Window installation is a vital home improvement project that helps enhance a property’s curb appeal and boost its market value. It also offers benefits such as improved energy efficiency and enhanced home security.
Choosing a qualified window installer is crucial for getting the best results. Look for a company with local references and extensive experience.
Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows are popular replacement options for older, inefficient windows. They have two operable sashes that slide vertically, improving ventilation and allowing in more natural light. These windows are available in a variety of materials and finishes, making it easy to find the right look for your home.
They are also highly energy-efficient, especially when installed properly. When the window is closed, it creates a tight seal that minimizes air leakage and keeps cold or warm air from entering your home.
They are also easy to clean, with the sashes able to be tilted inward. This makes it possible to reach hard-to-reach areas without the need for a ladder. The hardware you choose for your new double-hung windows can also impact the overall aesthetic. More decorative features like curves and ridges can help to achieve a more traditional aesthetic, while sleeker hardware is ideal for modern or transitional styles.
Hopper windows
Hopper windows have a single sash that opens inward, which is useful for spaces where ventilation and light are important. These windows work well in basements, bathrooms, and small spaces like laundry rooms and closets. They offer added privacy and security, as they cannot be easily broken into from the outside.
These windows do not open as wide as double-hung windows, and may allow rain to get into a room if left open in bad weather. However, they can be covered with a window chopper or other cover to prevent this from happening. They are also not suitable as emergency exits, so they should be avoided in spaces where this is a requirement.
They are ideal for areas where ventilation is important, such as a closed space or basement, and can be mulled with a picture window or another style of windows to maximize the benefits of each. They can also be used as the exterior outlet for dryer vents when paired with a vent hood.
Picture windows
Picture windows are designed to showcase spectacular scenery, much like a framed photograph or piece of art. These oversized window panes let you take in breathtaking, wide-open vistas of your home garden, mountain or ocean landscape, or tree-filled horizon while flooding interior spaces with natural light.
They feature a clean, contemporary design that adapts well to any design style. Their inoperable frames also conserve wall space for a more expansive view. In addition, new picture windows improve acoustic efficiency by limiting the penetration of outdoor noise and reducing energy loss through the seal.
Their large surface area is ideal for bringing in the sun, but you may need to install window treatments or frosted glass to maintain privacy. They can be combined with double-hung, gliding, casement, or specialty windows to enhance your home’s design and boost ventilation. For example, you can create a dramatic focal point with a larger picture window flanked by two smaller casement windows that open outward to allow air circulation and more stunning views.
Energy-efficient windows
The right windows save energy, improve comfort and increase home value. These upgrades are also eligible for tax credits and rebates that lower upfront costs.
Old or outdated windows can cause a variety of problems, including air infiltration that drives up energy bills and moisture issues that lead to rotting and other damage. To avoid these issues, choose a company that offers ENERGY STAR certified products and installation. This means that they have passed third-party certifications and been tested in different climate zones to ensure optimal performance.
Look for double-glazed windows with a space between panes to provide better insulation than single-pane windows. Also consider windows with low-e glass that reflects heat rather than absorbs it. Using argon gas between the panes can further improve insulating properties. Other features to look for include tightly-sealed edges and insulated frames. These options minimize heat loss during winter and air leakage in summer, reducing heating and cooling costs.