Windows play a critical role in defining the ambiance of your home while providing ventilation and picturesque views. They also help reduce energy costs by slowing heat transfer and absorbing UV rays that can damage furniture, carpets and artwork.
When buying new windows, choose a provider that offers a detailed project plan, reasonable timeline and clear expectations. Look for quality brands that provide a range of frame options and power-saving window options.
Double-Hung Windows
ENERGY STAR rated double-hung windows improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. They are also durable, long-lasting, and protect interior furnishings from damaging UV rays. Typically, they cost between $300 and $3,100 each.
Window companies offer different frame and glass options to suit your style preferences. Choose framing material that complements your home’s architectural design. For example, wood clad windows balance artistry with reliability, featuring beautiful wood inside and protective metal cladding outside.
When it comes to window glass, consider a variety of energy-saving options such as argon gas-filled double or triple panes and Low-E coatings. These additions add to your window costs but will pay for themselves in energy savings. Also, choose a window size and customizations that are easy for contractors to install.
Casement Windows
Unlike double-hung windows, casement windows hinge from one side and open like a door for superior ventilation. They have solid frames without the view-obstructing sashes that separate the panes, and they can be fitted with insulated glass certified to meet local energy codes. This reduces heat transfer, lowering your utility bills.
They also provide a wide-open view that complements any architectural style and are easy to clean. Since they’re side-hinged, they are also a strong deterrent against burglars looking for easy entry points into your home. They can also be glazed with spectrally selective low-E tints that minimize UV penetration and slow furniture fading. The windows can also be combined with other window types and shapes to form Bays or Bows. They make excellent egress windows to help meet emergency escape requirements.
Awning Windows
The top sash on these windows is fixed while the bottom opens using a crank system. They are a popular window option for Tuscaloosa AL homeowners looking to add natural light and improve ventilation. They are also easy to open for those with mobility issues and have good energy efficiency when paired with argon or low-E glass.
Bay and Bow windows add a unique architectural flair to your home and allow natural light into areas of the house that would otherwise be dark. They can be combined with double-hung or casements for maximum function and a more attractive appearance. Many of these styles are available with insulated options to reduce your utility costs during the hot Alabama summers. Renewal by Andersen offers a wide selection of window styles and long warranties for their products.
Sliding Windows
Unlike double-hung windows that open vertically, sliding windows move horizontally to offer ventilation and a wide view. They are a popular choice among Tuscaloosa AL homeowners for their versatility and modern aesthetic.
These windows are hinged from one side and slide open using a mechanical crank. They are a great way to bring in fresh air during a warm or rainy day without letting your home get soaked.
These windows are a good option for historic homes and feature wood frames that insulate well. They can also be made energy-efficient by adding argon gas between the window panes. This will help keep your home warmer during the winter and cooler in the summer. These windows can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any space.
Bay and Bow Windows
Choosing the right window installation style has an impact on your home’s aesthetic and energy efficiency. The style you choose also influences how much light ingress your home gets. For example, double-hung and casement windows are classic options for many Tuscaloosa homes with traditional architecture, but bay and bow windows have unique advantages.
These window types add architectural flair to your space by creating a cozy indoor nook and expanding your views of the outdoors. They can also boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value when you sell it. They are designed to maximize natural light, improve ventilation with operable side panels, and offer panoramic outdoor views. They are especially attractive in modern-style homes with a blend of traditional and contemporary features.