Windows have a significant impact on your entire home, both inside and outside. They improve your home’s curb appeal by adding some style to the home. The windows you install also affect the overall feel of your home. Some windows are suitable for ventilation, others allow a lot of light into the house, and others are good for unobstructed views.
When buying replacement windows, consider other factors like the window material and type of glazing. Knowing in which direction you want the windows to open is also important. There are many things you have to consider when choosing windows. From windows prices to window replacement styles, the entire process can be overwhelming for most homeowners when choosing windows for their houses.
1. Double Hung Vs. Single Hung
Double and single-hung windows are prevalent. The two resemble in all other ways except in the number of operable sashes. A double-hung window has two operable sashes, while a single hung has one operable sash. The movable sashes make it easier to clean the windows.
For double-hung windows, open by moving the lower sash upwards and the top sash downwards. In single-hung windows, only the lower sash moves. You can buy the windows with double or triple panes for more energy efficiency.
2. Slider Windows
Slider windows have two sashes that open on the opposite sides. The left sash slides to the right while the right one moves to the left side of the track. The windows make the wall look wider if it is tall. They are also energy-efficient, and you can get them in energy-efficient window materials like wood, vinyl, and fiberglass.
3. Casement Windows
These windows are for homeowners who have outside space where the window can open. The window cranks open to the outside like a double door. Casement windows are also standard because of their energy efficiency, providing unobstructed views and ventilation. The windows also offer security because of the multi-point locking system.
4. Picture Windows
If you are looking for window replacement units that will help you connect to the outside, then this is your right pick. If your house faces a beautiful garden, forest, or ocean, a picture window is your ideal window type. These windows are inoperable, requiring you to have another type of windows like casement or sliding.
The windows allow sufficient light into the house, and they are common because of the unobstructed views. When buying, get a picture window with double or triple-paned glass. It is more energy-efficient and harder to break, hence increased security.
5. Awning Windows
They are a common type in houses located in rainy climates. Awning windows have hinges at the top, and they open from the bottom upwards. When they open, they create an awning shape that can shield the house from rainwater. When buying, choose ones with double or triple panes.
6. Choose A Window Style That Is Easy To Clean
Double and single-hung windows are the most effortless window styles to clean. They have tiltable sashes, which you can easily clean the inside and outside. This feature is the most common characteristic of the windows people know. Slider windows are also easy to clean. They have two operable sashes. You can clean the sashes of each side simultaneously. Since they are both open, you can also easily reach the outer and inner parts of the sashes.
Casement window replacement units can open fully, and although these windows are installed in taller buildings, they are also easy to clean. When cleaning windows, choose a less sunny and less windy day. Cleaning them when the sun is too hot will be difficult because the soapy water dries faster before rinsing the window.
7. Consider Energy Efficiency
Picture windows are the most energy-efficient windows because they are fixed. However, when buying, it is also essential to consider other factors that add energy efficiency. For example, choose a picture window from energy-efficient materials like wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. You can also get one with double or triple panes.
Casement windows are also energy efficient because they close tightly. This gives a tight seal against air exchange. Also, consider buying casement window replacement units made with energy-efficient materials like wood and vinyl.
