Windows play a critical role in your home’s aesthetic, comfort and energy efficiency. They’re also your first line of defense against smoldering summer heat and cold air.
They’re made of durable materials that are resistant to rust and insect infestation. Additionally, they’re capable of reducing your energy bills by blocking out the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Casement windows
If you’re looking to add airflow and beauty to your home, casement windows are a great option. They’re hinged on the side and open outward with a crank, making them easy to clean from inside the house. They can also provide a good amount of ventilation, which is ideal for rooms that require more circulation such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Other window replacement options include sliding windows, which operate horizontally on a track and offer moderate ventilation. Picture windows, which don’t open, allow for a clear view of the landscape and are a popular choice for Lake Charles LA homes. Bay and bow windows are more elaborate, combining a fixed picture window with casement or double-hung windows on the sides.
Aluminum windows are corrosion-resistant and have slim profiles that complement modern architectural styles. Fiberglass is another excellent choice, offering both durability and a sleek appearance. Its resistance to swelling and rot makes it a good choice for commercial and residential spaces alike.
Awning windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward to create a unique, stylish appearance. They’re often used above sinks in kitchens and bathrooms, where they can provide ventilation during rainstorms. They also offer a great view of the outdoors and are a popular choice for homes with balconies.
Awnings are available in many different styles, such as double-hung and casement windows. They can be combined with other types of windows, such as bay and bow windows, to add depth and style to a room. They can also be used with a sliding door to add light and privacy to a bathroom or bedroom.
Look for Energy Star-certified windows, which meet the federal standards for energy efficiency. They include low-E glass coatings and argon gas insulation, which help to reduce energy costs. Other features of these windows include thermal breaks that limit heat and cold transfer. You can also choose triple-pane windows, which are more energy efficient than single-pane options.
Double-hung windows
Windows are a key component to a home’s energy efficiency, and if yours are old or damaged, you could be sending 25-30% of your heat or cool air out of them. Window replacement companies can help you upgrade to new, efficient windows that will keep your family comfortable and save you money on high utility bills.
Double-hung windows are a popular choice among homeowners. They feature two sashes that slide up and down, allowing for increased ventilation and accessibility. The sashes can also tilt in for easier cleaning. This window style is ideal for spaces on the second floor of a house, or in rooms where it is difficult to reach the exterior for cleaning.
Other window replacement options include bay and bow windows, which protrude from the exterior wall, creating a sense of space and providing multiple angles of view. They can be made from a combination of windows, including casement and double-hung windows. Jalousie windows feature horizontal glass slats that open and close like a Venetian blind, but they are not as airtight as other window types.
Energy-efficient windows
If you want to lower your energy bills and help protect the environment, consider purchasing Energy Star windows. These windows are designed to reduce heat transfer and air leakage, which makes them more efficient. They also feature strips of nonmetallic spacers between the window panes, lowering the window’s U-factor. You can choose double-pane or triple-pane windows, both of which are highly insulating. Triple-pane windows may contain krypton gas, which is even more insulating than argon but comes at a higher cost.
Other types of replacement windows that provide excellent energy efficiency are bay and bow windows. These are a great choice for homes with a contemporary or ultra-modern design and have large glass surfaces to maximize natural light.
Another energy-efficient option is a storm window, which can be added to your existing window frame to improve insulation without replacing the original frames or changing your home’s design. These windows feature an outer shell and interior sash that can be tinted to filter the sun’s harmful rays.