Your Window Buying Guide
Whether you’re building a new house or upgrading your existing one, conscious thought should be put into choosing the right windows for your home. Although style and curb appeal are important factors to consider, the energy efficiency and installation process of new windows should also be prioritized in your decision. Custom-made windows are the ultimate option, precisely measured to fit your home and installed by factory-trained professionals. We’ve compiled a helpful guide to consider when buying new windows for your home.
Timeless Window Styles
In order to get the most out of your new windows, it’s important to choose a style that not only complements your home but will remain timeless for years to come. To help you narrow it down, we’ve compiled a list of the most timeless window styles that will suit your home and can even help with the resale value in the future.
Bow & Bay Windows
This style consists of a set of three and four windows that protrude from your home. They offer plenty of natural lighting, provide extra space and can make rooms appear larger. Bay and bow windows add character, style, and distinction to the inside and outside of your home.
Experts at Maritime Door & Window can help you customize your bay or bow window design to perfectly complement your space.
Casement Windows
Perhaps the most popular of any style, casement windows are seen on many typical Canadian homes. Casement windows feature unobstructed views with a large glass area, have an airtight seal for energy efficiency.
These windows look good on their own but also complement other styles very nicely. Customize these windows to suit your home with simulated divided lights (SDL), grills, your choice of colours and more. The options are not only timeless but endless with casement windows.
Single Hung Windows
Single and double-hung windows have been used for many years in a variety of different styles of homes. Their traditional style is a testament to their timelessness. You can’t go wrong with these windows, they are versatile, charming and their space-saving design means they can be opened without consuming exterior space. Single hung windows are ideal for patio, porches, and walkways.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency has become an increasingly important factor when considering new windows. Homeowners are looking for energy-conscious ways to minimize the cost of cooling and heating their homes. National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and Energy Star are independent rating agencies, research and/or ask an experienced window professional for guidance. Not all Low E coatings are created the same therefore you should ensure that Low E coating is designed for our climate.
Here are some important energy-efficient terms to look out for when buying new windows:
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): indicates the amount of solar gain through a pane of glass. It ranges from 0 to 100. The higher the number, the better the solar gain.
- Energy Rating: (ER) value is calculated using a formula that balances a product’s U-value with its potential solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and its airtightness. The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the product.
- Premium Vinyl: an excellent insulator. Thermal properties are far superior to aluminum, steel and stainless steel.
- Spacer Systems: Unique spacer systems, made of highly thermally prohibitive materials, placed between the glass panes further reduce temperature transfer.
- Glass Coatings: Products available with Low E glass, allows short-wave energy to pass through, but reflects long-wave infrared energy for greater thermal efficiency.
There are plenty of attractive, energy-efficient windows that will suit your efficiency and aesthetic desires. Another tip for optimizing the efficiency of your windows is working with professional window installation companies. Hiring expert installers will also ensure you attain the expected energy savings and windows will perform as designed.
Professional Installation Matters
Improper window installation will cause a barrage of problems for both the builder and buyer. When choosing windows, there is a tried and true rule of thumb; you get what you pay for. For instance, although flashing and caulking is the cheapest part of window installation, if it’s not done properly then it can result in extensive and expensive problems. Moreover, using too much expanding foams and sealants to get a window to fit properly can also lead to water penetration and window operational issues. While cost is certainly important, it’s even more crucial to choose a quality product that is installed by a reputable company that will ensure energy savings, ease of use, and low maintenance to hold up over time.
Working with a professional and established window company will help you make informed decisions on buying new windows that will best suit the needs and style of your home. The professional design and installation experts at Maritime Door & Window can help you choose the best windows for your home.
GET STARTED
- You can call us to talk to our knowledgeable staff
- Fill out our Create Your Dream form to describe your window or door project
- Or visit us at our 118 Albert Street showroom to see us in person.
Call Us: 857-8108
GET STARTED
- You can call us to talk to our knowledgeable staff
- Fill out our Create Your Dream form to describe your window or door project
- Or visit us at our 118 Albert Street showroom to see us in person.