Windows play a huge role in your home’s energy efficiency, so you should focus on choosing a window type that meets Energy Star standards. This will help you reduce your heating and cooling bills while maintaining stable indoor temperatures.
Other certifications to consider include an NFRC label and BBB rating. These ratings indicate a company’s reputation and customer service skills.
Double-Hung Windows
When embarking on a window project, warranties are an essential aspect that can make a big difference in your satisfaction and the quality of work achieved. Many reputable companies offer lifetime warranties that cover both the materials and installation.
Compared to single-hung windows, double hung windows have two operable sashes that can slide up and down within the frame. This provides ventilation, allowing warm air to escape through the top while cooler fresh air comes in through the bottom.
These windows are ideal for new construction and replacement projects. They can also be retrofitted to older homes. Harvey double hung windows are available with ENERGY STAR rated glass packages to maximize energy efficiency.
Casement Windows
Due to their unique design, casement windows allow for superior ventilation and offer unobstructed views. However, just like other window types, they require regular cleaning and maintenance. They also tend to have higher energy efficiency rates. They are also easier to operate than double-hung windows.
As such, it is important to replace the cranks and hinges on your casement windows regularly. A reputable supplier like the Truth Window Hardware Company can provide durable replacement parts that can ensure your windows continue to work efficiently. Additionally, these parts are available in a variety of styles and materials. This allows you to match your windows to your style preferences.
Hopper Windows
Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open inward, similar to awning windows. They can be used in many rooms to provide light and ventilation. They work well in basements and bathrooms, but are also popular for laundry rooms because they can help to ventilate humid spaces while allowing sunlight to flood the room.
Since they often open close to the ceiling, hopper windows can be difficult to reach to open, close, or clean. They also can’t be opened wide enough to serve as a potential escape route in an emergency.
This makes them a better choice for rooms that you monitor regularly, but not those like garages and basements.
Fixed Windows
With a design that offers no moving parts, fixed windows can be found in various shapes and sizes. They allow for the maximum amount of natural light in a home, a factor that can help improve moods and boost productivity, according to Psychology Today.
Non-operable windows minimize heat loss in winter and inflow of hot air during summer, helping you save on energy bills. Their tight seal also enhances acoustic insulation, making them an ideal option for rooms where privacy is essential.
Retrofit windows are installed directly into the existing window frame and are a good choice for West Jordan homeowners who want to change the size of their windows without compromising their house’s structure. They are available in many styles and materials, including vinyl, wood, and aluminum.
Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows (or louvre windows in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and the United Kingdom) have parallel glass, acrylic, or wooden slats that can be opened and closed using a crank. They provide natural ventilation and let in a lot of sunlight without obstructing your view.
They are popular in tropical climates and certain architectural styles, but their energy efficiency and security risks have made them less common. They’re also difficult to keep clean and don’t accept traditional window screens, which could lead to insect infestations. Lastly, they’re often more expensive than other window types. The good news is that they’re easy to replace.
Tilt and Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are an elegant European design that combines style, functionality, and energy efficiency. They’re popular with modern homeowners for their unobstructed views, robust sealing, and ease of operation. They also have multiple locking points, enhancing security.
They provide controlled ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate in your home. When closed, they form a tight seal to prevent heat loss and drafts, reducing your energy bills.
Unlike traditional double-hung windows, tilt and turn windows allow you to open them from either side. This makes them safe for families with children and pets, minimizing the risk of accidental falls. They’re also easy to clean, requiring no sash lifting.