Modern homeowners have a wide range of window options to choose from.
When it’s time to replace outdated windows, homeowners have more options now than ever before. Energy efficient, affordable windows can be customized to suit any home’s architectural style or custom designed to create an entirely new style. With so many window options available, it can be hard to decide which window style will be right for your home.
It’s a good idea to look at a few company websites to see different window styles and colors before talking to a salesperson. When you set up an in-person sales visit, ask what product lines the company sells so you can research them ahead of time. Consider the following window features as you you’re your decision.
What to Consider
Energy Performance
Energy efficient windows are designed with a particular climate in mind, so check the label to make sure the window you like is designed for your climate zone. U-factor indicates the insulation level of a window. Lower U-factor windows (0.27 and less) mean more insulation, so they’re great for homes in the northern United States. If you live in the South, look for lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) levels (0.25 and less). These windows will block more solar heat to keep your house cool in the summer.
Frame Material
Window frames can be made of vinyl, fiberglass, metal, or wood. While traditional wood frames maintain the historical integrity of an older home, they require more maintenance. Modern vinyl and fiberglass windows, on the other hand, are durable and lower maintenance.
Color
While traditional window frames were often white or black, modern fiberglass and vinyl windows can be customized to just about any color scheme. They can be pre-finished so that it’s not necessary to paint after windows are installed, and they can even have different exterior and interior colors.
Grids or Grilles
By the mid-1800s, windows with six glass panes per sash were the norm in many areas, while 20th century children’s drawings generally attest to four-pane windows. Today’s windows are most often one pane broken up by grids, or grilles, and they’re completely customizable. These grids are often between the glass layers, making the windows much easier to clean. Some companies offer grids that clip on the interior of the window to give a more traditional look to the window from the inside. Others still offer traditional multi-pane windows with each lite being a separate unit of two layers of glass.
Window Opening Style
Double-hung windows, also called a vertical sliders, are the most common window opening styles in the Eastern U.S. On the West coast, horizontal sliders are common. These aren’t your only options, however. There are also window types that project out known as casements, awnings, and hoppers, which open from the side, bottom, or top respectively. Fixed or picture windows do not open at all.
Get the right windows for your home from Kasson and Keller.
Kasson and Keller manufactures a complete line of -certified replacement and new construction vinyl window products. Get in touch today to learn how our Ecoshield windows can reduce utility costs and increase comfort in your climate zone.
Are you ready for an upgrade?
Learn more about Kasson & Keller’s vinyl windows and how they can save you money by contacting us at sales@kassonkeller.com or 1-800-452-7535.