A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Windows for Your Home Remodel
Are you planning a home remodel and looking to replace your windows? Choosing the right windows can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also improve energy efficiency and overall comfort. With various types of windows and window styles available, it's essential to understand your options to make an informed decision. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of windows and window styles suitable for your home remodel.
Window Terminology
Rough Opening
The rough opening for a window is the framing inside of the walls that the window is secured to. When a new house is being built, the framing for the window will be measured out by the rough opening. These are the wood studs that the window is secured to.
Jamb and Frame
The jamb is a part of the window frame that is secured to the house framing in the rough opening. The window frame can be made of a variety of materials.
Window Frame Materials
Aluminum – low cost but poor insulation.
Wood – higher cost and requires more maintenance.
Clad – highest cost but looks like wood with less maintenance.
Vinyl – low cost but degrades if overheated. Better suited for colder climates.
Fiberglass – offers high insulation but tends to be more expensive.
Casing
Casing is the decorative trim that covers up the gap between the window jamb and the rough opening. There is an outside casing and sometimes there is an inside casing as well.
Sash
Sashes are used in single and double hung windows. Think of them as the components that are moved up and down in the pulley systems. For a single hung window, there is a single sash weight on each side of the window and the top sash cannot move. For double hung windows, there are two sash weights on each side of the window and both sashes can move. The sash weights are connected to the sashes through a pulley system and help them move up and down when opening or closing the window.
Glass Panes
Within each window sash there are glass panes. These panes can be divided even further by muntins.
Muntins
Muntins are the strips of wood or metal that separate the glass panes within each sash.
Types of Glass
Sheet Glass is made by drawing out a sheet of molten liquid and tends to be the lowest cost type of glass. The thickness is not as consistent as other glass types.
Float Glass is made by pouring molten glass on a tank of molten tin. This is more commonly seen and tends to be much flatter.
Plate Glass is made by grinding and then polishing down to a high degree of flatness. This is most often used in larger display windows.
Glazing
The glazing on the glass panes of a window determines its light and heat transmission characteristics. Glazing manufacturing techniques have become so efficient in recent years that the glass panes often will have better heat resistance than the framing and trim components of the window.
Most modern windows are double glazed and sometimes triple glazed for colder climates. There is a sealed and airtight space between each of the glass panes that make up the glazing. This space is sometimes filled with a nontoxic gas that acts as a better insulator.
Glass Improvements
Tempered Glass is made from rapid cooling of the molten glass to get the highest surface tension possible. It is 5 times as strong as untempered glass and is less dangerous when shattered. This is typically required for door glass and skylight glass.
Heat-Absorbing Glass is made from adding chemicals to the glass when they are being produced. This allows the glass to absorb solar energy.
Reflective Glass is made by adding a metallic film on the surface of the glass to reflect solar energy. Low-E glass has a special coating that reflects infrared waves that are not visible to the human eye.
Stool or Sill and Apron
The bottom ‘shelf’ of the window is sometimes called the sill. The sill is the top surface part of the stool. Underneath the sill is the apron. This is the part that hangs below the bottom of the sill.
Types of Windows
Single Hung Windows
Single hung windows consist of two sashes, with the bottom sash being operable and the top sash fixed. These windows are a classic choice and are easy to clean and maintain.
Double Hung Windows
Similar to single hung windows, double hung windows feature two operable sashes, allowing for better ventilation and flexibility in opening options.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward with a crank mechanism. They provide excellent ventilation and unobstructed views, making them ideal for modern homes.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom, creating a canopy effect when open. They are great for providing ventilation while keeping out rain.
Slider Windows
Slider windows have sashes that slide horizontally, offering a contemporary look and easy operation. They are suitable for rooms with limited space where a swinging window might not be practical.
Fixed or Picture Windows
Picture windows are fixed windows that don't open, providing expansive views and allowing ample natural light into your home. They are perfect for showcasing scenic views and enhancing the aesthetics of your living space.
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows protrude outward from the exterior wall of the house, creating a cozy alcove inside. They consist of multiple windows arranged at angles, adding architectural interest and extra space for seating or decorative purposes.
Skylight Windows
Skylight windows are installed in the ceiling, allowing natural light to enter from above. They can brighten up interior spaces, improve ventilation, and create a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors.
Considerations for Choosing Windows
Energy Efficiency
Look for windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, insulated frames, and energy-efficient ratings to reduce heat transfer and lower utility bills.
Shading Coefficient or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
This is the percentage of solar heat that passes through the glazing. For colder climates, a lower number means that more solar heat will pass through the window. For hotter climates, a higher number means that less solar heat will pass through the window.
U-Factor
These are all the insulating features of the window in a single number. It measures the non-solar heat flow through a window and therefore its insulating ability. A smaller U-Factor number means better insulation ability of the window.
Functionality
Consider how you want your windows to operate and how they will impact ventilation, natural light, and ease of use in each room.
Durability
Invest in high-quality windows with durable materials and weather-resistant finishes to ensure long-term performance and protection against the elements.
Aesthetics
Choose windows that complement your home's architectural style, interior decor, and personal preferences to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Budget
Determine your budget for window replacement and explore options that offer the best value in terms of quality, performance, and aesthetics.
Step by Step Process for Selecting Windows
Determine what kind of windows you currently have.
Call a professional such as Timeless Signature Builds LLC to come and get measurements of your windows.
Decide if you want to install a replacement sash, window insert, or an entirely new construction window. Window inserts will allow you to keep the existing casing with minimal installation costs. Installing new construction windows will give you new sills, but the installation cost will be much higher.
Choose a window vendor based on a recommendation from your local contractor.
Decide what kind of frame material you want to use for your windows.
Review energy efficiency considerations for selecting windows.
Conclusion
Choosing the right windows for your home remodel is a significant decision that can greatly impact the overall look, feel, and functionality of your living space. By understanding the different types of windows and window styles available, along with key considerations such as energy efficiency, functionality, durability, aesthetics, and budget, you can make informed choices that meet your needs and preferences.
Timeless Signature Builds LLC can help you in selecting windows that meet your needs and guide you through the process of getting them installed in an affordable and timely manner. Reach out today to set up an initial consultation!
