Getting rid of drafty windows can improve your home’s comfort and increase its value. It can also cut your energy bills.
Look for a window company with a good reputation and long history in the community. Check out customer reviews and talk to a representative in person. Ask about pricing options and installation time.
ENERGY STAR® Windows
The ENERGY STAR label shows that a window meets a variety of energy performance requirements. It also helps consumers compare the energy efficiency of different windows, doors and skylights. ENERGY STAR criteria vary by climate zone.
NT Window manufacturers offer a wide selection of ENERGY STAR windows that meet the EPA’s requirements. Energy efficient window installations can help save homeowners money on their utility bills. They can also qualify homeowners for state and local rebates.
ENERGY STAR windows and doors are tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). You can find out about a window’s energy efficiency by looking at its NFRC label, which includes details like the U-factor and SHGC ratings. Having this information can help you decide which products are right for your home renovation project.
Bow Windows
Bow windows are a great option for homeowners looking to increase the amount of natural light in their home. They are similar to bay windows but have more curves and a more graceful look. These windows can be used to add a window seat or create a cozy reading nook. They can also be a great place to hang greenery or other decorations.
They can be made out of wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum frames. They are typically less expensive than bay windows and come in premade designs, but they can be more expensive if custom options are added. They may also require more maintenance because they have more individual windowpanes than bay windows do. This can include regular checks for leaks.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are one of the most popular replacement window styles among homeowners. Their design allows both the top and bottom window sashes to tilt inward for easy cleaning. This feature makes them ideal for second-story windows and multi-story homes. They also help improve air flow and ventilation.
Double hung windows have a classic look that matches most home designs, including Colonial, Cape Cod, and Craftsman. You can customize the window’s aesthetics with various frame colors and grille patterns.
Both single- and double-hung windows can increase your home’s resale value and energy efficiency. However, it’s important to choose a window with a high-quality glass package and professional installation. This will ensure long-term performance and energy savings. A window installer with a good track record can give you peace of mind about your investment.
Casement Windows
Unlike double-hung windows, casement windows open by swinging out like doors courtesy of hinges on the side of the frame. They can be styled with window grids or divided lite bars to achieve either a contemporary or traditional aesthetic.
They provide excellent ventilation by catching breezes and directing them into the living space. Their design eliminates air leakage and provides a tight seal, which helps reduce heating and cooling costs.
Homeowners looking to upgrade their homes with energy-efficient windows should check out local window installation companies such as Window Nation. This company has been operating since 2006 and has showrooms across 13 states. Its reputation is backed by hundreds of positive reviews from customers online. It also offers a price match guarantee. Contact its team for more information.
Vinyl Windows
Many homeowners are attracted to vinyl windows because they come in a wide range of colors and styles. They are also affordable, energy-efficient and can boost a home’s value.
They can last longer than aluminum-clad wood windows and require less maintenance. They’re not prone to warping, rusting or sagging. They’re also impervious to insects, allowing you to enjoy your view without worrying about infestations.
They aren’t as aesthetically pleasing as wood frames and may not add as much resale value to your home. They also don’t allow for as much expansion and contraction, resulting in air gaps that impact your window’s efficiency. Having welded corners helps reduce these gaps, however. Also, vinyl may discolor if exposed to extreme weather conditions. It can also be difficult to paint.