Inefficient windows contribute to 25%–30% of your energy costs due to excessive heat loss or gain. They contribute to high utility bills that you can avoid by replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones. However, choosing windows that best fit your area’s climate would be best before proceeding. Suppose you live in Michigan, one of the coldest regions in America, where the maximum average temperature is 14 degrees. In that case, you can consider windows that let the most sunlight into your home to keep it warm. However, many factors influence the choice of the perfect window for your home. To select a window that is both functional and stylish, you must first understand its following components:
Installation
Your windows should fit snugly between the frame and window sill. A poor window installation leaves gaps, which allows water to enter through them and potentially cause leaks and water damage. It can cause the wood from your windows to rot and the paint to chip. Proper installation is crucial for your windows to protect the house from the elements, especially if you live where it rains and often snows.
Suppose you live in West Michigan, which has an average of 136 rainy days yearly. The state also experiences heavy snowfall, accumulating around 43.5 inches annually. A poorly installed window would be unable to keep all that rainwater and snow out, causing extensive water damage. Hiring professional contractors who can properly install your window would be best in such situations.
However, 88% of contractors admit that hiring skilled labor is difficult. If you want quality service, search for trained contractors. Look for BBB-accredited companies, like All Weather Seal, to ensure a proper quality service. With around 43 years of business experience, they provide the best options for home windows and quality materials. They can help you choose window designs that best fit your home and guarantee complete satisfaction. Instead of an amateur window installation that uses a lot of sealants and foams, these professionals will focus on pre-installation waterproofing. They will take the extra time needed to ensure the windows fit well and work properly for a long time.
Frame
A window’s frame surrounds and supports the window. Without it, a window may collapse more quickly. This structure is also crucial to sustaining energy efficiency, as it can prevent gaps that allow heat to pass through. A Frame made of different materials offers unique benefits and personal charm. Some of the options include:
1. Vinyl
The average cost of installing a vinyl window is between $300 and $400, depending on the size, number, and size of the window. They are made from extremely strong and durable material. High-quality vinyl frames do not fade or peel and are low maintenance compared to wooden frames that regularly need sanding or refinishing. Vinyl frames also have a sleek and delicate appearance, giving your house a modern look.
2. Wood
Wooden frames are naturally thermal insulators, limiting heat loss and gain. This characteristic makes them highly energy efficient. Though wooden frames are vulnerable to rotting and moisture, they are better insulators than metal frames and can lower energy bills. Consider opting for a higher-quality wooden frame, which can cost around $1,300-$1,500 as a starting price per window. These frames are timelessly elegant and complement almost any house.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum window frames are highly durable and can last up to 30 years. They are more resistant to outside elements and less likely to corrode. No matter the weather, these frames are harder to dent, warp, or split. Their average cost is around $100 – $400. However, the price may vary. According to a report by the Index Box, the aluminum window price in America has recently decreased by 2%, making it an even more attractive option for homeowners looking for long-lasting and reliable window solutions.
Design
A window’s design significantly impacts how a house looks and functions. The amount of light that enters a room, the sights you can see, and the ambiance depends on your window. They come in multiple styles, shapes, and styles, including the following:
1. Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows have two moveable panels that slide up and down the frame and cost around $300-$650 to install per window. Their top and bottom parts are easily accessible and are easy to clean. However, they might be challenging to clean if you have difficulty raising and lowering your arms, as you need to adjust this window before cleaning. These windows have a classic charm that never goes out of style and suits every house.
2. Casement windows
Casement windows have a unique style, with a crank at the base that you can use as a lock to secure your home. They offer clear views from top to bottom, provide open ventilation, and create a unique look for your home. When closed, they keep the air inside and block drafts, making them energy-efficient. Their average cost is around $300 – $600, and they are one of the safest windows for your home. Casement windows have it all; functionality, convenience, and security.
3. Sliding windows
Sliding windows typically come larger, allowing more sunlight to flood your home. They have sashes that you can slide side-to-side, which is great for smaller homes that don’t have space for opening and shutting a window. They cost around $300 – $800 to install, but cleaning and maintaining their outside pane is more complicated. If you cannot remove your sliding windows from the frame, you’ll need to remove the outdoor screen to clean the windows from the outside.
Glass
Glass technology has improved significantly and has contributed to more energy-efficient windows. Argon gas is now inserted between the glass panes of some windows to minimize thermal transfer by 67%, preventing heat from escaping and maintaining the ideal inside temperature.
You can also add specific coatings to glass that block heat from the sun to make your home cooler in the summer. Some windows even have many layers of glass, which helps them to block out heat and noise. With these improvements, windows are now more energy-efficient and offer a cozy living environment all year round.
Conclusion
Your home’s windows are an integral part of your home’s structure. They are essential features of both the exterior and interior of your home. They enhance your house’s curb appeal and energy efficiency by letting sunlight enter your home. Investing in quality windows that suit your climate can safeguard your home against the elements and prevent damage.
