Choosing windows for your home remodel
Replacing your windows is a home remodel that may cost you a lot of money up front but will definitely save you money in the long run. There are some things to consider however when choosing windows for your home remodel. If you're thinking of replacing your windows then here are some things to consider and to think of.
Style
- There are several different styles of windows to choose from. Some of them are more energy efficient than others; some have different hinges and open different ways, and of course there are different colors to choose from.
- The most efficient kind of windows are casement windows which open from a hinge at the top or at one side of the window which can be opened or closed using a crank. Casement windows let very little air in because they fit so tightly against the weather seal when closed. Casement windows are usually used in a contemporary designed home.
- Double hung windows are more traditional in style. They consist of a lower pane and an upper pane. When you want to open or close the window you slide the lower portion of the window upwards.
- Sliding windows are another style that you can choose from. They are basically the same as double hung windows except they slide from side to side instead of up and down. The weather seal used in this type of window and the double hung windows because damaged over time and unfortunately lets in more air and becomes less efficient.
Condensation
- Condensation will happen with every window you put into your home. The amount of condensation becomes an issue however because it usually means that your windows are not insulating your home very well. To help prevent a lot of condensation look for windows with warm air technology and high quality metal spacers that run along the edge of the window pane.
The U Factor
- The U Factor is probably the second biggest thing to consider when remodeling and putting new windows into your home. The U Factor measures how well your window prevents air leaks between the sash and the frame. If the U Factor is less than .35 your windows are considered energy efficient. So if you live in a state or country that is cold and windy you want to consider carefully what the U Factor of your windows is going to be.
Personal Preference
- An important consideration to keep in mind is your own personal preference. What kind of windows do you like? Do you prefer wood framed windows, or do you like vinyl? In considering your preference you also need to consider which ones are difficult to maintain and which ones are not. You have to live with them and look at them so you want to be happy about what you buy.
Window Placement
- If you are building a new home or knocking out walls to put new windows in something you will need to consider is where you put your windows. When deciding where to put them, keep in mind where the sun rises and sets; what time of day will be the hottest and the coolest, etc. South facing windows let in a lot of heat, while North facing windows do not.
When choosing windows for your home remodel you need to take all aspects into consideration. There are several things to consider and to think about before going out and buying something. Do your
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Tags: choosing_windows home_remodel windows home remodel style energy efficient colors hinges casement_windows double_hung_windows traditional contemporary sliding_windows weather_seal condensation U_Factor personal_preference window_placement south_facing north_facing
