By Gates Dearen
There are many
factors to consider when selecting the right type of window for your home. In
this article I will provide you with the information you need to know when
considering purchasing new windows. In this article we will look at the types
of materials and the construction techniques used to manufacture windows. This
will help you to make an intelligent and educated decision.
TYPES TO CONSIDER
There are three
types of windows to choose from when it comes to materials.
1. Aluminum. Although aluminum is considered outdated as
far as windows go, it might be all that you can fit into your budge
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| English: Isometric drawing of aluminum replacement window for the Sears Roebuck and Company Mail Order Store, Boston, Massachusetts (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
t. If your
windows are really old and inefficient, this may be the way to go. These will at least stop the drafts caused by
your old windows. Aluminum is a terrible insulator and is a conductor of heat
and cold, thus not nearly as efficient as wood or vinyl. In many cases, you can
purchase aluminum hybrid windows that are clad in vinyl. These obviously cost
more but work much better.
2. Wood.
Wooden windows are a much more energy efficient than aluminum, simply
because they conduct less heat or cold and insulate better. In other words, it
takes a lot longer for heat and cold to transfer through wood than it does
aluminum. Wood is also much more appealing and with good craftsmanship and
maintenance they can last for many, many years. Ultimately, wooden windows will
require a lot more maintenance than vinyl. If you live in a high humidity
region it will be very difficult to get the most use out of your wooden
windows. Moisture is a wooden window’s
enemy and wooden windows will need a fresh paint barrier applied on a regular
basis.
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| English: Cross Section of an energy efficient replacement window for residential buildings. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
3. Vinyl. Vinyl
windows have become the defacto homeowners first choice and with good reason.
Even though they're more expensive than the other types of windows, they will
save you mor
e money on energy bills over the long run. Vinyl is a much better
insulating material than wood or aluminum and requires less maintenance. The
only possible drawback that vinyl may have is that it only comes in limited
color choices. However, most people prefer white, beige or brown anyway and
most manufactures, if not all, provide these color choices.
In the next
section, I will explain the best construction technology, as well as the gage
and rigidity of the vinyl you want to seek in quality replacement windows.
CONSTRUCTION IS
IMPORTANT.
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| National Builder Construction Details (Photo credit: REVIVALthedigest) |
It is important
to know that not all vinyl windows are built the same. In this day and age, the
best manufactures only use Virgin Vinyl. This simply means there are no
recycled materials su
ch as plastics or PVC in the manufacturing process. Make
sure to ask your representative if your windows are made of Virgin Vinyl just
to be safe.
It is also
important to know the grade or thickness of the vinyl from which your windows
are made. This determines the rigidity, strength and quality of the window.
Here is a perfect example of a great quality window.
Here is a list of
specifications useful when comparing windows
- Stylish welded mainframe design with a full 3 1/4" frame depth assures structural integrity and durable construction.
- Foam insulation wrap on the frame provides weather tightness.
- Balance channel covers provide a stylish aesthetic.
- The Envirosealed glass system reduces heating and cooling costs, deadens sound and provides increased comfort. Standard Double Strength Glass Package for maximum energy efficiency.
- Spring-loaded night latches add security while allowing both window sash to remain partially open for ventilation.
- Patented detent clip prevents the top sash from drifting; easier to close and lock the window.
- Interlock for unsurpassed weather tightness.
- Heavy-duty, white weather stripping creates a barrier to air and water infiltration; prevents drafts and assures a tight fit.
- Steel reinforced meeting rails for increased strength and weather tightness.
- Both sashes are exterior glazed and aesthetically beveled to the glass for an elegant design and appearance.
- True sloping sill design allows water run off to the outside of your home.
As you can see
when it comes to choosing the right type of windows for your home there are
many factors to consider. In my previous articles, I discussed the types of
glass, number of panes and many other factors that make a window great.
Hopefully, this article added more information to help you choose the perfect
windows for your home. I hope this article helps guide you in making a more
informed decision. As we all know, the biggest financial investment we make
aside from our children's education is in
our home. If you liked this article, pass this on to your friends. If you would like to make a comment, enter
them in the Comments section at the end of the blog. If you have any questions
for me, please feel free to email me or call me at my office (904) 296-2515.
Thanks for reading and sharing our journey, until next time.
Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Door in Jacksonville Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving thebuildingproducts industry in Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. “Their approach is a little different. Theyaresimply looking to match the home owner with the right windows for their home and budget. Home improvements are enough of a hassle – we’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products, affordable prices, installers that know best practices and respect of your home.
Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Door in Jacksonville Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving thebuildingproducts industry in Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. “Their approach is a little different. Theyaresimply looking to match the home owner with the right windows for their home and budget. Home improvements are enough of a hassle – we’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products, affordable prices, installers that know best practices and respect of your home.
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