Windows and doors provide the practical purpose of keeping out unwanted weather elements, pests, and intruders, but they also frame our views. If you are planning to update your windows and doors, there are tips to take into consideration before settling on your choice. No matter the style of your home, Pella has many options to make your home unique.
Pella is the top brand for high-quality windows and doors. Hiring a trained and qualified Pella window and door installer also helps with choosing the right style that best compliments your home.
Factors to Consider Before Making a Decision
If you haven’t replaced your windows or doors in a while, you probably aren’t aware of the many different choices that Pella has to offer. Single-hung and double-hung windows are the most common types of windows. Knowing what you need can help you decide which type of window or door is best for you and your home.
Safety often affects your choice of windows and doors. It is especially important if you have children and pets.
Cleaning and maintenance help your windows and door last longer. Some windows are more difficult to clean than others. Depending on the type of window and material you choose, maintenance can be a breeze. Some have tilt-in features while others have moving parts that increase the risk of wear and tear.
The appearance and style of windows and doors greatly enhance the curb appeal of a home. Certain windows and doors add different types of looks such as traditional, modern, or classical. The architecture of your home can help you determine which type of windows and doors along with the colors to choose.
Cost and installation are important considerations when choosing a window or door style. Some items take more time to install due to the size and weight of the window or door. Pella has products to fit most budgets.
Windows and Doors for Different Types of Homes
When it comes to modifying your home’s exterior appearance, replacing windows and doors is one way to update the look. A home’s architecture can help guide you on which styles, colors, and features to choose from.
1. TRADITIONAL
A traditional home is a mix of several classic architectural styles such as Colonial, Cape Cod, and Georgian style homes. Traditional homes have a classic look and are usually constructed of brick, stone, or stucco. They generally have symmetrically placed windows of the same style.
When choosing windows for your traditional home, consider double-hung windows that have two window sashes within a single frame, and provide a clean look. Bay and bow style windows and traditional pattern window grilles are also great options. Traditional entryway doors are often made of wood, or fiberglass in wood stain finishes, providing a timeless and classic look.
2. CRAFTSMAN
Craftsman style homes are characterized by low-pitched roofs, porches with thick square columns, and exposed beams on both the exterior and interior of the home. Stained glass windows are also in keeping with the home’s design. Craftsman entry doors are typically made from solid wood with a decorative glass or divided-light window on top.
3. CONTEMPORARY
Contemporary homes can be characterized by clean lines, an asymmetrical design, flat roofs, and unembellished window choices. Contemporary homes are often bathed in sunlight, and frequently take advantage of skylight windows. Other window styles that work well in a contemporary home are fixed, sliding, and casement windows. Fixed windows do not open and provide great focal points with amazing views.
Sliding windows are another good option for a contemporary home as they provide a clean look and help maximize views. Casement windows, also known as crank windows, provide a clear view of the outdoors and are great options over counters. Entryway doors for contemporary homes are unadorned and sleek. The door windows are often in geometric shapes and often feature lever handle hardware in metallic finishes.
5. VICTORIAN
Victorian-style homes often feature bay windows, steep roofs, rambling porches, columns, and ornate moldings. The windows on Victorian homes are typically ornate, expansive, and varied. Good options to consider are double-hung, arched, bay or bowed, fixed, and special-shape windows.
Victorian entryways often use decorative glass panels. Choose wood doors with decorative embellishments. Bold colors are often found in traditional Victorian homes. Don’t be afraid to add a pop of color to the entryway door.
Is It Time to Replace Your Windows and Doors?
Not sure if you need to replace your windows or doors? Here are a few issues that will let you know it’s time for new Pella windows and doors.
- A Draft of Hot or Cold Air - Drafty windows and doors indicate that you have a problem. The hot air of summer and the cold air of winter should not enter through your closed windows and doors. Replacing weatherstripping is always a good idea but should be considered a temporary fix. The seals around windows and doors wear over time and will need replacing.
- Peeling Paint and Splitting - Window deterioration often begins at the sill and door deterioration on the bottom rail. If you have peeling paint and splitting wood, this allows moisture to penetrate the wood causing wood rot. Windowsills and doors with wood rot can lead to structural issues and can attract insects such as termites.
- Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Windows - Windows and doors should open, close, and lock with ease. Windows should also stay open on their own. When the balance no longer works, your windows become potentially dangerous. If your doors or windows are not working properly, it is time to contact a professional Pella window and door installer.
- Light Coming Through - When a window is closed, there should not be any light coming through at the sill or around the window casing. Likewise, when your exterior doors are closed you should not be able to see light streaming in from around the frame or threshold. Where light enters, water, insects, and rodents can as well.
- Condensation Between Windowpanes - Windows that are double and triple-paned contain a layer of air in between the glass that allows the window to better insulate your home. If you notice condensation forming in between the glass panes or you notice a film between the panes, your windows are no longer insulating as they should.
Benefits of New Pella Windows and Doors
We all know that new windows and doors are an investment, and you might be wondering if the cost is worth it. Replacing your windows and doors can yield a good return, improve energy efficiency, and create a quick home makeover.
AFFORDABLE HOME MAKEOVER
Compared to the price of many home renovation options, updating your windows and doors is an affordable way to transform both the exterior and interior of your home at one time. The many choices available by Pella® for customizing the appearance of your home is inspiring.
LOWER ENERGY BILLS
Well-insulated windows properly protect your home from the elements and keep your home more comfortable all year long. Energy-efficient windows insulate your home for the winter, decrease air conditioning use in the summer, and eliminate overall uneven heating and cooling throughout your home.
REDUCE NOISE
Correctly installed, high-quality windows and doors will reduce outside noise and increase your home’s privacy.
REDUCE FADING
Pella® offers several different types of glass options capable of blocking most of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. This helps to decrease fading on your interior furnishings. You can find a glass option to suit the climate you live in as well as your personal needs.
Why You Should Hire a Certified Pella Window Professional for Your Installation
Don’t ruin your investment by having just anyone install your beautiful Pella windows and doors. A certified Pella contractor has the industry, materials, and installation knowledge to be able to install them correctly. They stay on top of new trends and the latest technology.
Incorrect installation can result in energy loss. It can also affect your warranty. A qualified window contractor installs them right the first time so you can be sure they will function as they should.
Along with knowledge, the contractor’s experience is another factor to consider before you buy replacement windows. You should ask how long they’ve worked in the industry and how much experience the technicians have with installing Pella windows and doors.
At Banner Construction, we have years of experience and knowledge about all of Pella’s products. If you’re not sure where to start or what type of Pella windows or doors to choose, let us lead the way. Contact us today to begin your home’s transformation.