When shopping for new windows, architectural jargon often matters less than the actual replacement windows themselves. Architectural glass is generally an expensive, higher-quality premium window purchased by a contractor at Roof Repair Norman OK. On the other hand, replacement windows and lots of other building materials, including doors, floors, and cabinets that go under the label builder-grade or contractor grade, will be less costly. These discount windows are often referred to as imitation or custom-made or custom-fit windows. Replacement windows are windows that have been cut to fit into the opening of a building. These windows must meet local ordinances and can only be ordered from licensed contractors.
Double-hung and casement windows are the most common types of replacement windows. Single-hung windows are not used in most new construction projects. Windows are generally ordered in a standard design and sizes. Window styles include bay, picture, casement, tilt and turn, tropical, sliding, and many others. Replacement windows have different methods of opening, including hinged, track, and sash.
Double-hung windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a support surface. The panes are installed in a frame outside the house and extend in the interior to cover an opening into the interior. A center section of glass extends from each paned window. Some single-hung windows are designed with trims of metal within the glass for either added ventilation or to reduce glare.
Most new construction projects require frameless or glazed windows. Frameless or transparent glass provides energy savings since it doesn’t contain any glass. Glazed windows are framed with special metal or plastic components. These plastic or metal frames are constructed to accommodate the weight of the glass and the tension of the window parts.
Vinyl frames are the most popular style of exterior window. Vinyl frames provide good insulation, but they are the least expensive by far. The most popular choice for exterior windows is vinyl replacement. This choice provides the greatest amount of insulation compared to other materials, yet is still less expensive than aluminum or wood. Vinyl frames are available in most colors, although black is the most popular. Vinyl frames are available in all price ranges, although they are more expensive than aluminum or wood windows because vinyl frames are more expensive to produce.
Wood and aluminum replacement windows are similar in style but are slightly more expensive. They both provide good energy efficiency, but the aluminum is the lowest priced. These windows provide more privacy and offer better venting for all seasons, although the double-hung windows may allow some sunlight into the room.
Installing new windows saves you money in several different ways. No matter what type of material is chosen for the windows, including wood, aluminum, or vinyl, you will save money on your heating and cooling bills. Storm windows help reduce noise and increase energy efficiency by reducing air leakage through openings in the windows. Both replacement windows and storm windows require professional installation, but you can usually do the installation yourself, saving hundreds of dollars.
For an environmentally-friendly home, double-hung and sliding windows are the best styles. Double-hung windows are considered more efficient than single-hungs because they require two panels to be installed instead of one. The extra panel requires more materials and labor, but it is more cost efficient and adds more functionality to the house. Sliding windows are more efficient and install easily because you don’t need to cut through the second or thicker panel to access the opening.
Regardless of the type of window installation you choose, double-hung or sliding, a trained and qualified contractor should be able to help you make the right decision based on your needs and budget. New window installation can be a rewarding experience if you go about it properly. It is best to hire a professional in most climates to install new windows because they have the proper training and experience to ensure that the job is done right the first time. In areas with scorching and humid climates, it may be best to avoid replacement windows altogether. They aren’t able to withstand the extreme temperatures and can actually increase the cost of your heating and cooling costs.
The most common types of replacement windows are casement, sash, and tilt and turn. Each of these styles has pros and cons, but many homeowners go with the newer energy-efficient versions because they offer several attractive features. For instance, casement windows open with a latch rather than a pull cord, offering an easy and attractive way to open them up for extra airflow. Sash and tilt and turn windows require no tools to open, and both offer different styles that will complement almost any home design. New windows with a combination of these window types are the most energy-efficient and are generally the best option for homeowners in warm climates.
Regardless of what type of window you choose, replacing your old windows with energy-efficient models will bring you big savings in the long run. When it comes to buying a new house, having efficient windows installed will save you thousands of dollars over the loan’s life. Even if you only save a few hundred dollars initially, you could easily save several thousand dollars over the life of your loan. The biggest advantage of installing energy-efficient windows is that they help reduce your carbon footprint. Over the long run, your bank account will thank you for it.