Casement, awning, single-hung, double-hung and sliding windows are available in many shapes and sizes, including radius and geometric, and combination units. When choosing the type of a window, first consider practical factors such as how it opens, then consider aesthetic options such as how it will affect the curb appeal of your home. Picking the [...]
For life-long durability, choose solidly constructed frames with steel, reinforced sashes that prevent warping, and sloped sills to remove rainwater. Look for double fin mylar weather-stripping, double ventilation locks, and fusion-welded sash and frame. Are the windows custom manufactured for your specific home? Are the products American-Made?
If your home is located in a warmer, sunny climate, the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measurement will be more of a consideration. Consider heat-reflective Low E glass and insulating Argon Gas to not only block the sun's rays in the summer but to prevent heat loss in the winter.
Does the warranty cover air leaks, and broken seals and if so, for how long? Does the warranty cover labor and glass breakage? Is the company reputable and what recourse do you have if they go out of business? Do they carry liability insurance and are they licensed to work in your state? Do they [...]
In general, wood is more expensive than vinyl or aluminum, and may require more maintenance. The Window Design Group also offers different pricing scales within its window lines – from Custom and Economy, to more modest, Standard options. When it comes to budget, consider the long term value beyond the initial purchase price. Energy efficiency [...]
You've determined that price, energy efficiency, warranties and service are most important to you, for example. Next, develop a comparison checklist to determine which products and companies can provide the highest level at the lowest possible price. Our sales team will provide you with a full checklist that you can use that detail's all of [...]
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy designed to help you save money and protect the environment though energy efficient products and practices. The NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) is a third-party, non-profit organization that independently tests and certifies all ENERGY STAR qualified windows [...]
In addition to recommendations from industry experts, family and friends, do your own homework and check the label before you make a purchase. Look for credible, independent third-party endorsements such as Better Business Bureau, Angies List, AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association), NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) and the ENERGY STAR label. These organizations use carefully constructed [...]
If you're replacing windows because you're selling your house your priorities may differ. While beauty, maintenance-freedom, and energy savings is a common consideration, remember that when selling your home, vinyl windows recoup an average of 71% of the initial investment according to Remodeling Magazine's 2010-2011 Cost vs. Value Report, and can be an advantageous selling [...]
You will often hear contractors and manufacturers use the terms New Construction or Replacement (Retrofit) when discussing residential windows. While neither window must be used exclusively for the project after which they're named, each has specific advantages designed for these different installation methods. New Construction Windows: New construction windows typically have a nail fin. When [...]
