When you’re replacing windows, you want the new ones to add beauty and functionality to your home. You also need them to be durable, energy efficient, and affordable.
Choosing the right window replacement brand can make a huge difference. You should look for a provider with Energy Star certification, affordable options, and customer feedback.
Aesthetics
Choosing the right window type for your home will not only improve its visual appeal, but also help reduce your energy costs. Look for windows that are designed to minimize heat transfer and block harmful UV rays. Choose a provider that offers a wide selection of window styles and sizes as well as a comprehensive warranty.
Look for window types that open vertically to allow ventilation and provide a full view of the outdoors. Double-hung windows are a popular option, with upper and lower sashes that open by sliding or tilting up and down. These are also available with a space between the panes filled with inert gas like argon to increase efficiency.
For a more dramatic new look, consider bay or bow windows. These protrude from the house wall in a three-dimensional arc, creating a cozy reading nook or dining area. They are also available with mullions to provide the traditional divided-pane look without compromising efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
Aside from enhancing the aesthetics of your home, new windows can also improve its energy efficiency. Look for a local provider that offers long-lasting window brands and power-saving options that slow thermal transfer and reduce utility bills.
ENERGY STAR rated windows keep warm air inside during cold Alabama winters and cool air in during hot summers. The u-value of a window is a helpful tool to determine the right window for your climate.
Double pane windows with a gap between them filled with inert argon help increase energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and outside noise. They also reduce the workload for HVAC systems during seasonal changes.
Casement windows open by hinge on either side and provide unobstructed views and greater ventilation compared to sliding windows. They are easy to operate and can be combined with double hung windows on either side to create Bay windows. Bay windows add a beautiful curved appearance to homes and offer more interior space.
Durability
A good local window provider will use long-lasting products that have been designed to withstand the elements. It will offer flexible options for customization and the industry’s best warranty coverage. They will also have a track record of installing durable replacement windows for Tuscaloosa homeowners.
Energy efficiency is another important factor when selecting a new window type for your home. Properly insulated Alabama replacement windows will slow thermal transfer, cutting your energy costs throughout the year. They will also help keep your house cooler in the summer, reducing the amount of work your air conditioning has to do.
Double-hung windows, casement windows, and sliding windows are popular choices for contemporary homes. Bay and bow windows protrude from the wall, adding elegance and creating cozy alcoves. They provide unobstructed views and ample natural light. Energy-efficient storm windows can improve insulation in older homes without damaging their original frames or classic look. They are often made with low-e glass and aluminum cladding that provides improved acoustic properties.
Security
Window security is a crucial factor in any home renovation project. The type of installation style you choose will impact your energy efficiency, aesthetics and cost. Look for a local provider that offers an extensive selection of windows and is AAMA certified to provide quality craftsmanship. This ensures that your windows will be durable, weather resistant and long-lasting. You should also verify that they offer ENERGY STAR certification and are made from long-lasting materials with enhanced UV protection.
Double hung windows are a versatile option that can be opened and closed from either side, which allows for ventilation and provides a full view of the outdoors. Awning and casement windows hinge on the side and open outward with a crank handle. They provide unobstructed views and more ventilation than sliders. They can be configured with muntins for a divided pane look without compromising energy efficiency. Bay and bow windows are another popular choice, as they create a curved appearance and extra space inside your home.