Why Choose Premium Replacement Windows?
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Feeling a draft in your bedroom? Or does your home feel like an oven during the summertime? Too much noise from your neighbors? If any of these issues exist, you may need to replace your windows. You can choose ordinary windows from a box-store, but if you are wanting greater insulation and increased energy efficiency, premium replacement windows are the best choice.
A premium replacement window is made-to-measure for an existing window frame. It is designed to be installed without having to remove the exterior siding or window trim, which would make the project more expensive. There are many window styles on the market. Considerations include the style, shape, color, and functionality.
Technology upgrades have made premium replacement windows more attractive. Innovations include greater wind-resistance windows for high-wind. Low-emissivity (Low-e) coatings provide an extra layer of insulation. Argon gas-filled windows block more heat making it a great insulator. Newer windows with UV protection from the sun can protect your furniture, walls, and flooring. There are even window sensors that provide another layer of security by letting the homeowner know that the windows are closed properly.
Benefits of Premium Replacement Windows
Premium replacement windows offer long-lasting and cost-saving benefits. Not only do they improve the appearance of your home, but new windows are more energy-efficient than ever. Here are some of the top reasons to consider installing premium replacement windows for your next home improvement project.
- Easy maintenance. Premium replacement windows are now easier to clean and maintain. With tilt-in capabilities, maintenance is no longer an issue.
- Enhance the appearance of your home. With so many window styles and colors available, your home’s curb appeal will increase significantly. Replacement windows can offer a fresh look to any type of home.
- Add value to your home. With the addition of premium replacement windows, your home’s value could increase. If you are trying to sell your home, upgrading the windows could be a good investment. Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs Value Report” found that you'll recoup much of your investment when you sell your home. The payback on four replacement wood or vinyl windows was at least two-thirds of what the window project cost. Wood windows gave the greatest rate of return at 73.3%.
- Better security. Replacement windows with multiple locks protect you from break-ins. Premium windows are tested to prevent forced entry for increased security. Their resistance to heavy winds prevents breakage.
- Insurance savings. Insurance companies offer credits or reduced premiums for certain upgrades to your home. Because premium replacement windows provide enhanced security and resistance to damages, they may lower your premiums.
- Improved insulation. Premium windows can now be filled with argon and krypton gases that help keep air from escaping your home, thus providing better insulation. Gas-filled replacement windows reduce heat loss which is useful for homes during the colder months.
- Energy efficiency - Windows are one of the main sources of energy loss. Double or triple-pane replacement windows with coatings can greatly improve energy efficiency in your home. Check energy star levels when buying new windows. Energy labels can be researched using the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) energy reviews.
Is it Time to Replace those Old Windows?
Knowing when your windows need to be replaced is important. Examine your existing windows and frames for air leaks. If you notice the following issues during your inspection, your next step is to start your search for premium replacement windows.
- Window sills and frames are deteriorating due to rotting, corrosion, physical damage, or weathering.
- Your windows do not operate properly. They are hard to open and close.
- You plan to put your home on the market.
- Windows are foggy and drafty.
Choosing the Right Window
There are a few decisions you need to make before having your windows installed. Home design, climate, colors, and personal preference all play a factor in which type of windows serve best.
Window Styles
There are many window styles to choose from. The design of the home and budget will help determine the best style for your home. Below are the types of window styles, ranked in order of popularity:
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- Double-hung windows slide vertically and tilt in for easy cleaning. They usually contain low-profile locks so that they cannot be seen from the outside.
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- Siding windows, also known as gliding windows, offer a clean and elegant look. They provide unobstructed views and fit well in large spaces.
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- Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward. They provide unobstructed views, are easy to clean and provide good ventilation.
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- Awning windows are often referred to as crank windows. These windows are hinged at the top. Awning windows are made for openings in which the width is greater than the height. Awning windows open outward fully. They provide maximum ventilation and natural light. They work well in places where ventilation is required, such as in a bathroom or kitchen and are also commonly used in a sitting room, where unobstructed views are desired.
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- Single-hung windows slide vertically from the bottom to provide ventilation. They cost less than double-hung windows.
Bay windows are usually made of 3 windows, with the center window being the largest. They enhance the home’s curb appeal.
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- Bow windows usually have 3 to 6 windows that protrude outward to form an arch. They can make a small room look larger. They will add major curb appeal to any home.
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- Custom shaped windows allow for special design options and more natural light to enter your home. These windows are great for hard to reach places such as staircases and tops of existing doors.
Window Frame Materials
After choosing a window style, you must consider the material of the window frame. There are 5 main options available: vinyl, wood, composite, fiberglass and aluminum.
- Vinyl frames are the most common type of window frame. They are moisture-resistant and a good value. Vinyl frames also provide a great amount of insulation. This material does not peel, crack or fade. It cannot be painted.
- Wood frames are good insulators and help regulate a home’s temperature and prevent condensation. They can be stained and painted, which offers more color availability.
- Composite window frames are composed of more than one material but have the look and strength of wood. Other benefits include greater durability, rot resistance, and low maintenance.
- Fiberglass frames are very stable and durable. Fiberglass window frames can be filled with insulation to make them more energy efficient.
- Aluminum window frames are strong and light, but this material conducts heat quickly, which leads to poor insulation. Components can be added to aid in improving the loss of air.
Glass Package Options
Reducing energy costs is one great benefit of replacing your old windows with new premium windows. The glass in the windows is a large factor in energy savings. If you want to lower your monthly energy bills, choosing a high-quality window is your best choice. It’s important to understand the components that create an energy-efficient glass package.
- Double and Triple Pane Glass: Premium replacement windows offer both double and triple pane glass options. Double pane includes two panes of glass with an airspace in the middle. Triple pane glass adds an extra pane of glass and an additional airspace. This extra pane provides increased energy savings and sound-blocking capabilities.
- Argon Gas: This is an invisible and odorless gas inserted between the glass panes, usually in double pane windows. The purpose of gas-filled windows is to increase the thermal efficiency or insulation of the window.
- Low-Emissivity Glazing: Low-e is an invisible coating that is thinner than the width of a human hair. It can be applied on the outside or inside pane of glass. Low-E coatings reduce heat transfer to your home. Sunlight is reflected outside to help keep your home cooler in the summer months. It works conversely during the winter, by allowing sunlight to enter through the glass for greater warmth.
Choose the Best Premium Window Brands
Pella is one of the leading manufacturers of premium replacement windows. They’ve been around since 1925, offering various window styles, components, and designs for every type of home. According to Consumer Reports, Pella vinyl, wood and composite windows all came out on top as best performer among replacement windows. It ranked best in rain and wind resistance categories, as well.
Simonton Premier Windows is another top replacement window brand. These award-winning windows have been around for 70 years, consistently improving in quality and functionality. Simonton offers a range of window styles, frames, and technical upgrades. In 2017, Remodeling Magazine named Simonton vinyl windows #1 in quality and performance.
Leave It to The Experts
If you’ve encountered an increase in your energy bill or notice any rotting around your windows, consider buying premium replacement windows. When ready to buy and install, you want a preferred contractor to handle the job. Banner Construction is a leading contractor serving the St. Louis and St. Charles metro areas since 1993.
We have been improving homes and producing satisfied customers as a result. We want to add you to our list of satisfied homeowners. If you’re looking for an expert in premium window and door installation, contact us for a free consultation.