How to Choose Windows for Your Home

Now that the coldest months are over you probably have a very good idea as to how well your current windows are performing. Based on your assessment, this could be the ideal time to consider new or upgraded windows, Typically, many manufacturers, retailers and contractors offer their most competitive prices right now, in the pre-spring season.
To decide if your old windows need upgrading, examine then in terms of their physical operation and appearance as well as their energy conservation abilities. Then, consider options that work with your current window system, like transparent glaze (usually glass); the sash (which holds the glass); or the frame (which keeps everything aligned). If you think you need more than a few replacement parts, perhaps a window "insert" may fit your existing opening. If not, a whole new window system may be in order. In either case, you will have lots of options to consider.

What's Best for Your Home?
First, you will need to decide whether you want a fixed window or an operable one (having one or more moving panels). All things being equal, fixed windows are less costly, more secure, and more energy efficient, but they do not provide ventilation or an emergency escape. Before deciding , you should check your local building code. Once you've made this decision, you'll need to compare the various window systems available for your preferred style.
Windows vary significantly in costs according to their type of glaze and surrounding components. The frames may be aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl, wood or a combination of materials designed for various applications. Aside from your preference in visual appearance, the best way to evaluate the various windows is by their Energy Rating (ER). This rating should be clearly identified by the manufacturer.

Window Features
Different features contribute to different levels of energy efficiency depending on the circumstances. Ideally, you should have the opportunity to carefully examine a working cross-section model or sample of any window you are considering, along with the manufacturer's brochure diagram and description, so that you may compare the components.

The options include:
- Single Glazed Window Panes: This pane has only 1 panel thickness and is therefore least efficient and not recommended beyond summer sheds, ect.
- Double Glazed Window Panes: These provide a minimum standard for weather protection, to work effectively, the panels need airtight space between them.
- Triple Glazed Window Panes: While this system provides maximum insulation, it may be too heavy or thick for common applications.
- Low-E: The low emissivity (low e) coating applied to these window panes reflects heat, keeping warmth in during winter and out during summer.
- Gas Filled: Usually argon or krypton gas is sealed between the window panels to further reduce heat transfer.
- Reflective Film: Applied to the window pane, this film restricts various levels of heat/light transfer, according to climate and exposure.
- Spacers: Multi-glazed windows should have low-conduction spacers sealed between panels.
- Seals: Multi-glazed windows require seals, which are guaranteed against leaks. Even minor leaks cause condensation damage and heat loss.
- Screens: There should be an essential standard part of any operable window system, even I you only require occasional ventilation.

Window Styles
If your want a window you can open, as is most often the case, you will need to make further design decisions. The following are some of the more common operational window types:

- Side Casement: The window panel swings out on hinges attached to the left or right vertical frame.
- Awning Casement: Swing type hinges attach to the top frame, allowing ventilation during wet weather,
- Hopper Casement: The opposite of awning casements, the hinges are locked on the bottom frame.
- Side Slider: Windows slide horizontally, with left and right panels both being operable panels.
- Single Hung: These traditional up/down opening windows have one fixed panel and one operable.
- Double Hung: with both panels moving vertically, these windows allow top and bottom venting in enclosed areas.
This Spring, you will likely have many purchase options so you should try to be as informed as possible. Making the right window decision now, will benefit you in many ways for years to come.

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