Replacement Windows

Replacing your home’s original windows with newer versions can make your home look better, feel more comfortable and increase its value.

Choosing replacement windows can be a daunting choice because there are so many from which to choose. There are dozens of window manufacturers and many different qualities of windows available. Thus, replacement windows come in a wide variety of prices.

Vinyl replacement windows are the most popular choice today. These windows are low maintenance and long lasting. Higher end models even look like wood. Vinyl replacement windows come with grids inside the glass and offer a tilt in feature that allows for easy cleaning. However, you can also find replacement windows in aluminum, fiberglass and wood. There are many features to choose from that can help you choose windows that will complement the style of your home and provide energy efficiency. Here are two of the mist important decisions you’ll be asked to make when choosing your replacement windows:

Style – You can find windows that will very closely match your original windows, or you can go with a totally different look. You can choose windows with sculptured or flat grids (flat grids will save you money) or you can choose windows with no grids at all. You can replace two side by side windows with one single window that slides, or make a single picture window from two side by side windows. You can choose white windows or wood tone windows. To minimize the number of choices, first make the decision as to whether you want to match your current look or change it.

Energy Efficiency – All replacement windows should provide you with an increase in energy efficiency over your old original windows. However, you can buy higher or lower end windows that provide higher or lower levels of energy efficiency. The more energy efficiency they provide, the more they’ll cost. You should look for windows with two panes of glass and an argon gas chamber between them. Higher end windows will have thicker panes of glass and a wider argon gas chamber between the panes. In addition, higher end windows will have better construction. You can have any vinyl replacement windows foam wrapped, and I recommend that you do so. Foam wrapping adds just a few dollars per window and helps ensure that the windows fit more tightly into place, reducing draft. At any rate, look for windows with the Energy Star rating. This ensures that your windows meet government energy efficiency guidelines. Choosing Energy Star windows will also get you a break on your taxes in the year you have them installed.

Replacement windows are a great way to add beauty, value and energy efficiency to your home.