Adding or updating windows to your home
Jan21Written by:
1/21/2009 10:04 PM
Updating or adding new windows is always a sound home improvement investment. New energy-efficient windows will eventually pay themselves off, as heating and cooling bills will be noticeably less expensive.
New windows will also increase your home’s curb appeal and property value.
For the best results, it is always wise to hire a professional to measure and install your windows; it is also a good idea to consult with a professional to have a clear picture of the different styles available on the market according to the budget available.
First, you must decide what material you want your windows constructed with. You can choose from:
Wood
- most popular for the parts of the window seen on the inside
- must be painted or stained to avoid rotting or warping
Clad-wood
- wood on the inside but vinyl or aluminum on the outside
- maintenance-free
Aluminum
- more durable than wood
- easier to handle than wood
Vinyl
- made from PVC
- hollow spaces to reduce heat loss and condensation
Secondly, you must choose what style of windows you are looking for. You should know about the style of your home and how each window should function in its location – consulting with a professional will make this task very easy. There are six basic styles:
Picture - does not open
Gliding - 2 sashes, one which glides horizontally past the other
Single or double-hung - one or two vertically sliding sashes in one frame
Casemement - sash that cranks outward
Awning - hinged at the top, opens outward
Bay or Bow - three or more windows projecting out from a room
Lastly, you must decide on the glazing, which is the glass in your window. Today’s standard is a double-pane window which provides better energy efficiency than the traditional one-pane glass window. There is also a triple-pane glass option which is more expensive, heavier and far less common.
Whichever window you choose, take the time to make sure it reflects your taste. Consider consulting with an expert that would help you design the look that you have in mind. New windows are an investment that will keep giving back to your pocketbook each year.