Windows and doors are more than what we normally think off. They have several functions, they have to shut out noise, the have to shut out drafts, keep in heat or cooled air, and filter ultraviolet light. When undertaking your windows replacement project also think about the fact that they have to fasten securely to keep intruders out and resist wind, rain, and snow.
The great thing about your windows replacement project is that you have lots of choices of energy saving windows. If your windows replacement project seeks to remove very old windows, you will soon find that the new windows are paying for themselves, because of the energy efficient characteristics of your new windows.
Other factors to consider in your windows replacement project are the degree of importance that you allocate to such things as maintenance, ventilation, security, your budget, and your home style. If you are adding new window openings you should also think about the orientation of the windows, generally speaking a southern orientation is very desirable because it lets the most light in, but if you live in the desert such as Arizona or Palm Springs, California you may reconsider, because too much heat can enter the home.
In hot climates the orientation of your windows can have a substantial impact on your energy bills. You should also consider the view from the window, if you are doing new landscaping, make sure you look at the landscaping from the inside, not just the outside. Your windows replacement project might not be as good as you wanted if you are not happy with the outside view when you are inside your home.
In selecting materials for your windows replacement project besides the glass you also have several choices, you can choose wood, aluminum, steel, vinyl, or fiberglass or even a combination of materials. Those with superior protection against the elements are generally more expensive, but in the long run may be cheaper because of superior performance and a lower need for maintenance.
Wood is very popular material, but does expand and contract and will warp over time and may also rot over time. They require regular painting to maximize its life expectancy. Another wood option is called clad wood, which is really wood inside a aluminum or vinyl exterior. This is much longer lasting alternative to wood frame windows. Vinyl windows have hollow spaces inside the frame that make them more energy efficient, because of resistance to heat loss and condensation. The cheaper vinyl windows have a tendency to distort when exposed to extreme weather regardless of whether it is extreme heat or cold.
Steel is more resistant to the weather than wood or aluminum, but they are substantially more expensive and not used in homes very often. If your windows replacement project allows it, you should consider steel as it is very durable and low maintenance. Aluminum windows are more durable than wood and very light and easy to handle and have insulation. They are relatively maintenance free, except for coastal areas where the salty air causes them to corrode.
Window replacement is sometimes an easy do it yourself project, sometimes it is a little more complicated and requires expertise. It depends on such things as the size of the window and the attachment type. Most wood windows are sold in complete frames and are pre-hung so they fit easily into rough openings in the wall. Some vinyl and aluminum windows are likewise easy to install because they come with nailing flange on the outside that you attach to the sheating around the window with nails.
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