When It Comes to Window Replacement, Consider the Options
Jul 31, 2023Window replacement can have a substantial impact on improving the value of your home and quality of life. The marketplace has an abundance of materials, colors, and styles that can up the curb appeal of your home as well as provide energy savings.
From Wendy Cline, J&B Construction co-owner, here are some things to consider about parts of the window prior to your window replacement project.
Frames
J&B offers replacement windows in fiberglass, vinyl, and wood.
Fiberglass window frames are extremely strong. “An advantage is the frames can accommodate a larger pane of glass on a thinner frame affording a larger view. And though they are strong, fiberglass windows are also lightweight. It is a natural insulator and prevents unwanted heat transfer during the winter or summer,” Wendy said. “Therefore, your energy costs will be lower. Plus, fiberglass is also resistant to moisture, so it won’t rust, warp, fade, or harbor mildew or insects.”
Vinyl frames also provide energy efficiency and thermal performance. Optional upgrades to further enhance your windows’ energy efficiency can include insulated frames or extra panes with Argon gas fills. “Argon gas is an insulator and keeps the window closer to room temperature, resulting in the elimination of drafts as well as higher energy efficiency. Vinyl is also easy to care for, as it never has to be repainted, sanded, or refinished to stay looking great,” said Wendy. “It also hides surface scratches and nicks exceptionally well, so they’ll maintain their good looks for many years.”
Wood also is a popular choice for window replacement, as it is naturally insulative, making them very energy efficient. “Since wood is much denser than other window frame materials, it provides dependable thermal performance. Upgrading wood windows with additional energy saving features, like extra panes of glass, can make them exceptionally energy efficient,” she said. “Wood windows also can be made to look almost any way you can imagine. There are dozens of high-quality stains and finishes available, so finding a color that complements your home is easy.”
Glass
While there are many things to consider in window replacement, a key element is the glass.
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) glass coating protects the house from heat coming in from the sun in summer, but during winter, it blocks heat loss to the outside while reflecting heat back in. By reducing ultraviolet rays, it helps keep upholstery, carpeting, and drapes from fading.
Homeowners should also look at the rating from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which measures heat gain and loss through the U Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.
The U Factor measures insulation value – the heat from inside a room that can escape. This rating considers all parts of the window – the glass, frame, and sash.
The Solar Heat Gain (SHGC) number measures solar energy transmitted through the window. In other words, how well the window blocks heat from sunlight.
With both the U Factor and the SHGC number, the lower the number, the better insulation and greater performance.
“While clear glass is generally desired in window replacement, glass can also be tinted, frosted, or opaque, often with an embedded patten that is designed to be decorative as well as practical” Wendy said. “This can be a good choice for bathrooms or other areas of the house where privacy is desired.”
Grids
Customizing the look of windows is the role of grids (or grilles) between the glass or simulated divided lite windows. “The style of your home will help you decide what type of grid pattern you want on your windows,” said Wendy. “For example, a Colonial or Cape Cod style home typically has double hung windows, The grids for this style divide the windows into six panes separated by muntins in both the top and bottom panels. Other grid patterns can be customized for prairie style homes, craftsmen, and Tudor, to name a few.”
Screens
As with other window replacement choices, screens also have options. Aluminum screens to keep out insects are standard, but screens can also come with a finer mesh that allows for a clearer view.
Hardware
The finishing touch on windows is the hardware. “Many style options are available as well as colors. Some popular color choices are the classic white, taupe, brass, sating nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze,” she said.
Installation From a Trusted Team
At J&B Construction, we’re a third-generation family-owned and -operated business that’s served southeastern Wisconsin residents since 1958. During those 65 years, we’ve gained a reputation for outstanding work and committed customer service and we’d love an opportunity to show you why. To find out more about our replacement windows, installation, or any other home improvement service, contact J&B Construction today at 262-437-0537 and schedule a consultation at your home with a member of our team.
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