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Windows

picture of window

If you are feeling drafts from your old windows, maybe it's time to replace them. Advances in window technology have made windows more energy efficient than ever before. Installing new energy efficient windows can reduce your cooling and heating costs by as much as 50 percent. They also improve the look of your home from the outside as well as inside. Here are some basics you need to know before installing new windows.

There are 3 types of windows that make a huge difference in cost as well as energy efficiency. There is a standard single paned insulated window, a double paned insulated window, and a triple-paned window.


Three types of windows

1. Single pane windows- Single pane windows are not used any more in new construction. They are mostly found in older homes and buildings. The nice thing about single pane windows is they are usually easy to repair. The problem with these types of windows is that they are not insulated well so drafts come into the home easily.

2. Double pane windows- Double pane windows are windows with two pieces of glass with a gap of air (or gas, Argon for instance) between them. This gap of air provides a vapor barrier to help prevent heat loss and moisture due to condensation. These windows are energy efficient and are used in all types of building structures worldwide.

3. Triple pane windows- Triple pane windows are windows with three pieces of glass with a gap of air in between them. They are the most energy efficient window on the market today as well as the most expensive. Also the framing options on this window are limited because of its increased weight.

There are many types of windows out there, but there are six major style of windows.

Six major styles of windows

1. Awning windows- Awning windows are windows that have a hinge at the top and open outward. When positioned high on walls, awning windows can catch a breeze from any direction and provide light to a room while maintaining privacy. Also, they can be opened slightly to allow ventilation during rain showers.

2. Bay windows- Bay windows are window combinations that either extend outward from a home or create a curve. Bay window lets you maximize space and take advantage of multiple views. It also makes a room appear more open and spacious, increases the flow of light into a home, and can add counter area to a room.

3. Casement windows- Casement windows have a hinge on the side and crank outward. Casement windows give you unobstructed views top-to-bottom and side-to-side. They open fully catching breezes and directing the flow of fresh air into your home.

4. Double-hung windows- Double-hung windows open vertically with a sash that slides up and down. The advantage of double-hung windows is that you can open them without consuming exterior space, and with a tilt-wash version, you may never have to go outside to wash windows again. Also, the top sash can be opened for ventilation, providing an extra measure of safety in rooms with children.

5. Fixed windows- Fixed windows are stationary and often used to compliment other windows. For unobstructed views where ventilation is not a concern, fixed windows allow you to bring the outdoors in and make the most of available light.

6. Gliding windows- Gliding windows open horizontally with a sash that slides to the right. Some people find gliding windows easier to open than "crank-outs" such as casements and awnings. Also, the contemporary look of gliding windows makes them most appropriate for more modern home styles.

bay window
The option of Low-E an energy-saving glass is becoming popular among homeowners. It is designed to perform in all seasons to improve your home’s year-round comfort level and save money. Direct sunlight enters and brightens your home, while invisible radiant heat rays are not allowed to penetrate the glass surface and are reflected back to their source. This keeps out the summer's heat but allows the sun to warm us in winter. Low-E glass also blocks out many of the sun's harmful ultra violet rays that fade all kinds of fabric.

 


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