Window selection is one of the most important decisions you will make in enhancing the value and enjoyment of your home. Many factors should be considered in the decision making process. Our knowledgeable consultants are available to answer your questions and make the best decision for your needs. We listen to your needs and will offer our customers our honest opinion, even if that is to repair the existing windows instead of replacing them. Of course, if you decide to replace your windows, our expert installers will make sure the job is done properly and to your satisfaction. We offer many different choices in window selection. They are available in a variety of materials and configurations.
Most common materials are aluminum, vinyl, wood, and aluminum or vinyl cladding on the exterior of the wood. If the framing around the window is reasonably sound, a replacement type window can be installed into the existing frame. This is generally much less expensive than ripping out the complete frame and doing a “brick to brick” installation.
Double Hung windows have an upper and lower sash that both operate by sliding up and down. They have some type of spring mechanism that supports the weight of the sashes allowing them to stay in the selected position.
Casement windows are hinged on one side and either crank or push out. They typically offer better ventilation than double hung windows but may not be practical for very large openings where they are prone to sag. They also may not be desirable where the window opens to a deck area or where the open window will project into a walkway. Crank out windows are often used over a sink where a double hung may be difficult to reach and operate.
Sliding windows move horizontally from side to side. They usually have rollers that facilitate the movement of the window from side to side. They can be used in applications where the width of the window exceeds the height. Using them where the width is much smaller than the height can cause them to tilt to one side when trying to operate. They can also be suitable over a sink where a double hung window may be hard to operate.
Awning windows are hinged from the top and swing out from the bottom. They are a good choice when the window is much wider than tall and where it is preferable for the window to open towards the outside. They are available in push out or crank out versions.
Hopper windows are hinged from the bottom and swing in from the top. They are a good choice when the window is much wider than tall and where it is preferable for the window to open to the inside.
All of the above windows are available in single glazed or with insulated glass for improved energy efficiency. In addition, they can be provided with muntin bars between or on the glass (also referred to as grids) to give the appearance of having multiple panes of glass in the window.
Materials:
Vinyl windows are generally the least expensive but lack the rigidity of aluminum or wood. Vinyl is also prone to cracking or warping over time. They offer very good insulation. Color selection is limited.
Aluminum windows are only slightly more expensive than vinyl but offer superior rigidity. They do not warp or crack unless they are subjected to severe abuse. Although aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat, the current better quality aluminum windows have a thermal break that provides energy efficiency close to the vinyl but with much more rigidity. They are available in several standard colors and can be custom painted at additional cost to a specific color.
Wood windows are generally much more expensive than aluminum, but offers several advantages including rigidity, and good insulation value. The wood can be painted to any desired color. They require maintenance on the exterior to keep them in good shape unless they are clad with vinyl or aluminum. They are often used in landmark situations or maintaining the original appearance of the house or building is important.
Fire Rated Steel windows can be used where fire rating is necessary. They are quite expensive, but often required in lot line applications, public hallways of apartment buildings, elevator motor rooms etc. Consult your building architect or engineer to determine if a fire rated window is required.