Window Buying Guide 2021

How to Choose the Right Windows

Our homes do a lot of things.  They provide shelter, first and foremost.  They’re the setting for so many of life’s memories.  And they’re often as unique as we are.  So given the importance our homes play in our everyday lives, it’s important to take care of them.  

Take windows for instance.  Oftentimes, most people never really notice the role a window serves in both the aesthetic and performance of a home.  It’s interesting especially since one of the top factors you hear in real estate circles is “curb appeal” when shopping for a new home or putting it on the market.  

Let’s focus on the visual for a moment.  Sometimes referred to as the “eyes” of a home, it makes sense when you consider how we use them to see the outside world.  And depending on the architectural style of your dwelling, the windows may even have an integral connection to the overall design of the space.

From a performance standpoint, not only do windows protect us from the elements, but they also allow the outside in–in the form of fresh air.  And the act of letting in a breeze is something that can take place over and over and over again.       

So what happens when you realize you need to replace your windows?  If you’ve come to that realization, you’re already ahead of the curve!  Most people just learn to live with their old windows and suffer the consequences on many fronts.  Not you though – you get it and we get it too, which is why you’ll want to read further to discover just how choosing the right windows is something within your grasp.    

So what type of windows are you looking to replace?

Window styles come in a wide variety of shapes and styles, but the process of replacing them shouldn’t be a daunting task.  

Any home improvement project or renovation has a certain level of preparation and planning to ensure it goes off without a hitch.  From the mundane (like painting a wall), to the more complex (like a gut renovation), the work you do up front can make all the difference in the world.  

To begin, her are some basics about window types and mechanics to help you understand the actual differences and help make your project more understandable–sort of a window buying guide for you to use:

Is it square, round or a bit of both?

While there are a number of different window styles available, they essentially can be grouped into a few categories.  

When it comes to basics, you can’t get any simpler than a picture window.  The name is a nod to the way in which it just serves to frame whatever you see through it.  They’re typically large and they don’t open.  

The most common window type, and probably the one you’re most familiar with, is called a double-hung window.  Typically constructed with two movable sashes (more on those later), this window style emanates from the United Kingdom and was brought to the U.S. during colonization.  They can be found in homes of all varieties… from a traditional Cape Cod to modern homes with a more traditional design. 

What’s a sash exactly?  It’s merely the part of the window that moves and holds the glass panes together.  It sits inside the actual window frame, which fits in the actual opening of your wall.  

Speaking of sashes… what do you get when you flip a double-hung window on its side?  Essentially, you get a sliding (or gliding) window.  Same functionality, just a different application depending on the space and operating need.  

Another typical window type is called a casement window.  It’s another “movable” window with hinges on the side so that it opens and closes similar to a door.  It has a crank handle that controls the opening and closing motion. 

Similar to a casement window, an awning window has hinges on the top so they can open outward from the bottom, which is great for ventilation especially when it’s raining.  They’re also often found installed high up on a wall to get the best of both worlds with privacy and natural light.     

Frequently referred to interchangeably, bay and bow windows while similar have some very distinct characteristics unto themselves.  A bay window is comprised of three sectioned windows–a picture window in the center, flanked by two other windows of a different style (like a double hung).  A bow window uses the same style of window in each section, giving the combined assembly a rounded effect.  

And then there’s the special shape category.  Perhaps used as an accent or in conjunction with several of the same style to make a bold statement, these windows are within a category all their own.  

Are all window materials equal?  

The simple answer is no.  The more detailed answer is, it depends on what the project calls for.  

Wood windows have been used for hundreds of years.  Wood is warm.  It’s organic.  And because you can paint or stain it, the ability to make your windows an extension of the overall design of your living space is definitely an option.  However, wood does require some level of maintenance, especially when exposed to the elements.  In that case, you could opt for a wood window with an aluminum clad exterior for increased protection and design flexibility since they do come in multiple colors.   

How about fiberglass?  The benefits of fiberglass are many–you can paint it, it requires little maintenance and it’s virtually indestructible.  Plus, you can get it in a variety of colors depending on the manufacturer.    

Then there’s composite, which is a combination of mixed materials (like resins and fiberglass) and is also a lower maintenance material with superior durability.  They also won’t warp, rot or suffer from expansion and contraction.    

Vinyl windows are a great option especially if cost is a factor.  Did you know that vinyl windows are the most commonly found in the entire market?  It’s true and while you wouldn’t want to paint them, they do come in a limited number of colors (although white is the #1).  

What’s the ROI?  

So you think you’re ready to make the investment to replace your windows.  At some point you’re going to ask, “what’s in it for me?”  That’s where energy-efficiency comes into the conversation.  Old windows with faulty seals and frames that are warped and rotted are the equivalent of throwing your hard-earned money away.  Just look at your next utility bill during extreme temperature swings.  Check out this link to a previous story we featured on energy efficiency.

Hopefully this window replacement guide will do the trick.  One final word on how to choose the right windows for your home–your local expert at WindowRama is just a phone call/e-mail away, so let us know what you have in mind or if your questions haven’t been addressed here.