages of build-out, and special design features, such as custom grille patterns and specialty configurations.
Tip #2: Consider What’s Outside
Remember to consider landscaping near windows – the size they are today, and the width and size they will reach during different seasons as the years go by. If you are considering mulling operation windows above, beneath or flanking fixed windows, you want replacement windows that won’t “bump into” shrubbery beyond the glass when opened.
Tip #3: Consider Different Window Styles Based Upon Use & Need
Awning windows, which are hinged at the top, may be a better option if you are positioning accessory windows above a picture window than hung windows, because they have a handle on the bottom of the unit. Casement windows make terrific side windows, especially if you want a window that fully opens to capture a breeze during warm weather.
Tip #4: Consider Room and Occupant Usage Needs
Think about how you will use each room before settling on a style. Some areas have code restrictions about the size of windows in any room that will be used primarily as sleeping quarters. Safety recommendations suggest Long Island homeowners have at least one operable window in every room that is large enough for emergency personnel to climb in, and residents climb through to the outside, in the event of a fire or other emergency that requires a rapid exit via the window. Don’t forget to consider physical capabilities, too. People with arthritis typically need handles that are larger and easy to grasp, so hardware and levers should be easy to reach and use in homes with elderly occupants and those who have physical challenges.
Tip #5: Consider Traffic Patterns & Furniture Placement
Window styles can impact both outdoor and indoor furniture placements. If you have a walkway near your home, choose sliding windows or double-hung replacement windows and gliding patio doors to eliminate interference with traffic patterns or furniture placement on patios.
Tip #6: You Have Many Glass Choices
Many factors influence glass choices. The type of glass you choose can help you protect indoor furniture, artwork and carpeting. And, every room has unique challenges that glass can overcome. For example, the number of hours of direct sunlight a window receives can impact how much heat you gain or lose through a window. Factory applied coatings allow you to reduce (or take advantage of) the amount of natural light that comes in. You can even obscure the view if necessary.
Tip #7: Don’t Forget Design Features Like Color, Hardware and Options
Performance should never trump beauty. Whether you are looking for a stronger glass or a more energy-efficient window style, you can combine frame colors, add grille patterns and select beautiful hardware that reflects your decorating style and complements your architectural features.
Tip #8: You Don’t Have to Stick with the Same Window Style
You don’t always have to replace an existing window with the same color and style. With precise measurements gathered during the home consultation, our expert craftsmen in the factory can build any style window to replace one your already have, with very few exceptions. The choices made during the design phase are yours. If you are concerned about over-sized window units, or building a wall-of-glass, make sure you discuss these options with your window specialist. All questions are welcome and encouraged. Even the hard ones. Our e-book, “The Four Pillars of a Great Replacement Window Experience” is also an excellent place to get answers to questions about individual window components.
Tip #9: Make Sure Your Installers are Trained & Qualified
Although installation is the final step along the journey of updating your home with modern, high-performance replacement windows, it is without a doubt one of the most important processes. A poor installation can damage your new windows, void your warranty and lead to headaches and frustration. That is why we only allow carefully selected, experienced and fully trained professional to install Renewal by Andersen home improvement products – and we guaranteed the process, parts and labor.
From start to finish, Long Island homeowners like you have dozens of choices to make when selecting their replacement windows and patio doors. We invite you to contact us to discuss the journey. It is easy to reach us. Simply fill in the short form on this page, or give us a call at (866) 609-5033 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation in your home.
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows
