The bitter cold of winter creates for many homeowners the tendency to resist braving the elements, and spend more time indoors. Windows are great way enjoy the magic of winter from the warmth and comfort of your home.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing windows:
1. Check Out Double Hung Windows
A double hung window is a popular choice among homeowners and one that we at Tom Hamburger Builders highly recommend for a couple reasons. Functionality and Flexibility — double hung windows allow you to lower the top or raise the bottom sash and effectively manage airflow. They are Easy to Clean —Most new types of Double Hung windows are also easy to clean because the sash tilts in. This allows you to clean the outside glass, from inside your home.
2. Get Windows with Good Insulation
Windows that have good insulation will allow less heat to flow through. For instance, when it is 0°F outside, the inside surface temperature of a double-pane glass window is about 44°F, but for a high-performance window it jumps to about 56°F. This means the air temperature in your home will be more consistent throughout the room. Having windows with good insulation also helps to prevent condensation problems.
How do you know if a window has good insulation? Manufacturers use a system called a U-Factor to measure the insulation capabilities of their windows. The lower the U-Factor the better the insulation. It is important to note that the different parts of the window each have different U-Factors, so when comparing products be sure you are comparing the whole window U-factor for the each window — and not U-Factors from different parts of each window. These days, advancements in research and energy saving technology make it easy to identify the whole window U-Factor, because many new windows are labeled with an energy information sticker from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) which will list the whole window U-Factor right on the window.
3. Make Sure the Window Has Sufficient Tilt
When choosing a double hung window you want to make sure that the windows have good tilt, and the best way to find out is to test it. If your sales representative or contractor doesn’t have the window you want in stock, visit another showroom that does or test a window from the same manufacturer that is similar to yours. A window with good tilt should open and close with ease and should feel like it is firmly assembled. Different windows also have different degrees of tilt so be sure the window you choose opens at an angle that feels most comfortable to you.
4. Read & Understand Your Warranty
Most residential windows on the market come with a limited warranty. Each manufacturer stands behind their product with varying levels of resolution, so it is important to make sure you understand it. First take a look at how long your warranty will last. Warranties on quality windows typically range from 10-20 years with different lengths on glass, and non-glass parts. Next find out if the warranty is transferable. If it is a non-transferable warranty, it may expire should you choose to sell your home. Finally, find out if the manufacturer has good customer service reviews. A warranty is only as good as the manufacturer’s ability to deliver on their promise.
5. Don’t Skimp on the Windows
In the present economy we understand that it is increasingly important to be intentional about where you spend your money, and ensure you’re saving where you can. However, going with the less expensive windows can really end up costing you. So if you plan to purchase a less expensive brand of window make sure you do your research. A quick Google search can show you just what you’re in for. Our search on one low-budget manufacturer yielded complaints such as opening mechanism failure, leaking, discoloration, stains, and moisture on the inside of the window — some of which were reported within the first year.
If you have a home building project and would like an experts opinion or would like more information on choosing the right windows for your home please contact Tom Hamburger of Tom Hamburger Builders thbinc@comcast.net or connect with him on LinkedIn and facebook