How to Choose a Window
Single-tilt or double? Fixed or not? Maybe a bow window? Or the bay type? Choosing your windows is not that hard until you look at the number of the available options. It’s also important to find the right vendor for your windows and doors replacement. The windows market is crazy! Here’s how not to get lost in it and get the best deal for your home renovation project.
Types of Windows
There are tons of types, but no one will deny that the choice of windows should begin with the type. There are three main types: the first one is casement, which works exactly like a door swinging toward you. The second option is divided into single-hung and double-hung windows.
These windows have fixed upper sashes and moveable lower ones, which makes them more energy efficient due to building insulation. The third type is called slider or gliding window and is also a double-hung window without stationary upper sashes. How to choose? If you are ready to face less space and functionality, gliding windows will save you some time and money.
Fixed or not?
It sounds a simple question. But there are more subquestions to it. For example, what if a sliding window is fixed? What if casement windows can be fixed or operable? The answer depends on your needs and the type of home that you want to build. It is better to consider these questions before making any step of the process.
Single-Tilt or Double-Tilt?
The type of window should be determined after you have several options. The curtain problem – when only one part of the window can be opened or closed – will not allow a rational decision. In this case, single-tilt windows are better choices than double ones, which would require extra work in a certain period of time.
Wooden or Vinyl Frames?
The frame of your windows is an important issue. It should not be too tight and it should be durable enough to withstand the weather conditions. Wooden frames are stronger, but they can’t be painted or repaired as well as vinyl ones. Also, some types of these windows are only available in wooden versions, which is why you need to take this into consideration. Check with the manufacturer before making any decision. Fixed or Operable?
Fixed windows are easier to install and maintain, which means you don’t have to deal with them as often. The only thing you have to remember is that they are not as energy-efficient as the movable ones. Fixed windows come in two basic types: the casement and the double-hung. Both of these types are available in a wide range of sizes and finishings, so if you can’t decide between them, choose the one that will suit your needs the best.
7 Crucial Aspects people Often Forget
- Choose the size: When choosing the size, most people are obsessed with the height of their windows. They forget that one window rarely has a single dimension. The width is also important, especially because you need to focus on other things than your ceiling.
- Durability: You will be using your windows for many years ahead, so make sure you choose a material that will last long enough to be worth its price tag.
- Energy efficiency: Is your home draft-free? An airtight house is one of the most important things to consider when looking for new windows.
- Comfort and color: You can’t sell the house with a different color, so choose the window that will blend well with your interior. The same goes for comfort – make sure you are comfortable living in it.
- Accessibility: Do you need easy access to your windows? If so, you probably will not be happy with slider windows.
- Maintenance: Cleaning windows is not a versatile activity. If you want to save some time and money on this, window treatments are your best friends. They can make cleaning much easier, so choose the one that will suit your needs the best.
- Environmental factors: Do you live in a windy area? The answer is pretty simple – double-hung windows are definitely your choice here. For sunny areas, fixed windows might be a better option for you as they block direct sunlight more efficiently than other window types.
Buy Your perfect Windows in 10 Simple Steps
yes, seriously — we understand how tough it can be to navigate the oversaturated market with marketing traps at every step. If you follow this guide — your chances to get a great deal that will suit YOUR needs, not the manufacturer’s or the salesperson’s interests.
Step 1: Choose the size.
Step 2: Durability & energy efficiency.
Step 3: Comfort & color.
Step 4: Accessibility & Maintenance (both cleaning and functional). Step 5: Environmental factors.
Step 6: Decide what types you need – Single-twist, double-twist, wooden frames or vinyl frames, fixed or operable.
Step 7: Choose the best-looking product for you.
Step 8: Warranty & Customer service & support.
Step 9: Compare prices & deals.
Step 10: Contact the manufacturer and buy your windows!
And finally, never forget the simple truth: you’ll pay way, WAY less attention to your window type in a month after purchasing them, and you’ll get used to it anyway. Don’t waste too many nerve cells and enjoy the process.
