Finding the right window for your home can either make or break the entire home design.
Whether you are renovating an existing property or taking on the full construction of your house, new windows are one of the key features to creating an aesthetically pleasing yet energy-efficient home. Energy-efficient homes may be the ultimate goal in updating your windows but one can not overlook the importance of style. Achieving energy efficiency while maintaining style can be achieved by picking the right windows. So, how do you pick the correct window for your project? Well, it’s may not seem like an easy task but don’t panic, let us offer a few tips to get your project going.
Let’s get started, shall we?
Tips for finding the right window for your home
Style of the Window
Without a doubt, choosing the style of a window is the most exciting part but it can also be a nerve-wracking situation. Get it right and the stylish window will improve the exterior décor of your home. However, if you install an inferior window, it will stick out like a sore thumb which might even affect the resale of the house.
More importantly, you need to understand the different styles of windows present today. Each style goes well with certain home design. For instance, a contemporary single storey house goes well with a similarly narrow but vertical window. That said, you will have to check the architectural style of your property as well as the functionality of the window.
There are several styles of windows you can choose from:
• Casements Windows
These types of windows are also referred to as ‘Side hung windows’. The window actually features pivots or hinges that are attached to the upside of the frame. Therefore, the window opens either outwards or inwards along its entire length which is similar to a door.
• Sash Windows
Sash windows are among the best types of windows to have in your modern home. These windows majorly consist of two moving panels also known as ‘sashes’. The sashes are often made of small panes which are held together by glazing bars. In most cases, you will find sash windows in period properties. However, some architects use these windows to bring out a traditional flair in modern properties.
• French Windows
These types of windows operate in a similar manner to the casement windows. That is, the French windows also have a hinge system attached to the frame of the window. The only difference when it comes to French windows is the fact
that they don’t have mullion or central point which creates an even larger opening instead of two smaller ones.
Efficiency
Having an energy-efficient window will not only save you a few bucks on your monthly utility bills but it will also help reduce the emissions needed to heat up your home. Above all, the fact that your home will be energy efficient is a good resale pitch if you ever consider moving from your current home.
Thankfully, with the current technological trends, you can now find windows that are energy efficient. That alone will save you tons of cash that you would otherwise use on humidifiers and electricity bills.
Frame
Most people actually know that a wood frame is less likely to transfer heat or cold compared to an aluminium frame. That’s simply because metals conduct temperature easily than wood. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that wood is the ideal energy-efficient window frame. There’s a range of window frames and each of them has their own set of negative and positive impacts to your home. Here’s a look:
• Vinyl: the fact that vinyl is the least expensive material doesn’t mean it’s ‘cheap’. Vinyl frames can be the best budget-friendly choice while at the same time ensuring you have an energy-efficient home. However, the colour choices might be a bit limit. All in all, the truth still remains that some people don’t just like the look of vinyl frames in their homes.
• Wood: this is by the far the best choice if you are thinking of insulation. But they require more upkeep when compared to vinyl or even aluminium. That’s because they have a high potential for rot, especially during the rainy days. A well-installed wood window frame will likely withstand the test of time.
• Aluminium: although it’s not the most ideal choice especially because of heat transfer, it’s the most recommended option in hurricane-prone areas because of its strength.
There are also other options such as composite, fibreglass, and wood-clad.
Prioritize materials and size
Once you’ve gone through the style and type of frame you’d like for your window, it’s now time to focus on the materials that are needed to make this project a reality. Again, depending on the space and the design of the home, you may require more durable materials. Each material will come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
In the end, what you will need to focus on is the plan of your house and possibly if you can consult with a company that deals with window installations. This will ensure you have a smooth ride during the whole process.
Bonus Tip: Colour is the Key
Lastly, a key component often overlooked… colour. Window colour is the ultimate spice that will help you achieve that architectural uniqueness that you need. Windows and also doors will have a tremendous effect on the aesthetic and resale value of your home.
So, before you commit to a give window style and shape, make sure the colours will easily blend well with the style of your home. Each home has its own unique element and yours is no different. Talk to your designer and you can both plan to get the best design out there.
Before you go…
Don’t ever underestimate the power that your windows and doors hold and how they can actually affect the whole ‘atmosphere’ of your home. You should carefully choose windows that will reflect your personality as well as your taste. One final thing, if you are considering replacing the windows in your home make sure you choose a licensed reputable contractor to do the work.
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed general contractor serving Newburyport and the surrounding areas of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, George Trojan Jr., owner of American Building and Design, has the experience to take your home improvement or remodelling project from vision to completion. Take a look at some of his work or reach out via the contact us page for a free consultation.