In the first part of this Windows 101 series, our windows and siding experts at Masters Roofing discussed the common symptoms of faulty windows. Now that you have determined a replacement is necessary, you will need to make your way through the maze that is shopping for a new window.
In the past, windows served one purpose: to provide lighting and ventilation to your home. Today, windows perform a number of functions, the most important of which is maintaining your home’s energy efficiency. These innovations have truly revolutionized the way we see our windows, but it did have one unintended complication: window selection has certainly become more complicated.
Here are a few guidelines to simplify the process and help you find the right window that suits your needs.
Frame Material
The frame is the sturdiest part of the window, lasting decades and needing little maintenance. Choosing a frame material will depend on your needs as well as your budget. While wood offers a great look, it requires frequent exterior painting service to maintain its appeal. Vinyl can be made to look like wood and needs no repainting, but durability is not its strongest suit. Composite frames, such as those made from fiberglass or a combination of wood fibers and vinyl, offer all the benefits and none of the drawbacks of their individual composites.
Glass Panes
In our experience as a window and roof repair contractor, we’ve found that for most homes a double-pane low-E4 glass is typically enough for an average home. The amount of insulation it gives saves you about 10% annually on your heating and cooling. You can choose other options such as triple-pane glass, a more expensive version of its double-pane cousin, which offers an added layer of insulation for even better savings.
Style
Lastly, you want to look at the different styles that replacement windows come in. Generally, these are double-hung, casement, sliding, picture and sometimes even bay and bow windows. Today, customizing a window has become so much easier, which means you can find a style that can fit any awkward space in your walls.
Give Masters Roofing a call today and ask us about window replacement options for your home. Request a free estimate today by calling (844) 400-4774 or filling out our online contact form. We serve homeowners in and around Memphis, TN.