The windows in your home play an important role in keeping you comfortable as well as influencing the aesthetics of your home. The average life expectancy of windows is around 25 years, which is quite a long time. So, choosing the right windows for your home during your next window replacement project is an important function. If you don’t pay great attention to the features of the windows you select, you are likely to end up with windows for your home that you are not satisfied with, wasting both time and money. So, here are 5 steps that will help you choose the right replacement windows for your home.

Repair or Replace?

The first step in selecting the appropriate windows for your home is to examine your current windows and determine whether they need to be replaced or repaired. If the  frame of your window is still in good form even if the other components are broken, repair may be an option that can save you time and money. If the frame is broken or warped, the window is prone to fogging, or the window is more than 20 years old, it is best to replace the entire unit. If you are having a hard time identifying if your windows need a replacement or repair, talking to a professional window contractor may help clear up your options.

Select a Style

Although the window’s efficiency to save energy is important, you also have to keep in mind how the window’s appearance affects the overall aesthetic of your home. The best way to find out if a window would fit your home’s exterior is by thoroughly examining the architecture of your home. For example, colonial style homes often go well with double-hung windows and casement windows, while geometric windows are more suited for heritage homes. There are also further decorations that you can apply to your replacement windows like diamond grids and etched glass.

Select Frame Material

When it comes to frame materials, there are three main types, which are wood, aluminium and vinyl. When deciding which type of material would best fit your home, you have to consider the material’s price, how often you would have to maintain it and how it blends with your house’s exterior. Here is some information about these types that may help you choose the right material for your replacement windows. To start off, wood frames are classic, they can virtually go with any house because of the amount of colours they can come in, but they are quite expensive to buy and maintain, since they are prone to rotting. On the other hand, vinyl framed windows are more affordable because they are easy to maintain and can withstand termite and water damage. Furthermore, you can easily customize these windows without having the need to sand or paint them. Aluminium windows are almost identical to vinyl windows, but they are more unobtrusive, since they are thinner.

Select Glass Style and Glazing

There are many factors that you need to take into account when choosing the type of glass for your replacement windows. Some factors that are worth mentioning are the price, the climate of your area, the security features and how energy efficient the glass is. Oftentimes, people lean towards choosing dual or triple pane glass with gas filling and a low emissivity glazing.

Select a Trusted Window Company

Even though it is possible for a capable do it yourselfer to replace their own windows, it is always recommended to work with a professional  when it comes to a project that requires experience and skill such as a window replacement. By selecting the right window manufacturer and installer, you are putting yourself in the position to own windows that are long-lasting and are less likely to need constant maintenance. Moreover, if you choose to work with a professional, you are able to receive warranties that will protect your windows from any damages that they might sustain later on.

Every homeowner will eventually need to replace their windows. Window replacement is typically a 5-step process. These steps involve determining if your windows need to be replaced or repaired, selecting window and glass types, selecting the appropriate frame materials, choosing the right styles and working with a reputable window contractor. By following these procedures, you will encounter fewer obstacles and achieve the desired results.