Are your old windows damaged, or looking tired?

If you’re thinking of replacing them, you have a wide array of options that can be quite intimidating.

What benefits does each type of window give you? Which style suits the aesthetic of your home? What materials should you choose?

If you need to choose new windows, read on to discover the six things that will help you make the right window choice.

1. How Many Windows Need Replacing?

Necessity or desire are the key reasons for replacing windows. Necessity is usually due to damage or wear over time. The desire for a particular look or style gives you more freedom to pace the repairs to suit your budget.

You may want to do a room at a time, or a section of the house. Knowing how many windows need to be replaced is the starting point for determining your budget. Your budget can have an influence on your styling.

2. Picking a Window Style

Choose your style according to the look that suits your home, affordability, and energy rating. The most commonly available options are:

• Double-Hung Windows
• Single Hung Windows
• Tilt-Out Windows
• Sliding Windows
• Bay and Bow Windows

3. Window Material

Choosing window material will influence the aesthetics of your home, as well as how much maintenance the window frames will need. There are four main options available:

Wood

Wooden windows offer good-looking quality. Changing the look of them is simple. You can stain or paint them in a host of different colors.

As far as maintenance goes, wooden window frames do require effort and will need to be stained or painted every so often.

Aluminum

When it comes to durability and strength, aluminum is a clear winner. Due to the strong nature of aluminum, even thing frames can support large glass panels. Maintenance isn’t a major factor with aluminum windows.

The drawbacks of aluminum are its inability to keep heat or cold in or out, and few options for customization.

Fiberglass

Consider fiberglass as an alternative to vinyl. It’s durable and highly effective at sealing the gaps around windows.

Vinyl

Vinyl window frames can be highly energy-efficient and airtight, require no maintenance, and are easy to clean. The installations process is simple and straightforward. Cons to consider: Vinyl isn’t recyclable, design flexibility is limited and darker colors will lighten over time.

4. Window Glass

Modern window glass opens up a world of options. Colors, patterns, and practical qualities such as the ability to reflect sun rays or hold in heat. Some glass qualities can be improved by adding coatings.

5. Consider the Climate

Take the window climate ratings into account and find ones most suited to the conditions of your home. If you experience high winds, look for good wind resistance.

Is it cold where you live? Choose windows that are designed for low temperatures.

6. Window Purpose

What do you need the window for? Understanding the purpose of a window will help you decide what to choose.

Some windows are purely functional to increase ventilation. Other windows are decorative, to enhance and frame the view. Others are non-opening and meant as a decorative accent.

Choosing New Windows Made Simple

Your windows influence the look of your home from inside and out. Choosing the right windows will affect the comfort level inside your home too.

If you’ve found this article helpful, you’ll find more great info under our Home Advice tab.