Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home

Windows have been undergoing a true technological revolution in recent years. Choices of styles, materials and performance have changed dramatically. If your house seems too small, or if you know your windows are adding to heating bills in the winter and air conditioning in summer, this could be one of the best home improvement investments you could make. Here are a few highlights of some of the newest ideas, but this is an area where you should take the time to find out what will perform best in your region. What's best in northern Minnesota probably isn't the best in Phoenix.

Styles:

In addition to "flat" windows (double-hung, sliding or casement, picture or awning), choose from bay, bow, box, round top, "greenhouse" windows, even sunrooms.

Low-E:

This is a term you must know. Double glazing ( two panes of glass with an air pocket between) greatly improves the insulating qualities of window. Triple glazed windows provide even more insulating power. But the latest development is "low-E," short for "low- emissive" glass. Although applied in several ways, the effect is the same. This microscopic- and coating reflects heat back into the house in winter and blocks it out in summer. Low-E can reduce heat loss from a double glazed window by 40 to 50%. There are various types of low-E glass, including those designed for warm climates where heat gain is the main problem.

Framing materials:

There is wood, aluminum and solid vinyl, plus combinations of the three. Woods may be clad with vinyl or aluminum, for example, to combine carefree maintenance with the natural insulating, low condensation properties of wood. Manufacturers tout many construction details for superior construction, ease of use, long life and easy cleaning.

Other features:

Blinds, pleated shades or rollup screens sandwiched between double glazed windows are becoming quite popular. In most recent years, sensors that close roof or awning window at the first sign of rain are being installed and brand-new homes. In addition, for areas such as seacoasts, corrosion resistant hardware is being widely used.

Sources:

http://www.naturallightsolutions.co.nz/
http://www.clearleadinc.com/site/natural-light.html
http://www.weather.com/partnerships/homedepot/natural-light.html
http://www.efficientwindows.org/lowe.cfm
http://www.askthebuilder.com/097_Low-E_Glass_-_It_Really_Works_.shtml