Choosing the Right Style of Replacement Window
A replacement window is an affordable way to upgrade your home’s look and increase its energy efficiency. But choosing the right style for your needs requires careful attention to detail.
First, decide if you want to replace all of your windows or just one. If you opt for all new windows, consider replacing them using the full frame method.
Window Style
The Warren Window window style that you choose is one of the most important decisions to make in your replacement window project. It will affect what type of glazing or glass you get, how the window operates and whether it will be energy efficient.
Single hung windows slide up and down a vertical track to open, while double hung windows have both top and bottom sashes that can be raised and lowered. Both styles offer good ventilation, easy cleaning and a classic look that can be found in a wide variety of home styles.
When it comes to introducing fresh air into your home, casements and awnings are typically more suited for openings in a room that may not have much access, such as recessed walls or vaulted ceilings. These types of windows operate by turning a hand crank and allow for added flexibility and security in letting in some fresh air.
Glass
Glass is a transparent, durable material that can be made clear, frosted, tinted, laminated, or insulated. It also has different properties depending on how it is manufactured, such as by heat-treating or annealing.
Basic “float” glass is used in windows and doors throughout North America. Float glass is usually a single- or double-strength type of glass.
The thickness of the glass is determined by a number of factors, including structural requirements and energy efficiency goals. Most residential replacement windows use 3/32″ or 1/8″ single-strength glass.
Occasionally, double-strength or 5/32″ glass is used for larger windows. It provides a significant increase in stability and reduces noise.
Other types of glass are tempered, laminated, tinted or filled with gas. These are often designed to achieve specific energy-efficiency and security goals, like reducing glare and protecting furniture from UV damage. They also can be patterned to create decorative effects. Some are even made to resist fading. They are available in a variety of colors and styles to suit every homeowner’s tastes.
Sash
A sash is one of the most important parts of your window. It holds the glass in place and allows you to open it up for fresh air or closed up for privacy.
Sashes can be made of glass, wood, or aluminum. The latter are usually more durable than the former and resist rot, damage, or moisture.
Older sashes may contain multiple panes of glass held together by grilles. These grilles can break if they are abrasive or scratched, which is why it’s best to check them for signs of damage on a regular basis.
If you notice any of these things, it may be time to replace your sash windows with new ones. You can save a lot of money on repairs and replacements by keeping up with your sash’s maintenance regularly.
You can buy sash repair kits to fix sashes if they break. These kits are easy to use and do not require the labor costs associated with total window replacement.
Frame
The frame is the outer shell that surrounds a window. It protects the glass from weather damage and helps keep air and water out of the interior of a home. The material used to build the frame will significantly affect its efficiency. Insulated vinyl frames and fiberglass perform better than wood or wood-clad windows.
There are three main ways that replacement windows are installed: pocket installation, inserts and full frame replacements. The first, pocket replacement, involves adding new sash and jamb liners to the existing opening to create a secondary frame within the original one.
A second option is to replace the entire frame, which can be a much more costly choice. This is best done when a window frame has serious damage, such as rot or insect infestation, or when it is difficult to open and close a window because of cracks or holes in the existing frame.
