Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home!

Choosing the right windows for your home or replacing old windows is no small task. Not only do you want to get the look of your home correct, but there are also more practical reasons to worry about, mainly your energy bills. On top of this, you’ll also want the right window installation company to help you complete the process. If you’re trying to decide the right type of windows for your home, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here are some of the key factors you should consider when choosing the right windows for your home:

1. Energy efficient
2. Light exposure
3. Frame styles

Energy efficient

For most families, the number one goal is to have windows that save you money. While there are many types of windows, most people need to decide whether they want to replace just the glass inside the window or replace both the glass and window frame. We’ll cover frames in a bit, but let’s focus on glass.

For starters, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, you should look for the Energy Star Label for the most efficient windows. These windows have been rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and you can find how energy efficient each window is. 

Window ratings focus on a variety of factors, but the most important areas according to the Energy Department are heat gain and loss, and sunlight transmittance. Heat gain and loss focus on the passage of heat from the window into the home. It also focuses on air leakage into the home. Sunlight transmittance is how much sunlight is let into the home. This is a factor separate from heat, focusing specifically on light transmitted.

Additionally, windows are also ranked based on the climate in which they do best in the United States. Furthermore, the right company can help you with choosing the right windows for your home with these specifications. If you plan on major renovations, consider a residential roofing company that can not only handle your windows but siding and walls as well.

Light Exposure

Speaking of sunlight transmittance, how much natural light do you want in your home? Natural sunlight can be great for keeping your electricity bills low and making your home more aesthetically pleasing. Placement is key when choosing the right windows for your home. Before choosing the length of the windows or placement, consider your daily routine.

Are you the type of person who enjoys their kitchen every day and wants to add a little something to the breakfast nook? While adding another window to your living room may be nice, will it interfere with you watching the big game? How will a new window “open up the space?”

Consider these factors when trying to nail down the amount of light exposure you want in your home. You want to strike a balance between placement, length, and functionality. Choosing the right window for your home is about making your lifestyle easier and more functional. 

Frame Styles

There are many types of frames for windows. The most common are:

• Wood
• Vinyl
• Metal

Wood gives your home a natural look and feel. It can be easily painted over for new looks but can deteriorate over time. Proper maintenance is required when dealing with wood frames as rot can set in. However, if you want a great sound barrier to the outside and an earthy tone to your home this a great starting point.

Vinyl is cheaper than most other window frames. However, it doesn’t skimp in quality. Much like vinyl fences, the material is actually very strong and energy-efficient. Meaning you’ll get the most bang for your dollar in the long run. On the downside, there isn’t nearly as much customization with vinyl as there is with wood.

Metal such as aluminum is a strong material that can last a long time and requires little to no maintenance compared to wood. Aluminum is moderately priced and is a good frame option for custom and oddly-shaped windows. But it provides poor insulation as heat can pass through much easier than wood or vinyl.

Want help choosing the right windows for your home? Don’t worry, we can help. Galaxy Construction and Roofing can help you with the entire process of window installation. Whether you need new windows or simple repairs, we can help walk you through the process. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!