Replacement Windows

Home replacement windows are an excellent way to make your home more energy efficient. With today’s rising heating costs it makes sense to evaluate the need to replace your old drafty windows. Replacement windows can be purchased to fit any opening and match most any house style. Before ordering replacement windows you should consider some basic options.

Window Type – The architectural style of your home will dictate the most appropriate window type. If you live in a colonial home for instance you’ll want to consider double-hung windows. If you live in a contemporary home you may want to consider casement windows. Ideally you’ll want to choose a window type that matches the existing windows unless that style wasn’t appropriate for the house.

Window Construction – There are several basic construction types available. You can choose vinyl replacement windows, wood replacement windows or fiberglass replacement windows. Typically the driving force with this decision is the cost. Vinyl replacement windows will be the cheapest option and wood windows are typically the most expensive option.

Energy Rating – Regardless of which type of replacement window you buy, make sure that you buy the most energy efficient window you can afford. There are several factors to pay attention to, they include: U values (0.33 or lower is good), solar heat gain coefficient (0.40 to 0.55 is good) and an Air leakage of less than 0.30 cfm/ft^2 is recommended.

So if you have old windows you should really consider replacement windows. By installing high quality replacement windows you should be able to save energy and therefore save money over time.

Home » Energy Conservation, Windows

Submitted by Todd on September 15, 2008 – 9:12 pmNo Comment