Replacing your windows is a big project that can be expensive. But if you choose the right window type, you can save energy, improve your home’s look and protect your furnishings from damaging UV rays.
A trustworthy window installation company can help you select from a variety of frame materials, each with distinct price points and energy-saving capabilities. Some of the most common options include vinyl, fiberglass, composite and wood.
Double-Hung Windows
Window replacement professionals can install double-hung windows based on your design preferences, efficiency goals and cost concerns. They also offer a wide range of glass and frame options to suit your aesthetic tastes and budget.
Energy-efficient double-hung windows feature a fixed upper window and operable lower sash. They’re a good choice for Macomb homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s insulating capabilities.
They come in a variety of materials, including fiberglass and vinyl, which are available with added insulating foam. They’re also customizable and available in a number of different color combinations. Energy Star-certified double-hung windows can save homeowners $437+ a year in energy costs.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows have an upper, fixed sash and a lower, movable sash. You can lower the top sash to let hot air escape or lift the bottom sash to bring in cool air. They’re less expensive than double-hung windows and have fewer moving parts.
Window costs depend on material, size, and other factors. Wood windows are more expensive than vinyl, and fiberglass is usually in the middle of the pack.
Energy efficiency is a major concern for many homeowners, and a good place to start looking is with your home’s single-hung windows. Look for options that are certified by Energy Star and have low-E coatings and argon gas insulation.
Casement Windows
If you’re looking for a replacement window that opens wide, casement windows offer the best options. These windows hinge at the side and open outward using a handle that cranks the supporting frame to the left or right.
They also come in versions that feature no muntins, creating large windows with unbroken views of your landscape. The sleek frames that comprise these windows add contemporary style to any home and match well with any architectural style.
They’re easier to use than double-hung windows, and they can be opened with a crank in places where sliding sash windows would be difficult to maneuver. They also create a tighter seal that improves energy efficiency.
Bay and Bow Windows
Unlike regular windows that sit flat against a home, bay and bow windows have a curved appearance with multiple window panes. They’re a popular choice for traditional and contemporary home styles. They add a sense of grandeur to rooms and may even include a bench or reading area.
They’re a unique option that allows you to let in a lot of air without sacrificing your view. Some are operated with a crank handle while others tilt in or open fully like hopper windows. They’re also available in a variety of materials and frames to suit your needs. However, they tend to cost more than other window types.
Contemporary Windows
Window installation costs vary by size and style. Small picture windows and standard single- or double-hung windows are the cheapest to replace, while large bay and bow windows cost the most.
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows. They cost more upfront, but reduce cooling costs by reducing how much heat is lost through your windows. They also protect your belongings from fading caused by the sun’s UV rays.
Other types of replacement windows include tilt-turn and hopper windows. Tilt-turn windows tilt inward to let in some fresh air, while hopper windows hinge at the bottom and open inward. Both are available from several window replacement companies.
Colonial Windows
Colonial homes are characterized by their symmetry and order, and this aesthetic is reflected in the windows that grace these homes. While traditional colonial windows feature small, divided panes of glass, today’s technology allows us to create a single large windowpane that is more energy efficient. Simulated divided lites and mullions are also available to maintain the historic appearance of these windows.
Double-hung windows are the quintessential choice for colonial-style homes as they maintain the symmetrical look with two operable sashes. However, you can also opt for casement windows that open outward with a crank to offer unobstructed views and superior ventilation. Bay windows are also an option for enhancing the symmetry of your Colonial home with a protruding window.