A lot of thought goes into choosing replacement windows for your home. You want a style that suits your unique taste while still providing the functions you need. You also want a window that will last, be energy-efficient, and also offer the best value possible.
Your choice of windows will impact your home and lifestyle for years to come. If you don’t know how to get started, here is a foundation for you to make well-informed choices whenever you want to install new windows in your home.
Functional Features to Consider in Replacement Windows
Filter Natural Light
When you think of windows, probably the first thing that comes to mind is natural light. Everyone wants to sit by their window and watch the world go by. A leading function of a window is the ability to filter natural light. Not only does it make the room feel warm, welcoming, and contemporary, it also reduces your need for artificial lighting.
However, not all windows can provide the same amount of natural light. Large windows with huge panes of glass are better for natural light. Some of these window styles include bow windows, casement windows, picture windows, and bay windows. These window features can catch light from different angles during the day. For more natural light, you can add skylights to the ceiling.
Homeowners that want to keep enjoying natural light in their home should consider light filtering window treatment. This is to prevent ultra-violet rays from damaging your furniture, drapes, wood floors, and other treasured items.
Provide Ventilation
Don’t choose replacement windows by looks alone. Instead, ensure it serves the unique needs of your home and lifestyle. A window should provide natural ventilation, especially in areas with a more moderate climate.
Most operable windows will provide some level of natural airflow that draws fresh air in and pushes stale air outside. But when it comes to ventilation, you don’t need big windows. Some of the best windows for ventilation are awning windows, double-hung windows, hopper windows, and siding windows.
For awning windows, they are always easy to open. Even when it is raining, the windowpane helps to keep out moisture and debris. Double-hung windows are equally good for ventilation. This is because you can open the top and bottom simultaneously. The top of a double-hung window forces warm, and humid air out and draws in fresh and cool air from the bottom.
If you want cross breezing, you need an operable window on the opposite side of your home, including the upper and lower levels too. This will help create optimum airflow.
Energy-Efficient
Savvy homeowners know that windows are more than a source of letting in natural light. Your windows should at least reduce your utility bills. But do you know which window products are actually the most efficient? If you don’t, licensed window contractors can help you to determine the most energy-efficient windows by evaluating the condensation resistance, U-factor, air leakage rate, and the visible transmittance of each window model.
In the long run, energy-efficient windows can help you to achieve:
- Better Insulation: They help you to keep outdoor elements at bay, and they also help to form a barrier during cold weather, so that your home can stay warm. Even in summer, they protect your home interior from the blazing heat, so that your room can stay pleasant, cool, and fresh with little or no air-conditioning.
- Eco-Friendly Home: As the name implies, energy-efficient windows lower energy usage. They keep your home at a comfortable temperature without your air conditioner and heater having to work hard. This results in less use of power and makes your home eco-friendlier.
- Lower Costs: Since you are consuming less energy on cooling and heating your home, it translates to cost savings. This fact is good news for your house budget and utility bills.
- Less Noise: A great benefit of energy-efficient windows is their soundproofing ability. They admirably seal out exterior conditions like noise. This is good for communities where homes are built close to each other.
- Reduced Maintenance: These windows lower energy transfer, thereby reducing condensation buildup drastically. The UV-resistant coating also eliminates water and dirt buildup on the outside. Consequently, you don’t have to worry about cleaning regularly.
Protect Against Leaks
Your window must protect your home against air and moisture leaks. The truth is that not all windows have the same level of protection. Picture windows can protect your home against moisture because they are airtight. They have no moving or overlapping parts—they stay fixed. However, it is not logical to install only picture windows in your home because they are non-operable.
It is best to allow licensed window contractors to install tight-seal operable windows like hopper windows, casement windows, and awning windows for your home.
Maintain Privacy
For the most part, windows are transparent, so that you can get a great view. It also means people from outside are likely going to have a view of your home. To improve your privacy, you can choose replacement windows with decorated or etched glass. These window features allow light to pass through and obstruct the view of people outside.
Replacement Windows with Legacy Remodeling
Drafts, loose panes, high-energy bills are signs that you need replacement windows. At Legacy Remodeling, we are committed to providing unmatched solutions to keep your home safe and comfortable.
We effectively combine style with function and durability, while providing you with superior windows installed by expert window contractors. With our great reputation for quality and expert installation process, we never settle for anything less than the best.
If you have been searching the internet for the ‘best window company near me’, get ready to explore our stylish and energy-efficient replacement window options. Give us a call to speak with our agents and learn more about our professional installation services or simply fill out our online form to get your free quote.
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