You’ve decided to replace your old windows with new, energy-efficient windows. Great choice! Over time, the energy you save will pay for itself. But it’s just the beginning of a number of choices you’ll make when getting new windows. Allow us to guide you through the process.
Design
There are a wide variety of window frames and glass to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your home. Aluminum and metal frames conduct heat poorly, while vinyl and fiberglass frames can be filled with insulation to improve energy efficiency. Wooden frames require regular maintenance and expand and contrast depending on the weather, so your best choice when going in that direction may be a composite frame.
Depending on the location of the windows in your house, several glass and coating options are available to suit your needs. Heat-absorbing tints help absorb solar rays, while low-emissivity coatings can reduce energy loss as much as 50 percent.
Type and Brand
Once you know the kind of window you want installed in your house, it’s time to pick the specific brand. Unsurprisingly, a plethora of options vie for your attention. One key aspect to look for is the window’s energy efficiency rating, a composition of all energy-related aspects of the window that simplifies measuring its performance. Choosing between different types of windows, such as awning, sliding, double-hung, casement and fixed windows also affects its energy efficiency.
Contractor
By now, you’ve probably realized that even after deciding to go for energy efficient windows, choosing the perfect ones for your house can be quite an involved process. So it’s important to find the right contractor for the job – someone you can trust to help you make the best decision not for their business, but for your home. Do your research on local contractors, utilizing resources such as Angie’s List to read reviews of past work. And whether you’re ready to get those windows installed or just need some more advice on the process, contact us! We’ll be happy to help.
