Replacing the windows of your home is a big decision. From the expense to the overwhelming amount of decisions, it’s easy to feel stuck. Let us help you focus on a few of the most important considerations so choosing new windows can be easier…and even exciting!
What to Consider
There are so many decisions when it comes to choosing new windows, but if you take a step back and organize your thoughts, you can prioritize what’s important to you. This can make the process easier–and save you money. We are going to focus on the important topics of how the windows function, some of the benefits and which design elements matter most.
Adjustable Windows VS Fixed Windows
Throughout your home, you may have certain windows that open and others that do not. Fixed windows are stationary and do not open. They are meant to show off the view and bring in natural light. Adjustable windows open for fresh air, also bringing in landscape views and sunlight, but can be more costly. The benefits of operable windows are fresh air, cleaning maintenance and safety features–all especially important with second floor bedrooms. But, when it comes to first floor rooms or within families that experience seasonal allergies, you might find that some windows aren’t worth the expense of the adjustable design.
Single and Double Hung Windows
These windows are commonly found in bedrooms. They are easy to open and have child safety features available. The difference between the two comes in how they open. Single hung windows only open with the bottom portion. This can be a good feature when you just want airflow. But, they top portion can be difficult to clean, which makes many homeowners hesitate when choosing new windows for the second floor of the home. Double hung windows offer adjustment to both portions of glass–top and bottom.
Casement Windows
A popular choice for first floor windows, casement windows open with a crank handle. One of the benefits is the look–they appear to be fixed to show off the view, but they open for airflow. When it comes to the window coverings, they can stay close to the lowered position, and the window can be opened.
Sliding and Folding Windows
Similar to casement windows, sliding and folding windows can appear more like fixed windows, showing off the view and inviting light. But they open to the side to allow for fresh air. One thing homeowners note about these windows is the cleaning maintenance–the design can be affected when debris collects, even making it harder to open when the mechanisms get dirty.
Tilt Turn Windows
The versatile design of tilt turn. windows means they can open in like a door, or tilt in at an angle. Access to fresh air is a cinch and cleaning is made easier. The downside of these windows has always been in trying to control light and privacy. Hunter Douglas introduced TrackGlide a few years ago, and the world never looked back. This narrow track adheres to the edges of the glass, allowing the shades to move as the windows move, inviting light control, privacy and energy efficiency.
The Functional Benefits of Windows
It doesn’t need to be said that windows bring in natural light and beautiful views. They can make a room feel open and airy, even when the windows are closed. They are also a safety feature–especially on the second floor of the home–offering an escape in the chance of a house fire or dangerous flooding from hurricanes.
While they let in light, some windows can let in an abundance, making rooms heat up to exhausting temperatures. In those spaces, adjustable windows offer ventilation to reduce radiant heat. You can also opt for energy efficient window treatments to regulate the temperatures in those rooms.
The Designer Details
While the function of your windows should drive your decisions, you can’t deny that choosing new windows will have a massive impact on the overall look of your home–both inside and out. Two decisions–the color scheme and window grilles–are both ways you can get personal with the design.
Window Grids
You can choose bare windows, or you can opt for window grilles, or grids as they have been called. The pattering goes from simple boxes to patterned edging at the sides. The pattern you choose can affect the view, especially with smaller windows.
The Color Scheme
There are a few options you have to choose from when defining the color scheme. White windows are standard–a widely loved option when choosing new windows. Black trimmed windows invite more of a contemporary vibe, but this choice comes at a cost. If you’d like to stick to a warm, traditional look, you can choose a woodgrain finish.
Ready for Window Coverings?
We know this is a big decision, and you’ve got one more to make: Window Coverings! When choosing new windows, you may also have to get new window coverings, and we are here to help. We’ll come to you for a free design consult in your home. Let us make this decision easy and fun by guiding you to the window shades, blinds, shutters or drapery that will enhance the look of your home while providing control and protection from the elements. Get in touch with our team today.
