A Buying Guide For Replacement Windows

When buying replacement windows you need to consider many things. Regardless of the style and frame material you want, you must buy a quality replacement window. Window replacement experts suggest that one should look for replacement windows that have been verified by the relevant energy rating board. The council rates energy efficiency and certifies the quality of materials and installation.  Consider the quality of the window material and the reputation of the window company. Here are important considerations to make when buying replacement windows.

The Type of Replacement Window Glass

Choose the right type of replacement window glass that suits your climate. To get a good glass, you must be familiar with the vocabulary used by contractors and retailers. Examples of common window replacement glasses include double-glazed windows, gas-filled windows, warm-edge spacers, triple-paned windows and low-emissivity glass. Others are low-E 2 and low-E 3 glass, and high-performance glazing.  The double-glazed windows have two layered panes with a space between them that acts as an insulator. The gas-filled windows have inert gases that provide sound insulation as compared to a layer of air. It is advisable to choose a glass depending on your needs.

Energy Efficiency

It is imperative to consider energy efficiency when buying replacement windows. Check for an energy certification label from an energy conservation agency. Energy rating of replacement windows is done based on the u-factor, R-value and solar heat coefficient (SHGC). U-factor is a measure of how the window prevents heat from escaping.  U-factors range from 0.10 (the best) to 1.20 (the worst).  R-value factor is a measure of how the material can resist heat transfer through conduction. Measurements typically range from 0.9 and up, with a measurement of 3 or above being ideal. Solar heat gain coefficient indicates the ability of the window to block heat from the sun. It is measured in terms of the percentage of sunlight that enters the house as solar heat. Windows should typically be lower than 0.30 for SHGC.

Window Types

There are a few other things to consider before buying a replacement window to ensure you get exactly what you want.  There are different ways of window installation including casement windows, awning windows, sliding windows and fixed windows. Casement windows usually swing with a crank when opened. Cleaning them is easy, and they provide excellent ventilation. However, they are not appropriate for homes in high traffic areas. Unlike casement windows, awning windows are good at keeping out the rain when open. New awning windows are relatively airtight and have either single or double-paned glass.  Sliding windows slide back and forth like the sliding glass patio. Fixed windows are airtight replacement windows that don’t open.

Replacing windows helps to reduce energy costs. Despite the high costs involved, replacing windows saves money in the long run. Before choosing a replacement window, you should get the estimates of the energy costs you will save. Apart from saving on energy costs, quality replacement windows increase the value of your home, which is beneficial, should you decide to sell. At Mikita Door & Window we’re here to help you make the right decision on your next replacement windows. Give us a call at (516) 867-4100 or visit our showroom today!