Windows can enhance your home’s aesthetics and help to lower energy bills. However, if they’re damaged or old, you might need to replace them. Signs that it’s time to get new windows include drafts, moisture between the window panes, or fading of the frames’ colors.
Choosing the right window style depends on your budget and home’s architecture. There are many types of replacement windows.
Double-Hung Windows
Windows are more than a view of the outdoors; they protect and insulate homes, reducing energy bills by stopping heat and air leakage. As much as 30 percent of the energy used in heating and cooling your home escapes through old or damaged windows, a loss that contributes to high electricity bills.
Double hung windows feature both upper and lower sashes that tilt inward for easy cleaning. Their versatility makes them ideal for rooms on the second floor or in areas where windows are difficult to access.
Casement Windows
With no sliding sash, casement windows open wide and offer top-notch ventilation. They are also easier to clean than double-hung or slider windows.
They’re ideal for home renovations that focus on a modern aesthetic, but you can add window grids and divided lite bars for an older design style. You can even mix them with other window styles, such as a pair of double-hung windows paired with a casement window in your kitchen.
Unlike sash windows, which can be tampered with by intruders, casement windows feature a knurled knob that’s difficult to grip. Some models also include slide bolts, which are a third point of security.
Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows feature parallel slats of glass or acrylic that open and close like Venetian blinds. They’re a great option for homes in warm climates, or for those seeking a unique style that’s reminiscent of bygone eras.
Their heyday peaked in the 1940s, and they’re still found on older homes in Southern climates, as well as in greenhouses and trailers. They’re not the best choice for home security, though, since their slats can easily be pried open. They also don’t create as tight of a seal as other window styles. Moreover, they require more maintenance due to their multiple working parts. This can increase project costs.
Tilt and Turn Windows
While they are still relatively new to the American market, tilt and turn windows offer a unique blend of security, energy efficiency, and flexibility. They are available in a wide range of custom shapes and sizes, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your project.
Tilt and turn windows are secure because they lock at multiple points along the window frame. This makes them more resistant to being forced open, which can be a concern for homeowners with children or pets.
Additionally, these windows have a tight seal that keeps out water and cold air, making them ideal for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills. This feature helps them achieve the Passive House Institute energy-efficiency standards.
Hopper Windows
Hopper windows are installed above or below picture windows, and they provide a room with airflow and a sleek appearance. They can have hinges on the bottom or the top, but they always open inward. This makes them a great choice for basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and children’s bedrooms.
When deciding on which window type to replace your home’s existing ones, consider your goals. Whether you want an unobstructed view or more ventilation, your priorities will determine the type of windows that are best for you. A trusted contractor can help you make the right decision. Moreover, they can also advise you on which window materials will work best for your West Jordan climate.
Fixed Windows
Also known as direct set windows, fixed windows allow natural light into your home but do not open and close for ventilation. They are popular in living rooms, dining rooms and master bedrooms where ventilation is not a primary concern.
These non-operational windows are available in many shapes and sizes. They look great on their own or combined with other window styles for a unique design.
Maintenance is easy with these windows since they do not have any moving parts. However, cleaning a fixed window from the outside might be difficult for some homeowners. Just answer a few questions about your project and get matched with top-rated local pros.