3 Tips For Choosing And Installing New Windows
Posted on: 31 July 2017
Windows are a fundamental part of any home and contribute to your quality of life in more ways than you might think. Not only do they provide a means by which to view your home's external surroundings, they are also crucial in determining the temperature and ambiance inside your home. You'll have several factors to judge windows by when you're choosing new ones for your house, so take a look below at some of the most important ones before you come to a decision.
Frame Material
One of the most important decisions you'll face when choosing new windows concerns the material from which the frame is made. Aluminum frames are popular in places that experience a lot of humidity and severe rains, as they are more durable than wood and vinyl. That said, they also conduct temperature far more easily than wood, so may not be the best choice for homes that see hot, dry summers and freezing winters. Wood doesn't conduct temperature to the same extent, but does shrink over time; in addition, rot is a constant threat that may require occasional maintenance. Vinyl is a third, less-popular option, but those on a budget will often find that they get good value for their money. Vinyl frames may not be the most attractive, but that doesn't mean you should steer clear of them completely.
Insulation
Insulation is also an important factor when it comes to choosing windows. Even if you're not very eco-conscious, you should look for a double-pane window with argon fill (which helps displace the air between the panels). These offer the best value for your money, as anything more is likely overkill. More specifically, you'll want to hunt down two numbers when looking for energy efficient windows: U-value, which reflects resistance to heat loss, and the solar heat gain coefficient, which shows how much heat you can expect the glass to let in your home. For both, a lower number is better. And if you're worried about costs, don't; the savings you'll accrue in the first summer after purchasing double-pane windows will pay for the difference.
Installation
Even if you've taken pains to select the best frames and insulation for your windows, incorrect installation will cancel out these benefits almost immediately. So before you install your windows, make sure that you perform thorough waterproofing -- including careful flashing. Failing to do so will almost certainly mean leaky windows in the future.
For more help, check out places like Fischer Window and Door Store.
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