One of the worst things about having old windows is how you have to fuss over them. They’re hard to clean, tough to open, and difficult to keep from leaking. When you decide to replace the windows in your Dayton home, you have the opportunity to select windows that require a lot less fussing. But what qualities make for a fuss-free window? Take a look.
Advanced Opening and Closing Mechanisms
Old wooden windows are a pain to open and close. Most older single-hung windows only open from the bottom, and once the wood starts wearing down, you have to lift pretty hard to get the window to budge. In the case of sliding windows, friction along the track builds as the window ages, and eventually, sliding the window can feel like a workout.
New double-hung windows open from both the top and the bottom, which gives you a safety option when opening windows around children and pets. Even when you do open the window from the bottom, you should only have to lift up gently; the window will glide upward in the smooth tracks. Sliding windows now often come with roller-type mechanisms that allow them to glide open with far less friction in the track. New casement windows are easier to open than ever, too, thanks to well-lubricated and structured hinges.
Low-Maintenance Materials
Are you tired of always having to scrub to get your window frames clean — and then scrape and paint them every few years to protect them from moisture damage? New window materials make for far less maintenance and fuss. Replacement windows made from Fibrex® never require staining or painting. You can simply wipe the Fibrex sash or frame clean with a damp cloth, and it looks brand new.
When shopping for fuss-free windows, be sure to stay away from vinyl. While often advertised as a low-maintenance option, it is not very durable. Especially in a varied climate like that of Dayton, the vinyl may contract and expand, causing it to crack and leak.
UV-Blocking Glass
Do you find yourself always having to close the blinds so your carpet and decor do not become bleached from the sunlight? Replacement windows can be fitted with UV-blocking glass, like Andersen’s SmartSun™ glass. This glass lets in plenty of sunshine, but it specifically blocks the UV rays. You can leave your window treatments open and bathe in the sunlight without the worry of damage to your home or your skin.
Easy-Clean Construction
Cleaning windows on your Dayton home can be an all-consuming task when you have old windows. First you clean the insides, and then you have to climb up on a ladder to reach the outsides of the windows. New, fuss-free windows solve this problem. Modern windows fold inward so you can stand inside your home and wipe the outsides clean. That means no more dragging out the ladder and hoping you don’t fall while performing necessary window maintenance.
In addition to looking for the qualities above, make sure the windows you buy come with a good warranty. That way, if anything does go wrong, you do not have to fuss with paying for repairs or a replacement.Contact Renewal by Andersen to schedule a free consultation in your Dayton home, and learn more about our high-quality, no-fuss replacement windows.
