How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Home

High-quality windows are a guarantee of comfort in winter and energy efficiency at any time of the year. That is why we do not recommend saving on window systems if you want to reduce energy consumption. Modern systems can keep more heat inside the room and significantly reduce heating costs, and this is not the only advantage of contemporary solutions. 

But before you replace your windows, you need to plan every detail, such as what your budget is and what style of system you want. It is also recommended that you contact a window replacement specialist to get a truly energy-efficient solution. Artan specialists will help you at every step. Let’s find out how to choose replacement windows.

Assess Your Needs

First, consider your wishes when selecting replacement windows for home. One of the most important things when choosing window systems is their design and technical characteristics. Of course, the priority is to reduce energy costs and increase the level of comfort in your home. You should also make sure that the materials are reliable, durable, and able to resist of various weather conditions.

Window Materials

When you think about replacement windows for home it is important to pay attention to the quality of the materials used. That will ensure the durability of the construction and make your home more comfortable at any time of the year. Experts advise taking into account the strength, thermal insulation and resistance to weather conditions. Durability is also one of the main criteria for choosing materials. High-quality windows and doors use wear-resistant materials. They are resistant to ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes, and other unfavorable conditions. 

Wooden, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum frames are the most popular options. Obviously, these types of windows for homes have their pros and cons. 

1. Wood. Wood is one of the best window materials. The key advantage of wooden windows is their naturalness and eco-friendly. Besides, there is a wide variety of design options - you can choose different colors, which is impossible with plastic frames. However, it is important to note that wooden windows are expensive and require careful maintenance and periodic repainting or varnishing.
2. Aluminum windows seem to be more affordable compared to the wooden ones. This material is cheap, easy to process, and has great heat and sound insulation. Also, this option has low thermal insulation compared to other materials. The construction needs extra insulating inserts.
3. Vinyl. Vinyl frames are resistant to moisture, corrosion, and rot. They have low maintenance requirements — just clean them with soap and water. The good insulating properties are particularly interesting. They help keep the house warm. However, some users of vinyl windows are unhappy with the limited styles and colors. They are also concerned about UV damage.
4. Fiberglass. This material is great when it comes to resisting sudden temperature changes. It does not expand or contract. Such windows are almost maintenance-free. They resist damage and corrosion. Their high-level insulation helps save energy. But the only drawback is the high cost of such structures. 

To choose really best window materials, seek expert advice. Artan will help you choose the best options for your home.

Window Styles

If you do not know how to choose replacement windows, or which style to choose, there are several important recommendations. Window style is both about the shape of the opening and the color palette. The opening's shape (a niche for plastic windows in homes and high-rises) determines the look of PVC structures. The most common option is the classic rectangular shape, which is considered standard. However, there are also non-standard solutions. These include arched, trapezoidal, triangular, polygonal, and oval windows. They add originality and aesthetic appeal to the room.

You should design the future window based on the opening's size. As for the choice of color, there are no special rules, it all depends on your preferences. You can choose a color that imitates the texture of wood or a classic white version. The palette is very wide and it will not be difficult to choose a color. However, you must consider the building's overall design. The windows should look harmonious.

Energy Efficiency

The trend of energy efficiency is gaining popularity worldwide. As utility costs rise, many people are trying to make their homes more energy-efficient. Windows are one of the main sources of heat loss in buildings. To cut down losses and save energy, we must have energy-efficient windows. They should not compromise comfort. Energy-efficient windows can lower electricity bills.

To choose truly energy-efficient replacement windows for home, it is important to consider their design. The profile is the main element that prevents outside heat and cold. Therefore, to ensure maximum energy efficiency, the window profile should be wide enough. The number of chambers also plays an important role.

In addition, you should be aware of the key indicators when selecting energy-efficient windows. These are the U-factor, solar heat gain (SHGC), and Energy Star rating.

• The U-factor is an indicator that determines how well a window prevents heat loss. The lower the U-factor, the more efficiently the window retains heat in the room.
• SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) is the coefficient of solar energy transmission through glass. The lower the SHGC, the less heat from the sunlight rays gets inside, which is especially important in hot climates.
• Energy Star is a certificate that indicates the high energy efficiency of a product.

If the windows comply with these criteria, they are energy efficient and minimize heat loss in winter and excessive heating in summer.

Modern heat-saving windows have the following optimal characteristics:

• Frame and sash thickness - 70 to 86 mm. This allows for using thicker, energy-saving double-glazed windows, 40-53 mm thick.
• Number of air chambers - 5 or 6.

Glazing Options

Do you often hear unnecessary noise? New double or triple-glazed windows filled with argon reduce outside noise. This is essential if you live in a noisy neighborhood. To choose the right window system, you need to consider the conditions in which it will be used. Different window glazing options include:

• Single-chamber. This is the most affordable option, consisting of two panes and one chamber. Such solutions are suitable for unheated rooms such as loggias, balconies, or gazebos.
• Double-chamber is the most popular choice. Such structures consist of three panes and two chambers. They are better suited for heated rooms: apartments, houses, offices, and industrial facilities.
• Three-chamber windows. This option can rarely be found in U.S. houses or apartments, due to excessive functionality. They have four glasses and three chambers. They are ideal for harsh climates.
• Extended windows with high energy efficiency and excellent sound insulation. They are installed in window systems with a profile width of 70 mm or more.

Additional Features

When you think about replacement windows for home, pay attention to additional options.

For example, you can install windows with:

1. Better burglary protection.
2. Child locks.
3. Sun-protective, double-glazed, multifunctional glass.

These extra features are often cheap but they can greatly boost your home's comfort and safety, even with old, simple three-pane windows.

You can also choose double-glazed windows with extra features. They improve thermal insulation and noise protection.

Budget Considerations

You should also always keep your budget in mind. Don't go for the promotions — this is one of the most common mistakes when choosing windows. Pay attention only to the total cost of the entire order, including all discounts.

Installation

When you know how to choose replacement windows, it remains to figure out the installation. There are several ways to install windows. It depends on the building, window type, and the owners' preferences. Standard installation means fixing the window frame. Then, fill the seam with foam. However, this method does not provide for the protection of the installation seam. Our specialists use methods that don't affect the systems' energy efficiency.

Conclusion

Replacement windows for home will affect the comfort and safety. To avoid making mistakes, you should act reasonably and carefully. It's better to consult professionals. They can give you the best advice on choosing and replacing these elements. Artan will help you with replacement windows for home. We ensure our products are durable and energy-efficient. And thanks to our wide range of types of windows for homes, you can find the perfect solution that will emphasize the style of your home.