Replacing your windows can transform your house into a beautiful, light-filled space. However, the window installation process should be left to a professional. They will use the right materials to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks.
Choose a local company that has extensive experience with window installation and replacement. Look for a reputation for excellent work and customer satisfaction.
Types of Windows
Choosing the right type of window will enhance your home’s interior and improve its energy efficiency. You can also choose windows that complement your property’s architectural style.
If you have old windows in your home, a few signs that it’s time to replace them include drafts, condensation, fogging between the glass units, or increased energy bills. Newer, double-pane windows and low-E glass options can help reduce energy costs and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.
When you decide to purchase replacement windows, look for professional installers who follow industry-leading installation practices. They will ensure your windows are properly installed and sealed for optimal performance and durability. They will also be able to recommend the best products to meet your needs. They can install both full frame and pocket replacement windows.
Awning Windows
Because awning windows open outward, they are better than sliding or hung windows for ventilating homes during warmer seasons. Unlike casement windows, they don’t have an exterior handle that may protrude into high-traffic areas such as decks or stairways where people could get injured.
They’re often placed high on walls to provide unobstructed views and improve airflow without letting rain into the home. They also pair well with picture windows above them to expand views and provide ventilation.
However, their large opening size makes them less suitable for egress windows. They can also be difficult to clean the outside of because of their curved hinges and angled sash. They require more exterior space to swing out, and their sash is heavier than double-hung windows, which can lead to a more complicated installation process.
Casement Windows
If you want unobstructed views and ventilation in your home, choose casement windows. Like a door, they swing open on hinges on the side and seal closed using a lever or crank. They can be placed in a bay window or mixed with other windows for a custom look in any home style.
They offer a sleek window frame that complements any home, and they can be used alone to bring in fresh air or with a traditional grid pattern for a more classic look. For added curb appeal, consider adding colonial-style grilles.
One drawback of casement windows is that they require more space to be opened fully, and they may protrude into exterior high-traffic areas when open if there’s shrubbery or a walkway nearby. They also tend to amplify the sound of wind and can be an obstruction when open during storms.
Double-Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows feature two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar and filled with an insulating gas to reduce heat transfer. They can be used to replace windows in uPVC, aluminium or timber frames and are known as sealed units.
They are more energy efficient than single-pane windows as they help keep the cold out and the warm in, especially in Minnesota’s harsh winters. This reduces heating costs and may lead to lower energy bills in the long run.
They also help to reduce condensation. Condensation happens when the air cools and moisture is drawn to the surface of the glass causing fogging or frost. The air gap between the two glass panes in double glazed windows holds a low amount of moisture which helps prevent this from occurring.
Vinyl Windows
When it comes to replacing windows, there are a lot of different options available for homeowners in Sterling Heights MI. Choosing the right window type will make a big difference in your home’s aesthetic, energy efficiency, and comfort.
One of the most popular types of replacement windows are vinyl ones. They are made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC, which is resistant to rotting and is an excellent insulator. They are also less expensive than other types of replacement windows, and they come in a wide range of styles including double-hung, casement, awning, slider, hopper, bay, and bow windows.
They do have some limitations, however. Low-quality vinyl windows can be prone to warping or softening in extremely hot temperatures. Some manufacturers offer engineered vinyl windows that are made differently than standard vinyl to create a more durable frame.