It has been established that one of the easiest and most effective means of improving the curb appeal of your home and its value is to replace the windows. Replacement windows look great and aid in improving the energy efficiency of the home.
They also improve the security of the home. In this replacement window buying guide, we will help you become familiar with the types of products that are currently available.
The Basics
There are windows that are designed for newly constructed homes and windows that are designed to be used for window replacements in currently built homes. Those for new construction projects have a nailing fin, which is a rim that allows you to securely place the new window through the opening within a wall.
A replacement window for a home that is already in place will not include a nailing fin. When you are ready to purchase replacement windows, you should work with a company that sells only high-quality products and takes accurate measurements.
Replacement windows are considered to be either operable (they open) or inoperable (they don’t open). Each window has – at the minimum – one pane of glass and a framework of vertical-based stiles and horizontal-based rails. The frame includes a head, a jamb, and a jamb and a sill.
What is Included in a Window?
Different types of windows exist and each type has their own anatomy. The most basic of all window anatomies include the following:
- The head jamb
- The grilled located between the glass
- The glazing and the glass
- The sash
- The jamb on the side
- The stile
- The rail
- The sill
Types of Replacement Windows
There are many types of replacement windows that may be purchased. These include the following:
- Single Hung
- Double Hung
- Sliding
- Picture
- Bay
- Bow
- Glass Block
- Casement
- Awning
- Skylights
Types of Window Frames
The following outlines the types of window frames available for replacement windows:
- Vinyl
- Aluminum
- Aluminum Clad
- Wood
- Fiberglass
Energy Efficiency
There are many replacement windows that include multiple layers of glass. In-between these layers argon gas is placed to provide insulation. This will prevent condensation from occurring. In addition to this, desiccant may be used – which is a drying agent – to help in preventing condensation, too. Furthermore, low-E glass may be used.
This contains a thin coating of a metallic oxide that is designed to allow light in, but blocks out heat. The U-Factor of the replacement window has an impact on the rate in which heat is allowed to flow in and out of the window and its frame. This measurement outlines the overall level of energy efficiency.
Then, there is the solar heat gain co-efficient. This indicates how much of the solar-based energy is passing through the window. A high number means more is allowed to pass and a lower number means less. In the South, you should go for a lower number and in the north, you should go for a higher number.
Contact Us Today
If you are ready for replacement windows, contact us here at Southern Industries Home Improvements today. When talking to one of our home improvement specialists, be sure to ask about our current low-cost installation special. Call us now at (833) 240-4900